A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Brussels or Paris?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Paris. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Brussels travel costs.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of Paris is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Paris travel costs.

Brussels and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Brussels, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is known for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Brussels different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paris and Brussels. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brussels or Paris?

Paris is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is renowned for theatre. However, Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Brussels or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Paris?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Paris and Brussels.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Known for shopping, Paris draws large crowds to its stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Is Brussels or Paris More Beautiful?

Paris is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Paris is one of the main draws. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Many backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Brussels is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brussels and Paris.

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit in Paris is top-notch. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Brussels or Paris a more walkable city?

Brussels and Paris both are superb when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Paris?

Both Brussels and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Brussels. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Brussels. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Brussels if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paris.

One day in Brussels or Paris?

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The beautiful city of Paris offers shopping and museums. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Paris?

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the multicultural big city of Brussels. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Brussels would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brussels and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Brussels.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Brussels Expensive? and Is Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Paris, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Brussels or Paris?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Brussels or Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Paris. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Paris. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Paris during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Paris. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Paris. Many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Brussels is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Paris. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Brussels is cooler than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Paris during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Paris. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Brussels