A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Positano for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Brussels or Positano?

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 Positano. 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 historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Brussels and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Brussels than Positano, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Brussels is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Positano is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Positano 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 Positano?

Brussels is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. 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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano 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 Positano, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Brussels is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is renowned for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Positano for its luxury resorts. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a Mediterranean village with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Positano has a few snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is a good destination for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Positano offers a nice beach destination. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Positano is one of the most recognized in the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

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.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Positano?

Brussels is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for shopping.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. 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.

Positano is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for Families?

Brussels is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brussels. 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.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for Couples?

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

Positano is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon 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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Brussels or Positano Better for Students?

Brussels is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its public transit.

Brussels has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Brussels or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Positano on foot is easy. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Positano?

Both Brussels and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Positano 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 Brussels.

One day in Brussels or Positano?

Brussels is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Positano?

Brussels is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Positano is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this Mediterranean village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Positano?

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, 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 Positano?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Positano is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Positano, we can see that Positano 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 Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano 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 Positano Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Positano?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In July, Brussels is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Positano, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Positano. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Positano. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Positano. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Brussels is cooler than Positano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Positano during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Positano. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Positano in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Positano. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Positano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Positano averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Positano. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Brussels is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Positano during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives less rain than Positano. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Positano and Brussels