A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Brussels or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua. 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 multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Brussels travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a natural, world-renowned, and diverse town. Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Rotorua travel costs.

Brussels and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Rotorua?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Rotorua. Brussels is bigger than Rotorua, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Rotorua is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Rotorua is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. 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 Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Rotorua have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Rotorua offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Brussels and Rotorua.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Rotorua has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Brussels or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Rotorua.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Rotorua has a few options to choose from. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Brussels or Rotorua Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Rotorua. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Rotorua?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Brussels or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Rotorua is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua 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, Rotorua is very family-friendly. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

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 Rotorua Better for Couples?

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

Rotorua is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

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 Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Rotorua is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Rotorua Better for Students?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Brussels or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Rotorua. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

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

One day in Brussels or Rotorua?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The beautiful town of Rotorua offers food and shopping. 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 Rotorua?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

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

Five days in Brussels or Rotorua?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Rotorua is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Rotorua, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Rotorua much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brussels is in Europe and Rotorua is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Rotorua would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rotorua 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels than you might in Rotorua.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Rotorua?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Rotorua, 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 Rotorua?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rotorua is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Brussels has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Brussels or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Rotorua. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Brussels is generally much warmer than Rotoruain January. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Rotoruain January. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

Brussels is cooler than Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Rotoruain April. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Brussels during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rotorua for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Rotoruain July. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Rotorua in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Rotorua. Many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rotorua in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Brussels is generally much colder than Rotoruain October. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Rotoruain October. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Brussels