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

Should you visit Brussels or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 colorful, multicultural, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Brussels and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Seattle?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Seattle than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Seattle is better known for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Seattle is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Seattle have great 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.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for theatre. However, Brussels is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Brussels is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Brussels and Seattle.

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).

Seattle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Seattle is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Beaches?

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

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Brussels to see the historical old town. 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Seattle?

Brussels is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Families?

Brussels is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Couples?

Brussels is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Brussels is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Brussels or Seattle Better for Students?

Brussels and Seattle are great places to visit for 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.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Brussels is renowned for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Brussels or Seattle a more walkable city?

Brussels and Seattle both are great 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.

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Seattle?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Seattle 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 Seattle?

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 city of Seattle offers shopping and museums. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brussels is in Europe and Seattle is in North America, 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 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Seattle?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Brussels or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Seattle. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Seattle. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Seattle. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Seattle. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Brussels usually receives less rain than Seattle. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Brussels during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Seattle. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Brussels