A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Tromso for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Brussels or Tromso?

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 Tromso. 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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Brussels travel costs.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Tromso is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Tromso travel costs.

Brussels and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Tromso?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Tromso. Brussels is bigger than Tromso, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Tromso is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. 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 Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

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

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).

Tromso has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Brussels or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Tromso has a few options to choose from. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Brussels or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Tromso Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tromso. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Tromso?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Brussels or Tromso More Beautiful?

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

The famous beauty of Tromso is one of the main draws. It's surrounding Arctic landscape includes fjords and snow-topped mountains.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Tromso Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Tromso are very good family-friendly destinations.

Brussels is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tromso is very family-friendly. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Is Brussels or Tromso Better for Couples?

Brussels and Tromso both very good destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Tromso is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Brussels or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 backpackers visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Brussels or Tromso Better for Students?

Brussels is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for 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.

Tromso is a good city to visit for students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

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

Brussels is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Brussels or Tromso a more walkable city?

Brussels and Tromso both are very good 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.

Tromso is a very walkable city. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Tromso?

Both Brussels and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Tromso. 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 Tromso. 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 Tromso 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 Tromso?

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. 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 Tromso?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Tromso is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Tromso is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tromso, 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 Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of Brussels. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Tromso is a great place to explore. 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 Tromso has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Tromso, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Tromso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tromso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tromso 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 Tromso.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Tromso?

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

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Tromso, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Tromso. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Tromso. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Tromso. The autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the autumn. Brussels is much warmer than Tromso in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Tromso. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Tromso. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Tromso for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In the winter, Brussels is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Tromso averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Tromso in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Tromso can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Brussels is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Tromso during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tromso. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Brussels