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

Should you visit Brussels or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver. 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. 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.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a scenic, diverse, and friendly city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Vancouver travel costs.

Brussels and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Vancouver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Brussels, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Vancouver is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is known for its historical sights. Vancouver is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vancouver 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 Vancouver that are not to be missed. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Brussels and Vancouver.

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).

Vancouver has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Brussels or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

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

Vancouver is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

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 Vancouver Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Vancouver?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Vancouver 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, Vancouver draws large crowds to its stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Is Brussels or Vancouver More Beautiful?

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

Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Vancouver Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Vancouver are excellent 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, Vancouver is very family-friendly. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Brussels or Vancouver Better for Couples?

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

Vancouver is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Vancouver are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Many backpackers visit Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Is Brussels or Vancouver Better for Students?

Brussels and Vancouver are excellent 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.

Vancouver is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Is Brussels or Vancouver 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 Vancouver.

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

Public transit in Vancouver is top-notch. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Is Brussels or Vancouver a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Vancouver on foot is easy. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Vancouver?

In either Brussels or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Vancouver has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vancouver than Brussels. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver 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 Vancouver.

One day in Brussels or Vancouver?

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Vancouver 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 Eco Tours in Canada, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Vancouver, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Brussels is in Europe and Vancouver is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 80% larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Vancouver, 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 Vancouver?

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 Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver 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 hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Vancouver in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Vancouver fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Vancouver, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Vancouver. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Vancouver. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Vancouver in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Vancouver. 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 Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Vancouver averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Vancouver during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Vancouver in the Winter?

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

Vancouver can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In January, Brussels is generally cooler than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Vancouver. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Vancouver. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Vancouver in the Spring?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Vancouver in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Vancouver fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. In April, Brussels usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Brussels