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

Should you visit Brussels or Versailles?

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 Versailles. 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Versailles

Versailles is a grand, ornate, and opulent palace. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums.

Brussels and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Brussels or Versailles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Versailles, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Versailles is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Versailles is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its long running history and its grand architecture. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)
La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brussels
Versailles

Versailles 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 Versailles that are not to be missed. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

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 Versailles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Brussels. 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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Brussels or Versailles Better for Nightlife?

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Brussels or Versailles Better for its Old Town?

Brussels
Versailles

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

Versailles does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Versailles?

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Brussels. 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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Brussels or Versailles Better for Families?

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is Brussels or Versailles Better for Couples?

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels and Versailles both great 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.

Versailles is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.


Is Brussels or Versailles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Brussels is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Brussels or Versailles Better for Students?

Brussels
Versailles

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

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

Versailles is not popular with students.

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

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace for its public transit.

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

Public transit in Versailles can get you to some places easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.


Is Brussels or Versailles a more walkable city?

Brussels
Versailles

Brussels and Versailles 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.

Versailles is a very walkable city. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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

Should I spend more time in Versailles or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Versailles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Brussels or Versailles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Brussels than Versailles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-2 days is enough time in Versailles.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Versailles. 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 Versailles. 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 Versailles 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.


  • How many days in Brussels or Versailles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brussels 1-5 
    Versailles 1-2

One day in Brussels or Versailles?

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, one day is sufficent for most.

The beautiful palace of Versailles offers museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Versailles?

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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


Five days in Brussels or Versailles?

Brussels, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Versailles is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Versailles?

Brussels is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Versailles is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This palace 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 Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Versailles or Brussels?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €137, while the average daily cost in Versailles is €79. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Brussels and Versailles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brussels 73
    Versailles 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brussels 146
    Versailles 118
Compare Hotels in Brussels and Versailles

Looking for a hotel in Brussels or Versailles? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Brussels


Hotels in Versailles


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Brussels Hotel Prices and Versailles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brussels 17
    Versailles 6.77
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    4.50
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $509
  • Brussels Airport (BRU) To Amsterdam: VIP Transfer: $499
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam by Luxury car: $289
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 SEATS): $283
  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam By Luxury car: $274
  • Private Direct Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $260
  • Private VIP Transfer to/from Bruges: $249
  • Brussels Private Transfer from Brussels city centre to Brussels Charleroi Airport (CRL): $233
  • Private Transfer From Brussels To Circuit SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS Belgium Luxury car : $193
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> SPA (1 to 8 PLACES): $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or Versailles?

Prices for flights to both Versailles and Brussels change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Brussels 38
    Versailles 8.25
Typical Food Prices in Brussels

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    4.60
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    4.75
  • Cheese
    5.60
  • Olives and Snacks
    6.98
  • Waffle
    3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $30
  • Chocolate and Beer Food Tour of Brussels: $43
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $60
  • Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local: $90
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $107
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $112
  • The 10 Tastings of Brussels With Locals: PRIVATE Food Tour (B-Corp certified): $159
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $165
  • Brussels Private Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie : $194

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brussels 23
    Versailles 29

Tours and Activities in Brussels

Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beer Tasting Tour in Brussels: $24
  • Brussels Walking Tour with Waffle Tasting: History and Delights: $23
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Christmas Gems of Brussels - Walking Tour: $264
  • 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in the templar village of Lissewege: $76
  • 3 Hour Private Bike Tour in Brussels: $201
  • 3 hours Belgian Truffles and Pastries Experience: $71
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $276
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99

Tours and Activities in Versailles

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Versailles.

  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $62
  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $217
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $265

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brussels 13
    Versailles 12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    10
  • Beer
    6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $18
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


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

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


Which is Bigger, Brussels or Versailles?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

Both Versailles and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Versailles in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Versailles fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Versailles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Versailles. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Versailles. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brussels 18°C (65°F) 
    Versailles 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Versailles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Versailles. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Versailles because of the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Versailles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Versailles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Versailles during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Versailles. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brussels 12°C (54°F) 
    Versailles 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Versailles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Versailles. The winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Versailles this time of year.

It's quite cold in Versailles in the winter. The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In January, Brussels is generally cooler than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Versailles. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Versailles. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brussels 3°C (38°F) 
    Versailles 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Versailles in the Spring?

Both Versailles and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Versailles for the natural beauty.

Brussels is cooler than Versailles in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Versailles fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Versailles during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Versailles. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brussels 10°C (49°F) 
    Versailles 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Versailles and Brussels

Brussels Versailles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)