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

Should you visit Dundee or Brussels?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Dundee or Brussels? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Dundee

Dundee is a coastal, cultural, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dundee and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Dundee or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Dundee, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more touristy than Dundee and is known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Dundee is popular for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design.

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

How is Dundee different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels and Dundee. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dundee or Brussels?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Dundee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On the waterfront you'll find a couple of nautical museums such as RRS Discovery, and HM Frigate Unicorn. Other museums and sights include V&A Dundee, Tay Rail Bridge, Camperdown Wildlife Centre, and Glamis Castle.


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

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Dundee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

Is Dundee or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Dundee
Brussels

Both Dundee and Brussels are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dundee. The vibrant student population heavily influences the city's nightlife. There are a number of clubs and bars where you can hang out late into the night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Brussels. 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 Dundee or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Dundee does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dundee or Brussels?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Dundee is not a good city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Dundee has some nice offerings. There are shopping centers and a few independent shops that are worth checking out. Head to Overgate Shopping Centre for the standard brands or Dundee's Farmer's Market for some local produce.

Is Dundee or Brussels Better for Families?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Dundee is a family-friendly city. Head to the Dundee Science Center or check out Discovery Point. There's also the Dundee Treasure Trail as well as climbing walls and other outdoor activities for when the weather's nice.

Is Dundee or Brussels Better for Couples?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Dundee as a couple's destination. The coastal city has some nice outdoor spaces and interesting restaurants that couples can enjoy.


Is Dundee or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Dundee or Brussels Better for Students?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for students. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Plenty of students visit Dundee. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

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

Dundee
Brussels

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

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

Dundee has some public transit options. The city has a public bus system.


Is Dundee or Brussels a more walkable city?

Dundee
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Dundee is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walks through the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Dundee?

How long in Dundee or Brussels?

In either Dundee or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Dundee because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Dundee, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Dundee 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 Dundee or Brussels? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dundee 1-2 
    Brussels 1-5

One day in Dundee or Brussels?

The city of Dundee offers nightlife and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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.

A weekend in Dundee or Brussels?

Dundee 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dundee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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.


Five days in Dundee or Brussels?

Dundee 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.

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.

A week in Dundee or Brussels?

Dundee is a great place to explore. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the multicultural 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Brussels or Dundee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dundee is £234, while the average daily cost in Brussels is £117. 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 Dundee and Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dundee £149
    Brussels £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dundee £298
    Brussels £124
Compare Hotels in Dundee and Brussels

Looking for a hotel in Dundee or Brussels? 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 Dundee


Hotels in Brussels


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: Dundee Hotel Prices and Brussels Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dundee £16
    Brussels £14

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

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


  • Subway Pass
    £3.85
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    £6.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Brussels Airport: Transfer to/from Gent Sint Pieters Station: $11
  • Airport Transfer to/from Lille City Center: $16
  • Brussels to Brussels Airport (BRU) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Brussels to Ostend Airport (OST) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Brussels City to Brussels Airport(BRU): $44
  • Private One-way from Brussels Transfer To Brussels Airport: $45
  • Transfer to Brussels National Airport: $58
  • Airport Arrivals Private Transfer to the City: $60
  • Arrival Private Transfer Brussels Train Station to Brussels by Luxury Car or Van: $68
  • VIP Transfer between City/ Airport and Ghent: $70
  • Airport transfers from Brussels to Zaventem Brussels airport by luxury car: $74
  • Brussels Zaventem Airport Private Transfer from/to Brussels: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Dundee or Brussels?

Prices for flights to both Brussels and Dundee 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
    Dundee £47
    Brussels £33
Typical Food Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of dining costs in Dundee are as follows:


  • Moroccan Sandwich
    £2.70
  • Drinks and Scottish Shortbread at Discovery
    £4.70
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    £8.80

Typical Food Prices in Brussels

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


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    £3.94
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    £4.06
  • Cheese
    £4.79
  • Olives and Snacks
    £5.97
  • Waffle
    £2.57

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: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $29
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $61
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $106
  • Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $130
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $137
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $163

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dundee £106
    Brussels £20
Typical Entertainment Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Dundee are as follows:


  • Newspaper
    £0.85

Tours and Activities in Dundee

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dundee are as follows:

  • Skip-the-Line: Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $6.36
  • Made in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Dundee Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Boat Seafari Adventure: $34
  • Original Dundee Photoshoot Tour: $83

Tours and Activities in Brussels

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Brussels - by Legends: $3.26
  • Free Tour of Brussels in Italian (with booking fee): $3.26
  • The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels: $3.26
  • BELvue Belgium History Museum Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Museum Halle Gate Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dundee £13
    Brussels £11

Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    £8.56
  • Beer
    £5.13

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $17
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


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


Which is Bigger, Dundee or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dundee. When comparing the sizes of Dundee and Brussels, 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 Dundee or Brussels?

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 Dundee or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dundee and Brussels. Most visitors come to Dundee for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Dundee is cooler than Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Dundee averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Dundee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during summer. Dundee gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dundee usually receives less rain than Brussels. Dundee gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dundee 14°C (58°F) 
    Brussels 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dundee as well as Brussels. The autumn months attract visitors to Dundee because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In the autumn, Dundee is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dundee in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Dundee often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Dundee gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Dundee gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dundee 10°C (49°F) 
    Brussels 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Dundee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dundee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. It's quite cold in Dundee in the winter. In January, Dundee is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 3°C (38°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Dundee usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Dundee gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dundee usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Dundee gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dundee 3°C (38°F) 
    Brussels 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Dundee during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dundee for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city.

Dundee is cooler than Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Dundee averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Dundee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Dundee gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Dundee gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dundee 7°C (45°F) 
    Brussels 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Brussels and Dundee

Dundee Brussels
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in)