A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Brussels for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Edinburgh or Brussels?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Brussels can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming, character-filled, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Edinburgh is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for live music, shopping, and museums. See Edinburgh travel costs.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Brussels travel costs.

Edinburgh and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Brussels?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Brussels attracts visitors for its food, shopping, and big city activities. Edinburgh is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Edinburgh different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh that are not to be missed. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Brussels Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for theatre. However, Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Brussels is not a theatre destination.

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

Brussels is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh or Brussels Better for Music?

Edinburgh is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh is a world class music destination. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Brussels?

Brussels is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels More Beautiful?

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

Edinburgh is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It has a long history and a lot of architectural beauty. The weather may be the most challenging part of a visit to Edinburgh.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Brussels are very good to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Brussels are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Many 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.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels Better for Students?

Both Edinburgh and Brussels are very good destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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.

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

Brussels is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Brussels can take you anywhere. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Brussels a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Brussels?

In either Edinburgh or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Edinburgh than Brussels. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Brussels?

The beautiful city of Edinburgh offers theater and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

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.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Brussels?

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

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.

Five days in Edinburgh or Brussels?

Edinburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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.

A week in Edinburgh or Brussels?

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edinburgh and Brussels, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Brussels?

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 Edinburgh or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Brussels. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Edinburgh is cooler than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Brussels. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. Edinburgh can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Brussels. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In April, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Brussels. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Edinburgh