A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Faro vs. Antwerp for Nightlife, Old Town, Food, and Families

Should you visit Faro or Antwerp?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Antwerp, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Faro

Faro is a busy, active, and popular resort town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a vibrant, authentic, and genuine port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Faro or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp. Although Faro and Antwerp are popular destinations, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antwerp is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Faro attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Faro is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its historical sights and rich culture. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Faro different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Faro or Antwerp?

Faro
Antwerp

Antwerp is great for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Faro or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Faro
Antwerp

Antwerp is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Antwerp. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Faro
Antwerp

The vibe at night is excellent in both Faro and Antwerp.

Many people head to Faro for the nightlife scene. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Antwerp has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Resorts?

Faro
Antwerp

Faro is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Antwerp is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Faro is a perfect choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Antwerp is not a resort destination.


Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Faro
Antwerp

Faro is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Beaches?

Faro
Antwerp

Faro is very good for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Faro to enjoy the beach. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Faro
Antwerp

Antwerp is great for its historic old town. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its old town.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Many people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.


Is the Shopping Better in Faro or Antwerp?

Faro
Antwerp

Antwerp is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Antwerp. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Families?

Faro
Antwerp

Antwerp is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Faro
Antwerp

Faro and Antwerp are both nice to visit as a couple.

Faro is a nice destination for couples. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.


Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Faro
Antwerp

For backpackers, both Faro and Antwerp are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Faro. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Antwerp is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Students?

Faro
Antwerp

Antwerp is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro is not popular with students.

Antwerp is a great port city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Faro is not popular with students.

Is Faro or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Faro
Antwerp

Faro and Antwerp both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Faro offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Antwerp has a few public transit options. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.


Is Faro or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Faro
Antwerp

Antwerp is great for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its high level of walkability.

Antwerp is very walkable. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Faro Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Faro?

How long in Faro or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Faro and Antwerp. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Faro than in Antwerp. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Faro, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Faro 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 Antwerp.


  • How many days in Faro or Antwerp? Ideal Length of Stay
    Faro 2-5 
    Antwerp 1-3

One day in Faro or Antwerp?

In Faro, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Faro or Antwerp?

In Faro, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer.

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Faro or Antwerp?

Faro is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Antwerp. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Faro or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Faro. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The historical port city of Antwerp offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.


Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Faro?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Faro is €133, while the average daily cost in Antwerp is €123. 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 Faro and Antwerp in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Faro 75
    Antwerp 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Faro 150
    Antwerp 142
Compare Hotels in Faro and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in Faro or Antwerp? 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 Faro


Hotels in Antwerp


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: Faro Hotel Prices and Antwerp Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Faro 9.52
    Antwerp 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Faro

Also for Faro, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • ) Transfers airport Faro X Sevilla: $91
  • Airport Transfer from Faro to Albufeira: $65
  • Airport Transfer from Faro to Armação de Pêra: $81
  • Airport Transfer from Faro to Carvoeiro / Silves: $95
  • Airport Transfer from Faro to Lagos/Meia Praia: $110
  • Airport Transfer from Faro to Sagres: $175
  • Airport Transfers: $87
  • Airport transfer from Faro to Monte Gordo: $91
  • Algarve Private Airport Transfers : $87
  • Algarve Private Transfers: $51
  • Algarve: Private Transfer Service: $50
  • Faro Airport (Algarve) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Vilamoura Hotels or Address): $88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $272
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $174
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $162
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $140
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Faro or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and Faro 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
    Faro 36
    Antwerp 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Faro

For Faro, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Most Delicious Private Food Tour of 6 or 10 Tastings: $83
  • 3 Hours Classic Food Tour in Faro: $97
  • Authentic Portuguese Cooking Experience in Algarve: $162

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

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

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Faro 9.41
    Antwerp 8.21

Tours and Activities in Faro

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

  • Camera Obscura - Tavira Eye - Admission Ticket: $5.43
  • Faro Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.68
  • Lagos Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.69
  • Tavira Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $7.87
  • Faro Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.87
  • Algarve Life Sciences Center Museum Family Ticket: $13
  • Cork Factory Tour & Cork Shop: $18
  • Ria Formosa Sunset Boat Tour: $21
  • Eco Boat Tour in the Ria Formosa Lagoon from Faro: $22
  • 1 or 2 Hour Speed Boat Tour - Ria Formosa: $26
  • 2 Hours Boat Tour in Ria Formosa: $27
  • Tavira Route Boat Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Antwerp : $228
  • 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $31
  • 3-Hour Private Tour in Antwerp: $49
  • Antwerp : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $80
  • Antwerp : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $56
  • Antwerp Bike Tours: $35
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Antwerp Private Tour From Brussels: $423
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $244
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.05
  • Antwerp Shore Excursion and Bruges Private City Tour including Chocolate Tasting: $183
  • Antwerp by Night Private Walking Tour: $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Faro 3.13
    Antwerp 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Faro

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Faro:

  • Wine tastings, with Tour option - Authentic Algarve Flavours by Quinta da Tôr: $18
  • Visit to a Family Brewery in Loulé with Tasting: $27
  • Algarve Traditional Food and Wine Tasting: $48

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $61
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96


When comparing the travel costs between Faro and Antwerp, we can see that Faro 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Faro or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Faro and Antwerp, 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 Faro or Antwerp?

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 Faro or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Faro as well as Antwerp. Most visitors come to Faro for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Faro is a little warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Faro in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In the summer, Faro often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in July than Antwerp. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Faro 25°C (78°F) 
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Faro or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Faro because of the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In October, Faro is generally much warmer than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 20°C (68°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during autumn. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Faro usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Faro gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Faro 20°C (68°F) 
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Faro or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Faro during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Faro this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Faro is much warmer than Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Faro often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Faro 12°C (54°F) 
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Faro or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Antwerp. Many travelers come to Faro for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Faro is much warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Faro in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during spring. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Faro usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Faro 17°C (62°F) 
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Faro

Faro Antwerp
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 15°C (58°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)