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

Should you visit Hanoi 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 Hanoi 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.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a historical, fascinating, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Brussels. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hanoi is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Hanoi different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hanoi 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 Hanoi that are not to be missed. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

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 Hanoi or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Hanoi and Brussels.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hanoi. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Brussels has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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).

Is Hanoi or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Hanoi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

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 Hanoi or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi 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 Hanoi is one of the most recognized in the world. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

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 Hanoi or Brussels?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Brussels and Hanoi.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. 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.

Is Hanoi or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Is Hanoi or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Hanoi is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Is Hanoi or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Hanoi is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

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 Hanoi or Brussels Better for Students?

Hanoi and Brussels are very good places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

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

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

Brussels is renowned for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Hanoi or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking 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.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Brussels?

In either Hanoi or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

One day in Hanoi or Brussels?

Hanoi is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Brussels, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hanoi or Brussels?

Hanoi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hanoi or Brussels?

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

Brussels is a fun place to experience. In Brussels, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Brussels?

Hanoi 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic big city of Brussels. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hanoi and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hanoi is in Asia and Brussels is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Hanoi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hanoi 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 Hanoi.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Brussels?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi 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 Hanoi or Brussels?

Brussels has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hanoi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Brussels. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Should I visit Hanoi or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Hanoi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Hanoi is much warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Brussels. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Brussels. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. 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. In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Brussels. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Brussels. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Brussels. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Hanoi