A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Antwerp for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Interlaken or Antwerp?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Antwerp can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

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 food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp. Although Interlaken and Antwerp are popular destinations, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antwerp is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. 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 Interlaken different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Antwerp Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is very good for winter skiing. However, Antwerp is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Antwerp is not a skiing destination.

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

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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!

Is Interlaken or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Antwerp has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. 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.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Antwerp Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Antwerp?

Antwerp is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Antwerp Better for Families?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is one of the most popular family destinations. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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.

Is Interlaken or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Interlaken has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Antwerp is a good town for couples to visit. 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 Interlaken or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken and Antwerp are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. 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 Interlaken or Antwerp Better for Students?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Interlaken is well known for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Interlaken or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Antwerp?

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

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

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

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

One day in Interlaken or Antwerp?

In Interlaken, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the authentic port city of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. 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 Antwerp, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Interlaken or Antwerp?

In Interlaken, you'll find food and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. 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 port city.

Five days in Interlaken or Antwerp?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antwerp, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Interlaken. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp 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.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Interlaken and Antwerp, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken than you might in Antwerp.

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

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Antwerp in the Summer?

Both Antwerp and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In the summer, Interlaken is a little warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Antwerp. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Antwerp. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Interlaken is generally around the same temperature as Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or Antwerp in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Antwerp. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. Interlaken is around the same temperature as Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Interlaken is a little warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Interlaken