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

Should you visit Inverness or Brussels?

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 Inverness and Brussels can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a local, historic, and cultural city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Inverness and Brussels: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Inverness or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels. Although Inverness and Brussels are popular destinations, Brussels has more sights and attractions for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Inverness attracts visitors for its small town charm. Inverness is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

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

How is Inverness different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Inverness
Brussels

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Inverness and Brussels.

Many visitors head to Inverness specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Inverness or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Inverness
Brussels

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Inverness and Brussels.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

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 Inverness or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Brussels

Both Inverness and Brussels are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

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 Inverness or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Inverness
Brussels

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

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

Inverness does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Brussels?

Inverness
Brussels

Brussels is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Brussels make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

Is Inverness or Brussels Better for Families?

Inverness
Brussels

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

Inverness is a family-friendly city. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Is Inverness or Brussels Better for Couples?

Inverness
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.


Is Inverness or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inverness
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

Is Inverness or Brussels Better for Students?

Inverness
Brussels

Brussels is a well-known place for students. However, Inverness is not popular with students.

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

Inverness is not popular with students.

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

Inverness
Brussels

Brussels is terrific for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.


Is Inverness or Brussels a more walkable city?

Inverness
Brussels

Inverness and Brussels both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Inverness is a very walkable city. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

Brussels is a very walkable destination. 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 Inverness Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Brussels?

In either Inverness or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Inverness because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Inverness, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Inverness. 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 Inverness. 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 Inverness 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 Inverness or Brussels? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Brussels 1-5

One day in Inverness or Brussels?

The city of Inverness offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Inverness or Brussels?

Inverness 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 Inverness, 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 Inverness or Brussels?

Inverness 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.

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 Inverness or Brussels?

Inverness 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.

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 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 Inverness?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, 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 Inverness and Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Brussels £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Brussels £124
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Brussels

Looking for a hotel in Inverness 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 Inverness


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: Inverness Hotel Prices and Brussels Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Brussels £14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623

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 Inverness or Brussels?

Prices for flights to both Brussels and Inverness 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
    Inverness £49
    Brussels £33

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.
    Inverness £44
    Brussels £20

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

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
    Inverness £23
    Brussels £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

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

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124

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 Inverness and Brussels, we can see that Inverness 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 Inverness would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Inverness 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 Inverness Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Inverness or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Inverness. When comparing the sizes of Inverness 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 Inverness 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 Inverness or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Brussels. Many visitors come to Inverness in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during summer. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Inverness usually receives less rain than Brussels. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Inverness or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Brussels. Most visitors come to Inverness for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Inverness is cooler than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Inverness 9°C (49°F) 
    Brussels 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Inverness are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Inverness because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. The weather in Inverness can be very cold. In the winter, Inverness is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Inverness in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during winter. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Inverness usually receives less rain than Brussels. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Inverness or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Inverness during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm are the main draw to Inverness this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

In April, Inverness is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 7°C (44°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Inverness 7°C (44°F) 
    Brussels 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Brussels and Inverness

Inverness Brussels
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in)