A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Antwerp for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Antwerp. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

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.

Isle of Skye and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp. Although Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. 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 Isle of Skye different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Antwerp is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Antwerp. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Antwerp is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Antwerp has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Isle of Skye is well known for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Antwerp is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Isle of Skye is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Antwerp is terrific for shopping. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Both Isle of Skye and Antwerp are nice family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. 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 Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Isle of Skye is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Antwerp is a good island 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 Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Isle of Skye is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isle of Skye is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Antwerp Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Antwerp is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Many students visit Antwerp. 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.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Antwerp is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Antwerp has some 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Antwerp

Antwerp is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

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

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


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

One day in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Antwerp, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant port city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. 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 Isle of Skye has to offer.

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Antwerp. 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. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.


Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Antwerp is £105. 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 Isle of Skye and Antwerp in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Antwerp £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Antwerp £122
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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: Antwerp Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Antwerp £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73
  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Antwerp £34

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.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Antwerp £7.03

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

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 : $229
  • 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $35
  • 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: $425
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $245
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp Shore Excursion and Bruges Private City Tour including Chocolate Tasting: $183

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Antwerp £15

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: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96


When comparing the travel costs between Isle of Skye and Antwerp, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Antwerp in the Summer?

Both Antwerp and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is cooler than Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Antwerp. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Antwerp. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Antwerp. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Antwerp in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Antwerp. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye is a little warmer than Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Antwerp. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is cooler than Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Antwerp
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)