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

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Brussels?

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 Brussels. 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 diverse, dramatic, and scenic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Brussels: 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
  • Big city activities


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels. Although Isle of Skye and Brussels are both popular with visitors, Brussels has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brussels is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

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

How is Isle of Skye different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels 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 Brussels?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Brussels 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 Brussels. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Isle of Skye and Brussels.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Brussels. 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 Isle of Skye or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Brussels is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Isle of Skye is well known for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for it's beautiful 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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.


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

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Brussels 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 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Brussels Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Isle of Skye is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Isle of Skye is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Brussels?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Brussels is terrific for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Brussels. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Brussels Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Brussels is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. 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.

Is Isle of Skye or Brussels Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Isle of Skye and Brussels both excellent destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

Isle of Skye and Brussels are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

Brussels is a great island 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.


Is Isle of Skye or Brussels Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

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

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye
Brussels

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

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 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 Brussels a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Brussels

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

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.


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

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

How long in Isle of Skye or Brussels?

In either Isle of Skye or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Brussels has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Brussels than Isle of Skye. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Brussels? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Brussels 1-5

One day in Isle of Skye or Brussels?

The beautiful island of Isle of Skye offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Brussels?

Isle of Skye is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels 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 Brussels?

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Isle of Skye or Brussels?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Brussels 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Brussels 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 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 Isle of Skye and Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Brussels £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Brussels £124
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Brussels

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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: Brussels Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Brussels £14

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)
    £6.84

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • VIP Transfer between Brussels Airport (BRU) and Antwerp: $130
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Brussels HTL-APT(BRU): $81
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Transfer Brussels Airport -> Brussels MB S-CLASS 3 PAX: $155
  • TRANSFER FROM/TO BRUSSELS AIRPORT <-> BRUSSELS CITY (Max. 6 pax) : $120
  • Shuttle Transfer Brussels Gare du Midi <-> Ghent (1 to 8 PLACES): $59
  • Private transfer on arrival from Brussels Airport to Ghent by luxury car : $118
  • Private Transfers Between Brussels Airport and the City: $109
  • Private Transfer from/to Brussels Zaventem Airport: $94
  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam By Luxury car: $274
  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $509

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

Prices for flights to both Brussels 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
    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
    £3.93
  • 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: $29
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $30
  • Chocolate and Beer Food Tour of Brussels: $43
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $60
  • Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local: $90
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $107
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $112
  • The 10 Tastings of Brussels With Locals: PRIVATE Food Tour (B-Corp certified): $159
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $165
  • Brussels Private Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie : $194

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Brussels £20

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: $231

Tours and Activities in Brussels

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

  • Beer Tasting Tour in Brussels: $24
  • Brussels Walking Tour with Waffle Tasting: History and Delights: $23
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Christmas Gems of Brussels - Walking Tour: $264
  • 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in the templar village of Lissewege: $76
  • 3 Hour Private Bike Tour in Brussels: $201
  • 3 hours Belgian Truffles and Pastries Experience: $71
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $276
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Brussels £11

Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £8.55
  • Beer
    £5.13

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $18
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


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


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Brussels. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Brussels 18°C (65°F)

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

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

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 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 Brussels. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Brussels. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 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 Brussels. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

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

Isle of Skye is cooler than Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Brussels 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Brussels and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Brussels
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in)