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

Should you visit Kyoto or Brussels?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kyoto and Brussels can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a fascinating, traditional, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Brussels?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Brussels than Kyoto. While Kyoto is larger than Brussels, Brussels has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Kyoto attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Kyoto is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. 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)

How is Kyoto different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kyoto is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kyoto that are not to be missed. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Is the Food Better in Kyoto or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kyoto. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

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 Kyoto or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Brussels has a better nightlife scene.

Kyoto has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Kyoto or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Kyoto is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Brussels?

Brussels is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Kyoto or Brussels Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Brussels are very good to visit with kids.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brussels. 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.

Is Kyoto or Brussels Better for Couples?

Kyoto is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Kyoto or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Brussels are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kyoto is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Kyoto or Brussels Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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

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

Brussels is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Is Kyoto or Brussels a more walkable city?

Kyoto is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Kyoto on foot is easy. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Brussels?

In either Kyoto or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Kyoto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Brussels if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kyoto.

One day in Kyoto or Brussels?

The beautiful city of Kyoto offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Kyoto or Brussels?

Kyoto 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kyoto, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Kyoto or Brussels?

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kyoto or Brussels?

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kyoto and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kyoto is in Asia and Brussels is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels than you might in Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Brussels?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto 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 Kyoto 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 Kyoto or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 27°C (81°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Kyoto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during summer. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Brussels. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Kyoto during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Kyoto is a little warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in October than Brussels. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Brussels. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Kyoto is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kyoto usually receives less rain than Brussels. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Brussels. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In April, Kyoto is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 14°C (58°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Brussels. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Kyoto