A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Brussels for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food and hiking.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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 Lake District National Park or Brussels?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Brussels than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Brussels is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

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

How is Lake District National Park different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Brussels?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Brussels both to be excellent destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Lake District National Park is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Brussels?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Both Lake District National Park and Brussels are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Lake District National Park and Brussels both excellent destinations for a couple.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Lake District National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lake District National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Many 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 Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.


Is Lake District National Park or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Brussels a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Brussels

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Brussels?

In either Lake District National Park or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Brussels? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Brussels 1-5

One day in Lake District National Park or Brussels?

The beautiful national park of Lake District National Park 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.

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Brussels?

Lake District National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Brussels for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Brussels?

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lake District National Park or Brussels?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.

Brussels, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


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


Which place is cheaper, Brussels or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, 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 Lake District National Park and Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Brussels £63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Brussels £126
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Brussels

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Brussels £14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $43
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    £3.86
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    £6.86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • VIP Transfer between Brussels Airport (BRU) and Antwerp: $245
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $174
  • Private Transfert from Bruges to Brussels Airport By Business car: $163
  • Private Transfers Between Brussels Airport and the City: $106
  • Private Transfer: Brussels to Brussels Airport BRU by Luxury Van: $86
  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Luxembourg with Luxury car: $233
  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $499
  • Private Transfer from Brussels hotels to Zeebrugge Cruise Port: $143
  • Private Transfer from Brussels City to Brussels Airport(BRU): $44
  • Private Transfer from Brussels City Hotels to IJmuiden Port: $141
  • Private Transfer from Brussels Airport to Bruges By Business car: $136
  • Private Transfer from Brussels Airport or city to Charleroi By Luxury car: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Brussels?

Prices for flights to both Brussels and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    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
    £3.95
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    £4.07
  • Cheese
    £4.80
  • Olives and Snacks
    £5.99
  • 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
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $111
  • Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $130
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $162
  • Brussels Private Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie : $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Brussels £20

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $139

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
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Brussel: $33
  • 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $272
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99
  • Antwerp Sightseeing Tour from Brussels : $48
  • Architecture Tour of Brussels: $27
  • Artistic Bruges on a Private Tour with a local: $71
  • Atomium: In App Audio Tour+Ticket (ENG): $18
  • Beer Tasting Experience in Brussels: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    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
    £8.58
  • Beer
    £5.15

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Brussels in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Lake District National Park is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Brussels. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Brussels 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Brussels in the Autumn?

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

In October, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Brussels. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Brussels 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Brussels. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Brussels. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Brussels 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Brussels in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Lake District National Park is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Brussels. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Brussels 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Brussels and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Brussels
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in)