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

Should you visit Leiden or Brussels?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Leiden and Brussels can help you decide which place is right for you.

Leiden

Leiden is a historic, cultural, and scholarly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Leiden travel costs.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural 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. See Brussels travel costs.

Leiden and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leiden or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Leiden. Brussels is bigger than Leiden, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Leiden is well known for its many museums and renowned university. 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)

How is Leiden different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Brussels and Leiden.

Many visitors head to Leiden specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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

Both Leiden and Brussels offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Leiden has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

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 Leiden or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Both Leiden and Brussels have notable vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Leiden. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Leiden or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Leiden does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Leiden does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Leiden or Brussels?

Brussels is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Leiden or Brussels Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Leiden or Brussels.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Leiden. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

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 Leiden or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Brussels makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Leiden is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Leiden or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Leiden or Brussels Better for Students?

Both Leiden and Brussels are high quality destinations for students.

Leiden is very popular with students. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

Brussels is a great city to visit as a student. 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 Leiden or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Brussels has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Leiden or Brussels a more walkable city?

Leiden and Brussels are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Leiden is a very walkable destination. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Leiden?

How long in Leiden or Brussels?

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

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Leiden. 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 Leiden. 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 Leiden 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.

One day in Leiden or Brussels?

The city of Leiden offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Leiden or Brussels?

Leiden is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Leiden, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Leiden or Brussels?

Leiden is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Leiden or Brussels?

Leiden is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the multicultural big city of Brussels. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Leiden 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 Leiden Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Leiden or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Leiden 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 Leiden 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 Leiden or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Leiden during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Leiden in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Leiden is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Leiden in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Leiden. In the summer, Leiden often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Leiden gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Leiden or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Leiden and Brussels. Most visitors come to Leiden for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Leiden is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 11°C (51°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Leiden usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Leiden gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Leiden usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Leiden gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Leiden or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Leiden as well as Brussels. The winter months attract visitors to Leiden because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. The weather in Leiden can be very cold. Leiden is much colder than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Leiden averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Leiden often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Leiden gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Leiden usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Brussels. Leiden gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Leiden are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Leiden is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Leiden in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Leiden usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Leiden gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Leiden usually receives less rain than Brussels. Leiden gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Leiden