A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Antwerp for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Lisbon or Antwerp?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Antwerp? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Antwerp are roughly the same size, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Lisbon different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Antwerp?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is the Food Better in Lisbon or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Lisbon or Antwerp Better for Music?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Antwerp Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Antwerp?

Shoppers can find a variety of world-class stores in both Lisbon and Antwerp.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Lisbon or Antwerp Better for Families?

Lisbon is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. 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 Lisbon or Antwerp Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Antwerp is a good city 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 Lisbon or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Antwerp Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Antwerp are great destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. 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.

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Lisbon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Is Lisbon or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Lisbon on foot is easy. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Antwerp. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Antwerp. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Antwerp 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Antwerp?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Antwerp?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Antwerp 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 Lisbon or Antwerp?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Antwerp. This port 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Antwerp?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Antwerp in the Summer?

Both Antwerp and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Antwerp. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Antwerp. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Lisbon is much warmer than Antwerp in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Antwerp. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Antwerp in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Antwerp. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Antwerp can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Antwerp averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the activities around the city.

In April, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Lisbon