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

Should you visit Lisbon or Brussels?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Brussels? 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful 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.

Lisbon and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Brussels?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Lisbon different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific 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 Lisbon or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

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 Lisbon or Brussels Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. 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.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon is one of the most recognized in the world. 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 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 Lisbon or Brussels?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Lisbon and Brussels.

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.

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

Is Lisbon or Brussels Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Brussels.

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

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 Lisbon or Brussels Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Brussels make for a superb place to visit.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Lisbon or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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 Lisbon or Brussels Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Brussels are superb 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.

Brussels is very popular with students. 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 Lisbon or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find amazing public transit in both Lisbon and Brussels.

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.

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

Is Lisbon or Brussels a more walkable city?

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

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.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Brussels?

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

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

One day in Lisbon or Brussels?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Brussels. 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 Brussels?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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 Lisbon or Brussels?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Lisbon or Brussels?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Brussels. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In October, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Brussels. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Brussels. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. Lisbon is much warmer than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Brussels. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Lisbon is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Brussels. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Lisbon