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

Should you visit Liverpool 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 Liverpool 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.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a historic, fun-filled, and diverse port city. It's also known for live music, shopping, and museums.

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.

Liverpool and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Liverpool or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Liverpool. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Liverpool attracts visitors for its theatre productions, nightlife, and music. Liverpool is famous for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." 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 Liverpool different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Liverpool. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

Is Liverpool or Brussels Better for Theater?

Liverpool is well known for theatre. However, Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Brussels is not a theatre destination.

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

Brussels is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Brussels. 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).

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Liverpool or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Liverpool is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

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 Liverpool or Brussels Better for Music?

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

Liverpool is a world class music destination. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is well known for its old town. However, Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Brussels?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Liverpool 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 Liverpool. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

Is Liverpool or Brussels Better for Families?

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

Liverpool is a very kid-friendly port city. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

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 Liverpool or Brussels Better for Couples?

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

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.

Liverpool is a good port city for couples to visit. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.

Is Liverpool or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is well known for backpackers. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Is Liverpool or Brussels Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Liverpool. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

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

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

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

While Liverpool offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Is Liverpool or Brussels a more walkable city?

Liverpool and Brussels both are very good when exploring on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable port city.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Brussels?

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

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Liverpool. 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 Liverpool. 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 Liverpool 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 Liverpool or Brussels?

The port city of Liverpool offers theater and nightlife. 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.

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Brussels?

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

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Liverpool or Brussels?

Liverpool is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music 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.

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Liverpool or Brussels?

Liverpool is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Liverpool and Brussels, we can see that Liverpool is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Brussels would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brussels 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 Liverpool would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Liverpool than you might in Brussels.

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

Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Liverpool. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool 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 Liverpool 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 Liverpool or Brussels in the Summer?

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

In July, Liverpool is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 15°C (60°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during summer. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Brussels. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Liverpool or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Liverpool during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Liverpool for the shopping scene and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in October than Brussels. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Liverpool or Brussels in the Winter?

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

Brussels can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Liverpool is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Liverpool in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Liverpool or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Brussels. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In April, Liverpool is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 8°C (47°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Liverpool often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Liverpool