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

Should you visit Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a scenic, serene, and peaceful national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Loch Lomond National Park and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Brussels than Loch Lomond National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Brussels is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Loch Lomond National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Brussels is more touristy than Loch Lomond National Park and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Loch Lomond National Park is well known for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

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

How is Loch Lomond National Park different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its historical sights. However, Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Brussels has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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).

Loch Lomond National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels Better for Hiking?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Loch Lomond National Park is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some nice hiking trails. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Loch Lomond 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels Better for Families?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Brussels are very good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Loch Lomond National Park. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels Better for Couples?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Brussels are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Loch Lomond National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

Brussels is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Loch Lomond National Park. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels Better for Students?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not popular with students.


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

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit is generally limited in Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels a more walkable city?

Loch Lomond National Park
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Loch Lomond 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Loch Lomond National Park?

How long in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

In either Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Loch Lomond National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Loch Lomond National Park, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Loch Lomond 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 Loch Lomond 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 Loch Lomond 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels? Ideal Length of Stay
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4 
    Brussels 1-5

One day in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

The national park of Loch Lomond National Park offers . 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 multicultural city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

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

Brussels is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the shopping. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Brussels is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Visiting the old town is also a must. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

Loch Lomond National Park 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 national park offers something for everyone.

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


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


Which place is cheaper, Brussels or Loch Lomond National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Loch Lomond National Park is £61, 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 Loch Lomond National Park and Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
    Brussels £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
    Brussels £124
Compare Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park and Brussels

Looking for a hotel in Loch Lomond 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 Loch Lomond 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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £20
    Brussels £14

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

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


  • Subway Pass
    £3.85
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    £6.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $502
  • Brussels Airport (BRU) To Amsterdam: VIP Transfer: $492
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam by Luxury car: $285
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 SEATS): $279
  • Private Direct Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $256
  • VIP Transfer between Brussels Airport (BRU) and Antwerp: $246
  • Private VIP Transfer to/from Bruges: $245
  • Private Transfer From Brussels To Circuit SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS Belgium Luxury car : $191
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Private Transfert from Bruges to Brussels Airport By Business car: $164
  • From Brussels city to CRL Charleroi Airport- Private Airport transfer 1-3pax: $163
  • From Brussels city to CRL Charleroi Airport- Private Airport transfer 1-7pax: $163

Is it cheaper to fly into Loch Lomond National Park or Brussels?

Prices for flights to both Brussels and Loch Lomond 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
    Loch Lomond National Park £15
    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
    £3.94
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    £4.06
  • Cheese
    £4.79
  • Olives and Snacks
    £5.97
  • 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
  • Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $130
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $137
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $163

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Loch Lomond National Park £16
    Brussels £20

Tours and Activities in Brussels

Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Brussels Walking Tour with Waffle Tasting: History and Delights: $23
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Christmas Gems of Brussels - Walking Tour: $261
  • 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $273
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99
  • A day in the life of Brussels - Private tour with a local: $147
  • Antwerp Sightseeing Tour from Brussels : $48
  • Architecture Tour of Brussels: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93
    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
    £8.56
  • Beer
    £5.13

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $17
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


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

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