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

Should you visit Lucerne or Bruges?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Bruges. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a vibrant, scenic, and active city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bruges

Bruges is a historic, cultural, and beautiful city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Bruges: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Bruges?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than Bruges. While Bruges is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Lucerne and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Lucerne is famous for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Bruges?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lucerne or Bruges?

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Bruges and Lucerne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Bruges? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bruges is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bruges has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Bruges Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne is great for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Lucerne or Bruges Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Bruges has a world-famous historical area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Bruges?

Lucerne is great for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Lucerne or Bruges Better for Families?

Both Lucerne and Bruges are nice family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Lucerne or Bruges Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Bruges both excellent destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Bruges is a very popular place to visit for couples. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Is Lucerne or Bruges Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Bruges Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne and Bruges both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Lucerne or Bruges a more walkable city?

Bruges is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Bruges is a very easy city to get around on foot. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Bruges Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bruges or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Bruges?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lucerne and Bruges. In our opinion, Bruges has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bruges than Lucerne. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bruges than Lucerne 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 Bruges.

One day in Lucerne or Bruges?

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

In Bruges, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Lucerne or Bruges?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Bruges, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bruges has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Bruges?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. 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.

Bruges is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Bruges?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active destination of Lucerne. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bruges. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bruges. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Bruges?

Bruges has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Bruges, 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 Lucerne or Bruges?

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 Lucerne or Bruges in the Summer?

Both Bruges and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bruges this time of year.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Bruges in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Bruges fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Bruges. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Bruges during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Bruges. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lucerne or Bruges in the Autumn?

Both Bruges and Lucerne during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Bruges. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Bruges averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Bruges. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 105 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets less rain in October than Bruges. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Bruges in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Bruges. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bruges in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bruges can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Lucerne. In January, Lucerne is generally around the same temperature as Bruges. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Bruges during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Bruges. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lucerne or Bruges in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Bruges. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bruges for the natural beauty during these months.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Bruges in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Bruges fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bruges. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 158 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Bruges. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bruges and Lucerne