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

Should you visit Manchester or Antwerp?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Antwerp can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a vibrant, authentic, and genuine port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Manchester and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Manchester. Although Manchester and Antwerp are popular destinations, Manchester has more sights and attractions for tourists. Manchester is very popular for its food, music, and big city activities, while Antwerp attracts visitors for its historical sights and shopping. Manchester is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. It is also well known for The National Football Museum. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Manchester different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Manchester or Antwerp.

Many visitors head to Manchester specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

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 Manchester or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Manchester is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

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 Manchester or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is very good in both Manchester and Antwerp.

Many people head to Manchester for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Antwerp has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Manchester or Antwerp Better for Music?

Manchester is well known for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Manchester or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is great for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Antwerp?

Antwerp is very popular for shopping. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Antwerp. 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.

Manchester is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Manchester or Antwerp Better for Families?

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

Manchester is a very kid-friendly city. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

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 Manchester or Antwerp Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Manchester frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

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 Manchester or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Manchester and Antwerp are nice places to visit.

Manchester is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

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 Manchester or Antwerp Better for Students?

For students, both Manchester and Antwerp are very good places to visit.

Manchester is very popular with students. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Antwerp is a great city to visit as a student. 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 Manchester or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Manchester is well known for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Manchester has some very good public transit options. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

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 Manchester or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Antwerp is great for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Manchester and Antwerp. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Manchester than in Antwerp. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

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

One day in Manchester or Antwerp?

Because Manchester is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the cultural port city of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antwerp, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Manchester or Antwerp?

Because Manchester 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. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Manchester has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Five days in Manchester or Antwerp?

Manchester is a great place to explore. 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.

Antwerp, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Manchester. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Manchester. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Antwerp. The summer months attract visitors to Manchester because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In the summer, Manchester is around the same temperature as Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Manchester in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Antwerp. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Antwerp. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Manchester is generally cooler than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 11°C (52°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Manchester or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Manchester during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Manchester for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Manchester. Manchester is a little warmer than Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Antwerp. Many visitors come to Manchester in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Manchester is around the same temperature as Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Manchester in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Manchester