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

Should you visit Melbourne or Brussels?

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

Should I visit Melbourne 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.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a cultural, progressive, and livable city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Melbourne and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Brussels?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Brussels than Melbourne. While Melbourne is larger than Brussels, Brussels has more sights and attractions for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Melbourne attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Melbourne is famous for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. 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 Melbourne different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Melbourne and Brussels.

Melbourne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

Many visitors head to Brussels specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Melbourne or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Melbourne and Brussels offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

Melbourne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Dining out in Brussels is an experience not to be missed. 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 Melbourne or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Melbourne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

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 Melbourne or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Melbourne is well known for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Melbourne for it's beautiful beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Melbourne or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a very popular place for its old town. However, Melbourne does not have a historic old 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.

Melbourne does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Brussels?

Brussels is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Melbourne. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Is Melbourne or Brussels Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Melbourne or Brussels.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Melbourne is very family-friendly. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Brussels is known to be 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 Melbourne or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Melbourne or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Melbourne or Brussels Better for Students?

Melbourne is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Brussels is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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 Melbourne or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Melbourne. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

Is Melbourne or Brussels a more walkable city?

Melbourne and Brussels are superb when it comes to walkability.

Melbourne is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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 Melbourne Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Brussels?

In either Melbourne or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Brussels has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Brussels than Melbourne. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Couples should spend more time in Brussels than Melbourne. 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne or Brussels?

Melbourne is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Brussels. 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 Melbourne or Brussels?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cosmopolitan big city of Brussels. 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 Melbourne or Brussels?

Melbourne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Melbourne, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the colorful city of Brussels. 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 Melbourne or Brussels?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Melbourne and Brussels, we can see that Melbourne is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Melbourne is in Pacific and Brussels is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Melbourne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Melbourne 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 Melbourne Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Brussels?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne 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 Melbourne or Brussels?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Melbourne is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Brussels has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Melbourne or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Melbourne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Melbourne for the beaches, the city activities, 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 January, Melbourne is generally around the same temperature as Brusselsin July. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 20°C (68°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Melbourne. In the summer, Melbourne often gets more sunshine than Brusselsin July. Melbourne gets 271 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in January than Brusselsin July. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or Brussels in the Autumn?

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

Melbourne is a little warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in October.

Melbourne usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Melbourne gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Brusselsin October. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Melbourne or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Melbourne as well as Brussels. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Melbourne 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. In the winter, Melbourne is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Melbourne in July average around 9°C (49°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F)in January.

In the winter, Melbourne often gets more sunshine than Brusselsin January. Melbourne gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in July than Brusselsin January. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or Brussels in the Spring?

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

In October, Melbourne is generally a little warmer than Brusselsin April. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 14°C (57°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. Melbourne usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Melbourne gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Melbourne usually receives more rain than Brusselsin April. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Melbourne