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

Should you visit Nagano 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 Nagano 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.

Nagano

Nagano is a historic, traditional, and alpine city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nagano and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Brussels?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Nagano than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Nagano, Nagano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nagano is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brussels attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Nagano is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also well known for Zenko-ji Temple. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Nagano different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Brussels Better for Skiing?

Nagano is well known for winter skiing. However, Brussels is not a skiing destination.

Nagano is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Brussels is not a skiing destination.

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Nagano and Brussels.

Nagano has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

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 Nagano or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Nagano is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

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 Nagano or Brussels Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a good destination for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great city for its old town. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

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.

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Is Nagano or Brussels Better for Hiking?

Nagano is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nagano. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Brussels?

Brussels is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Nagano or Brussels Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

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 Nagano or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Nagano or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Nagano or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

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

Brussels is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Brussels can take you anywhere. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Is Nagano or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Brussels?

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

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

The beautiful city of Nagano offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Nagano or Brussels?

Nagano 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nagano, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagano or Brussels?

Nagano 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagano or Brussels?

Nagano is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic big city of Brussels. 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.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano 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 Nagano or Brussels?

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 Nagano or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Brussels. The hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nagano is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 25°C (77°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagano usually gets more rain in July than Brussels. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nagano for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Nagano is a little warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In October, Nagano usually receives more rain than Brussels. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nagano or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Nagano during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nagano in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. Nagano can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nagano is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagano in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

It's quite sunny in Nagano. In the winter, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in January than Brussels. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Brussels. Most visitors come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In April, Nagano is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 11°C (52°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nagano usually receives more rain than Brussels. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Nagano