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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Brussels can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a historical, vibrant, and high energy port city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Newcastle upon Tyne. Brussels is bigger than Newcastle upon Tyne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its nightlife. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Brussels and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Newcastle upon Tyne and Brussels can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Brussels are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Many visitors go to Brussels to see the historical old town. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brussels. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels Better for Students?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Brussels are high quality destinations for students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Brussels is a great port city to visit as a student. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Brussels is a very walkable port city. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

In either Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Newcastle upon Tyne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

The port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Newcastle upon Tyne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Brussels for a weekend. Lots of people come for the shopping. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Brussels, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Brussels. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Brussels. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 10°C (49°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Brussels. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Brussels. The winter months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. The weather in Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold. Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Brussels. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Brussels. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Newcastle upon Tyne