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

Should you visit Nottingham or Antwerp?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Antwerp 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a cultural, authentic, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Antwerp?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Nottingham. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antwerp is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Nottingham attracts visitors for its music. Nottingham is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Nottingham different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Antwerp

Antwerp is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Antwerp. 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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Both Nottingham and Antwerp offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Antwerp has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Nottingham or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Antwerp

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

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Nottingham or Antwerp Better for Music?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Nottingham is very good for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Antwerp is well known for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Antwerp is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Antwerp?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Antwerp is very popular for shopping. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Is Nottingham or Antwerp Better for Families?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Both Nottingham and Antwerp are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air 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 Nottingham or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Both Nottingham and Antwerp are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Nottingham or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Antwerp is a port city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Antwerp is a good port city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Antwerp Better for Students?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Antwerp is well known for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Antwerp. 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


Is Nottingham or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Nottingham 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.

Nottingham has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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 Nottingham or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Antwerp

Nottingham and Antwerp both are superb when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Antwerp?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Nottingham 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 Antwerp.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Antwerp? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Antwerp 1-3

One day in Nottingham or Antwerp?

In Nottingham, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the historical 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 Nottingham or Antwerp?

In Nottingham, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Antwerp?

Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Nottingham. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.


Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Antwerp is £105. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Antwerp in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Antwerp £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Antwerp £122
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Antwerp? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Antwerp


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Antwerp Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Antwerp £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • East Midlands Airport (EMA) to Derby - Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $77
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $39
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $77
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $39
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Private Nottingham Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $97
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Buxton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $87
  • Private Transfer from Derby to Manchester Airport (MAN): $194

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $176
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $69
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $165
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $87
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and Nottingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £36
    Antwerp £34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Antwerp.

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $68
  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Antwerp £7.03

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.61
  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $26
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • ABSEIL EXPERIENCE off Millers Dale Bridge THE BEST in Derbyshire & Peak District: $45
  • ABSEIL EXPERIENCE off Millers Dale Bridge THE BEST in Derbyshire & Peak District: $45
  • Stamford Private Walking Tour: $63
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $90
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $104
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $104
  • Stamford and Burghley House Private Tour: $127

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Historical Walking Tour in Antwerp Old City: $2.60
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.29
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.30
  • Escape Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.18
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.14
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.14
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $17
  • Walking Tour Big five Rubens' churches (audio): $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Antwerp £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • DropWorks Fun Rum Distillery Tour - Largest Rum Distillery in UK!: $32
  • Private Half Day Stamford Pub Tour: $134

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $16
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $66
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $98


When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Antwerp, we can see that Nottingham 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 Nottingham Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Antwerp?

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 Nottingham or Antwerp in the Summer?

Both Antwerp and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Antwerp. Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Antwerp. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Antwerp in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Antwerp. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

It's quite cold in Antwerp in the winter. The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. Nottingham is a little warmer than Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Antwerp. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the activities around the city.

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

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Antwerp. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Nottingham

Nottingham Antwerp
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)