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

Should you visit Nottingham or Bruges?

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 Bruges 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 authentic, dynamic, and livable city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Bruges

Bruges is a charming, historic, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Bruges: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nottingham or Bruges?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nottingham than Bruges. Nottingham is bigger than Bruges, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nottingham is better known for its music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Bruges?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bruges 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 Bruges?

Bruges 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 Bruges. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

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 Bruges? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bruges makes for a great culinary experience. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Nottingham or Bruges Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Bruges.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bruges has a few options to choose from. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Nottingham or Bruges Better for Music?

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

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue 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.

Bruges is not a live music destination.

Is Nottingham or Bruges Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is very popular for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Bruges has a world-famous historical area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Bruges?

Nottingham is great for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nottingham. 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.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Nottingham or Bruges Better for Families?

Both Nottingham and Bruges are notable 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.

Bruges offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Nottingham or Bruges Better for Couples?

Bruges is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Bruges frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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

Is Nottingham or Bruges Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is well known for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Nottingham or Bruges a more walkable city?

Bruges is very popular for its walkability. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Bruges or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Bruges?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bruges 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 Bruges.

One day in Nottingham or Bruges?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nottingham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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

A weekend in Nottingham or Bruges?

Nottingham is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bruges, 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. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Bruges?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bruges, a popular 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 Bruges?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Nottingham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bruges is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Bruges, 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 Bruges Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Bruges?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Bruges, 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 Bruges?

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 Nottingham or Bruges in the Summer?

Both Bruges and Nottingham during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Bruges. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Bruges, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bruges. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 202 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Bruges. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nottingham or Bruges in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Bruges. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Bruges in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Nottingham is cooler than Bruges in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Bruges fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bruges during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Bruges. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nottingham or Bruges in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Bruges. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bruges for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bruges can be very cold during winter. Nottingham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nottingham is a little warmer than Bruges. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Bruges averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Bruges. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 47 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Bruges. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nottingham or Bruges in the Spring?

Both Bruges and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bruges because of the natural beauty.

In April, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Bruges. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bruges during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bruges. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bruges and Nottingham