A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Brussels for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands and Brussels can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a tranquil, natural, and pristine archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, museums, and food.

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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Orkney Islands and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Brussels?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Brussels than Orkney Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Brussels is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Orkney Islands is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Brussels is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Orkney Islands is well known for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Orkney Islands different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Brussels?

Brussels is great for its historical sights. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its sights and museums.

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.

Orkney Islands is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Orkney Islands and Brussels.

Orkney Islands has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

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 Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Brussels is very good for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Orkney Islands for it's beautiful beaches. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is great for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Orkney Islands. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Brussels?

Brussels is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago 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.

Orkney Islands is a family-friendly place to visit. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for Couples?

Both Orkney Islands and Brussels are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Brussels is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Orkney Islands and Brussels are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Orkney Islands. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

Brussels is very popular with students. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its public transit.

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Orkney Islands has a few public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Is Orkney Islands or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Brussels?

In either Orkney Islands or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Orkney Islands. 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 Orkney Islands. 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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands or Brussels?

The beautiful archipelago of Orkney Islands offers museums and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Brussels?

Orkney Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Brussels?

Orkney Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Orkney Islands, five days is sufficent for most. 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Orkney Islands or Brussels?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orkney Islands has to offer. This archipelago offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Brussels. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Brussels, we can see that Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Brussels. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Orkney Islands is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orkney Islands in July average around 12°C (54°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area 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, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 9°C (48°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. In October, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Brussels. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Orkney Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the museums 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 Orkney Islands can be very cold. Orkney Islands is a little warmer than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Orkney Islands gets 29 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 Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in January than Brussels. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Brussels. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Orkney Islands is much colder than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orkney Islands in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during spring. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Orkney Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Orkney Islands