A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Outer Hebrides vs. Brussels for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Outer Hebrides and Brussels. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a tranquil, serene, and remote archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Outer Hebrides and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels. Although Outer Hebrides and Brussels are both popular with visitors, Brussels has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brussels is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Outer Hebrides is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Brussels is more touristy than Outer Hebrides and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Outer Hebrides is popular for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Outer Hebrides different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

Brussels is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Outer Hebrides and Brussels can be an enjoyable experience.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Outer Hebrides. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Brussels. 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 Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Brussels is a good destination for nightlife. However, Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Brussels. 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides is well known for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Outer Hebrides for it's beautiful beaches. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Outer Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Outer Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Is Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Outer Hebrides is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Brussels. 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for Families?

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

Brussels is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Outer Hebrides. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.

Is Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides and Brussels both excellent destinations for a couple.

Outer Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Brussels is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 budget travelers visit Outer Hebrides. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

Is Outer Hebrides or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit is generally limited in Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

Is Outer Hebrides or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Outer Hebrides?

How long in Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

In either Outer Hebrides or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Outer Hebrides than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Outer Hebrides. 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 Outer Hebrides. 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 Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

The beautiful archipelago of Outer Hebrides offers 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 Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

Outer Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Outer Hebrides, 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 Outer Hebrides or Brussels?

Outer Hebrides is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Outer Hebrides 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 Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Outer Hebrides during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

Outer Hebrides is cooler than Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Brussels. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Brussels. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Outer Hebrides this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Outer Hebrides is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Outer Hebrides in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Outer Hebrides gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Brussels. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Brussels. Many travelers come to Outer Hebrides for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Outer Hebrides. In January, Outer Hebrides is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 4°C (40°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Outer Hebrides often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides receives a lot of rain in the winter. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in January than Brussels. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months.

Outer Hebrides is cooler than Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during spring. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Brussels. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Outer Hebrides