A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oxford vs. Brussels for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Oxford or Brussels?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Brussels, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful, historic, and scholarly college town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a colorful, multicultural, and historic 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.

Oxford and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Oxford, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Oxford is known for its nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Oxford different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oxford or Brussels?

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Oxford or Brussels.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oxford can be an interesting and educational experience. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

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

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

Brussels is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Oxford or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Oxford is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

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 Oxford or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Brussels?

Brussels is very popular for shopping. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Oxford offers some nice shopping areas. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Oxford or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oxford 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 Oxford. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Is Oxford or Brussels Better for Couples?

Oxford and Brussels are both great to visit as a couple.

Oxford makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

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 Oxford or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options 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.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Oxford or Brussels Better for Students?

Oxford is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Brussels is a very popular college town for students and younger travelers. 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 Oxford or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

You'll find some public transit in Oxford, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Is Oxford or Brussels a more walkable city?

Oxford and Brussels are great when it comes to walkability.

Oxford is very walkable. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

Brussels is a very walkable college town. 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 Oxford Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Brussels?

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

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Oxford. 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 Oxford. 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 Oxford 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 Oxford or Brussels?

Oxford is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Oxford or Brussels?

Oxford is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this college town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oxford, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Oxford or Brussels?

Oxford 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Oxford or Brussels?

Oxford is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This college town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic big city of Brussels. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Oxford during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Oxford is around the same temperature as Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Brussels. Many visitors come to Oxford in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Oxford is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oxford in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during autumn. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oxford usually receives less rain than Brussels. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Oxford or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Brussels. Most visitors come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. Oxford can be very cold during winter. In January, Oxford is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 3°C (38°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in January than Brussels. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

Oxford is around the same temperature as Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

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

In April, Oxford usually receives less rain than Brussels. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Oxford