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

Should you visit Palermo or Brussels?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Brussels 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Palermo. Brussels is bigger than Palermo, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Palermo is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Palermo different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Both Palermo and Brussels offer very good local cuisine and restaurants.

Dining out in Palermo is an experience not to be missed. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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).

Is Palermo or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Palermo is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Brussels Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Brussels Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

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

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Brussels?

Brussels is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Is Palermo or Brussels Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Brussels are very good to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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.

Is Palermo or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Brussels is very popular for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Brussels a more walkable city?

Palermo and Brussels both are very good when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Brussels?

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

Couples should spend more time in Brussels than Palermo. 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Brussels?

The city of Palermo offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

A weekend in Palermo or Brussels?

Palermo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Palermo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Brussels?

Palermo 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.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Brussels?

Palermo is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palermo and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels than you might in Palermo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Palermo Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 52% larger than the population of Palermo. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo or Brussels?

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 Palermo or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Brussels. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palermo is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Brussels. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Brussels. Many travelers come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Palermo is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Palermo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. Palermo is much warmer than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Brussels. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Palermo during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Palermo is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Palermo