A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Andrews vs. Antwerp for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Antwerp, 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.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a authentic, genuine, and cultural port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Saint Andrews, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antwerp is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint Andrews is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Andrews is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. Also, Antwerp is famous for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Saint Andrews different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Antwerp is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.


Is the Food Better in Saint Andrews or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Andrews. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Antwerp is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Antwerp offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Saint Andrews is very good for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Saint Andrews to enjoy the beach. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Antwerp is a well-known place for its old town. However, Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Saint Andrews is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Antwerp is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antwerp make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.


Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Saint Andrews and Antwerp are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly place to visit. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Antwerp is a family-friendly university town. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Saint Andrews is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Saint Andrews frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Antwerp is a good university town for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Antwerp is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.


Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Saint Andrews is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Saint Andrews. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Antwerp is a great university town to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Both Saint Andrews and Antwerp offer notable public transit options.

Saint Andrews has a few public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Antwerp has some public transit options. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Saint Andrews or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Antwerp

Antwerp is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable university town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Saint Andrews 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 Antwerp.


  • How many days in Saint Andrews or Antwerp? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Antwerp 1-3

One day in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Saint Andrews is a small town with plenty to do. This university town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Antwerp. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Andrews has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Saint Andrews is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic destination of Antwerp. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


A week in Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Andrews. Since Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the port city of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.


Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Saint Andrews?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £215, while the average daily cost in Antwerp is £105. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Saint Andrews and Antwerp in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Antwerp £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Antwerp £122
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Antwerp? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Saint Andrews


Hotels in Antwerp


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Antwerp Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Antwerp £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68
  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and Saint Andrews change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Saint Andrews £62
    Antwerp £34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Antwerp.

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Antwerp £7.03

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Saint Andrews are as follows:

  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour: $82
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audioguide App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $16
  • Walking Tour Big five Rubens' churches (audio): $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Antwerp £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Andrews and Antwerp, we can see that Saint Andrews is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Saint Andrews would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Andrews than you might in Antwerp.

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Antwerp, 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 Saint Andrews or Antwerp?

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 Saint Andrews or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Antwerp. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Antwerp in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Antwerp fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Antwerp. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In the autumn, Saint Andrews is cooler than Antwerp. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Andrews in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Antwerp averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Antwerp. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. It's quite cold in Saint Andrews in the winter. In January, Saint Andrews is generally around the same temperature as Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 3°C (38°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Antwerp in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Antwerp fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Antwerp. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Antwerp
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)