A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Salzburg vs. Brussels for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Salzburg or Brussels?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg 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.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a beautiful, musical, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Brussels

Brussels is a colorful, multicultural, and historic 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.

Salzburg and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Salzburg. Brussels is bigger than Salzburg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its big city activities, while Salzburg is more popular for its music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. 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 Salzburg different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Salzburg or Brussels.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Salzburg and Brussels.

Dining out in Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Brussels are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

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.

Is Salzburg or Brussels Better for Music?

Salzburg is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Salzburg is one of the most recognized in the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Brussels?

Both Salzburg and Brussels are world-class shopping destinations.

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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.

Is Salzburg or Brussels Better for Families?

Salzburg and Brussels are both great destinations for the whole family.

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Brussels Better for Couples?

Salzburg is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Salzburg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Salzburg or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Brussels are great destinations for backpackers.

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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.

Is Salzburg or Brussels Better for Students?

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

Salzburg is a very popular place to visit for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Brussels is a very popular city 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 Salzburg or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is terrific for its public transit. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Brussels can take you anywhere. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Salzburg or Brussels a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Brussels both are great when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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 Salzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Brussels?

In either Salzburg or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Salzburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Salzburg than Brussels. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Brussels 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 Salzburg.

One day in Salzburg or Brussels?

The beautiful city of Salzburg offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Brussels is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Salzburg or Brussels?

Salzburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Brussels?

Salzburg is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Salzburg, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salzburg or Brussels?

Salzburg is a great place to explore. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Brussels?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Brussels. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Brussels. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Brussels. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, 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 October, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Salzburg 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. Salzburg can be very cold during winter. Salzburg is much colder than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Brussels. Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In the spring, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Salzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Brussels. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Salzburg