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

Should you visit Southampton or Brussels?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Brussels? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Southampton

Southampton is a up-and-coming, waterfront, and dynamic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Southampton and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Southampton or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Southampton. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Southampton attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Brussels is more touristy than Southampton and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Southampton is famous for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)
La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Southampton different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Southampton. Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.


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

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Southampton area. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.

Is Southampton or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Southampton
Brussels

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Southampton and Brussels.

If you're looking for night time activities Southampton has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Southampton or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its old town. However, Southampton does not have a historic old town.

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.

Southampton does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or Brussels?

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Southampton to go shopping. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.

Is Southampton or Brussels Better for Families?

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. 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.

Southampton is a family-friendly place to visit. This cruise port city offers a handful of fascinating activities for kids including learning about the Mayflower and the Titanic. There are also many parks and gardens as well as the Mayflower Theater, which regularly has kid-family productions.

Is Southampton or Brussels Better for Couples?

Southampton
Brussels

With fun activities for couples, both Southampton and Brussels make for a superb place to visit.

Southampton is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.

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.


Is Southampton or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many backpackers visit Brussels. 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.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Southampton or Brussels Better for Students?

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Southampton is not popular with students.

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.

Southampton is not popular with students.

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

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit is generally limited in Southampton. There are buses around town that make some areas accessible even without a car.


Is Southampton or Brussels a more walkable city?

Southampton
Brussels

Brussels is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its ease of walking around.

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

Southampton is a somewhat walkable port city. It's possible to walk in parts of Southampton but in general it's easier to take a taxi.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Southampton?

How long in Southampton or Brussels?

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

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Southampton. 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 Southampton. 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 Southampton 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.


  • How many days in Southampton or Brussels? Ideal Length of Stay
    Southampton 1-3 
    Brussels 1-5

One day in Southampton or Brussels?

The port city of Southampton offers 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 historic city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the shopping. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or Brussels?

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

Brussels is a multicultural big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Southampton or Brussels?

Southampton 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 multicultural city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Southampton or Brussels?

Southampton 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 port city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Brussels or Southampton?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Southampton is £132, while the average daily cost in Brussels is £117. 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 Southampton and Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Southampton £85
    Brussels £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Southampton £170
    Brussels £124
Compare Hotels in Southampton and Brussels

Looking for a hotel in Southampton or Brussels? 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 Southampton


Hotels in Brussels


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: Southampton Hotel Prices and Brussels Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Southampton £8.70
    Brussels £14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Southampton

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Southampton:


  • Ferry to Isle of Wight
    £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Southampton

Also for Southampton, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port - Private Transfer: $302
  • Heathrow Airport to Southampton Ports - Private Transfer: $277
  • Private Minivan Transfer Southampton Cruise Terminals to Heathrow Airport: $291
  • Private Southampton Arrival Transfer - Airport to Cruise Port: $49
  • Private Southampton Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Southampton Departure Transfer - Cruise Port to Airport: $49
  • Private Southampton Departure Transfer -Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49
  • Private Transfer From Southampton Airport to Southampton Port: $35
  • Private Transfer from Southampton Airport (SOU) to Bournemouth City: $88
  • Private Transfer from Southampton Airport to Southampton City: $35
  • Private Transfer from Southampton City to Southampton Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Southampton City to Southampton Cruise Port: $35

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    £3.85
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    £6.84

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $509
  • Brussels Airport (BRU) To Amsterdam: VIP Transfer: $499
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam by Luxury car: $289
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 SEATS): $283
  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam By Luxury car: $274
  • Private Direct Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $260
  • Private VIP Transfer to/from Bruges: $249
  • Brussels Private Transfer from Brussels city centre to Brussels Charleroi Airport (CRL): $233
  • Private Transfer From Brussels To Circuit SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS Belgium Luxury car : $193
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> SPA (1 to 8 PLACES): $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Southampton or Brussels?

Prices for flights to both Brussels and Southampton 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
    Southampton £37
    Brussels £33
Typical Food Prices in Southampton

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Southampton:


  • Breakfast
    £4.00

Typical Food Prices in Brussels

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    £3.93
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    £4.06
  • Cheese
    £4.79
  • Olives and Snacks
    £5.97
  • Waffle
    £2.57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $30
  • Chocolate and Beer Food Tour of Brussels: $43
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $60
  • Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local: $90
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $107
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $112
  • The 10 Tastings of Brussels With Locals: PRIVATE Food Tour (B-Corp certified): $159
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $165
  • Brussels Private Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie : $194

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Southampton £19
    Brussels £20

Tours and Activities in Southampton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Southampton.

  • Southampton Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Private Walking Tour of Southampton: $23
  • Isle of Wight Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Retro E-Bike Hire Experience exploring the New Forest coastline: $64
  • Pedal & Puzzle, Outdoor Escape Room E-Bike Adventure: $83
  • Newbury Paddleboard Tour: $101
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Winchester from Southampton Port: $113
  • Walk the Secrets of the Titanic: Private Tour: $116
  • Shuttle Service Southampton Cruise Terminals to Heathrow Airport and London: $154
  • Private cruise arrival from Southampton to London or airport: $160
  • Oxford and Blenheim Palace Day Tour from Southampton: $192
  • London to Southampton and Portsmouth Cruise: $192

Tours and Activities in Brussels

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

  • Beer Tasting Tour in Brussels: $24
  • Brussels Walking Tour with Waffle Tasting: History and Delights: $23
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Christmas Gems of Brussels - Walking Tour: $264
  • 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in the templar village of Lissewege: $76
  • 3 Hour Private Bike Tour in Brussels: $201
  • 3 hours Belgian Truffles and Pastries Experience: $71
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $276
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Southampton £21
    Brussels £11

Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £8.55
  • Beer
    £5.13

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $18
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


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


Which is Bigger, Southampton or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Southampton. When comparing the sizes of Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Brussels. Most visitors come to Southampton for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Southampton is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 18°C (64°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

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

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Southampton 18°C (64°F) 
    Brussels 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Southampton because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

Southampton is around the same temperature as Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

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

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Southampton 12°C (53°F) 
    Brussels 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Southampton during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Southampton this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. It's quite cold in Southampton in the winter. In the winter, Southampton is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Southampton in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Southampton 4°C (40°F) 
    Brussels 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Brussels. Many travelers come to Southampton for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Southampton is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 9°C (48°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Southampton 9°C (48°F) 
    Brussels 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Brussels and Southampton

Southampton Brussels
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in)