A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Brussels for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Brussels can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming, historic, and quaint town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for food and theater.

Brussels

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

Stratford-upon-Avon and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Brussels are popular destinations, Brussels has more sights and attractions for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions and small town charm. Brussels is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon 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). Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

Brussels is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Brussels specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for theatre. However, Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

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 Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Brussels is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a very popular place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Brussels makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Brussels is very popular with students. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

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

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

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

Many people visit Brussels for a weekend. Lots of people come for the shopping. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. 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.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. One week 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.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Stratford-upon-Avon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 17°C (63°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

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

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Brussels. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

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

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Brussels. Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Brussels. The winter months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. The weather in Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold. In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

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

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in January than Brussels. Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

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

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

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Brussels. Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon