A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Taupo vs. Antwerp for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Taupo or Antwerp?

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

Should I visit Taupo or Antwerp? 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.

Taupo

Taupo is a stunning, otherworldly, and striking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Taupo is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Taupo travel costs.

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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Antwerp travel costs.

Taupo and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Taupo or Antwerp?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Taupo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antwerp is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Taupo is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Taupo is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes. 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 Taupo different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Taupo or Antwerp Better for Skiing?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for winter skiing. However, Antwerp is not a skiing destination.

Taupo is among the world's best ski destinations. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Antwerp is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Taupo or Antwerp?

Antwerp is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Antwerp offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

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

Both Taupo and Antwerp offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Taupo. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

Antwerp has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Taupo or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Antwerp know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Taupo or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is a great destination for its old town. However, Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antwerp. 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.

Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Is Taupo or Antwerp Better for Hiking?

Taupo is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Taupo. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taupo or Antwerp?

Antwerp is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Taupo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Taupo or Antwerp More Beautiful?

Taupo is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Taupo is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Taupo or Antwerp Better for Families?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Taupo is one of the most popular family destinations. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. 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 Taupo or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Taupo has plenty to offer. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

Antwerp is a good 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 Taupo or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Taupo. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

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.

Is Taupo or Antwerp Better for Students?

Antwerp is a great destination for students. However, Taupo is not popular with students.

Antwerp is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Taupo is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Taupo and Antwerp.

You'll find some public transit in Taupo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Taupo or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Antwerp is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Taupo?

How long in Taupo or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Taupo and Antwerp. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Taupo, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

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

One day in Taupo or Antwerp?

In Taupo, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Antwerp, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Taupo or Antwerp?

In Taupo, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taupo has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Taupo or Antwerp?

Taupo is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Taupo or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taupo. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Taupo. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 genuine destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Taupo and Antwerp, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. And not only is Taupo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Taupo is in Pacific and Antwerp is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Taupo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Taupo 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 Antwerp would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antwerp than you might in Taupo.

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

Which is Bigger, Taupo or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Taupo 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.