A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers The Hague vs. Antwerp for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit The Hague or Antwerp?

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 The Hague and Antwerp can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, diverse, and global city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a vibrant, authentic, and genuine port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
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 The Hague or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp. Although The Hague and Antwerp are popular destinations, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antwerp is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while The Hague attracts visitors for its food, music, and big city activities. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is The Hague different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hague or Antwerp?

The Hague
Antwerp

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hague
Antwerp

The Hague 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 The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

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 The Hague or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Antwerp

Both The Hague and Antwerp have very good vibes after the sun sets.

The Hague has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

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.

Is The Hague or Antwerp Better for Music?

The Hague
Antwerp

The Hague is well known for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in The Hague. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.


Is The Hague or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

The Hague
Antwerp

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

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

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Antwerp?

The Hague
Antwerp

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for shopping. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Antwerp. 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.

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is The Hague or Antwerp Better for Families?

The Hague
Antwerp

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either The Hague or Antwerp.

The Hague is a family-friendly city. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. 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 The Hague or Antwerp Better for Couples?

The Hague
Antwerp

Both The Hague and Antwerp are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

The Hague is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 The Hague or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague
Antwerp

The Hague and Antwerp are both nice destinations for backpackers.

The Hague is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

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 The Hague or Antwerp Better for Students?

The Hague
Antwerp

The Hague 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 The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Antwerp is a great city 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 The Hague or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

The Hague
Antwerp

The Hague is well known for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The Hague has some very good public transit options. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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 The Hague or Antwerp a more walkable city?

The Hague
Antwerp

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hague and Antwerp. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in The Hague or Antwerp? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hague 1-3 
    Antwerp 1-3

One day in The Hague or Antwerp?

Because The Hague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in The Hague or Antwerp?

Because The Hague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 The Hague has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in The Hague or Antwerp?

The Hague 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 cultural port city of Antwerp. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in The Hague or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting The Hague. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.


Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or The Hague?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, while the average daily cost in Antwerp is €123. 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 The Hague and Antwerp in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Antwerp 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Antwerp 142
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in The Hague 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 The Hague


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: The Hague Hotel Prices and Antwerp Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Antwerp 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

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

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $282
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $12
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.36
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $261
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $138
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $138
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $127
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $142
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $87
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $165
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $69
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $176

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and The Hague 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
    The Hague 55
    Antwerp 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $88
  • WALKING DINNER ZOETERMEER | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $88

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: $68
  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hague 34
    Antwerp 8.21

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tip-Based 2 Hour Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.26
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.29
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.29
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.14
  • City walking tour (in German) - Gilde Den Haag: $8.69
  • City walking tour (in English) - Gilde Den Haag: $8.69
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.50
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Antwerp : $232
  • 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $32
  • 3-Hour Private Tour in Antwerp: $50
  • Antwerp : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $81
  • Antwerp Bike Tours: $35
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Antwerp Private Tour From Brussels: $431
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.18
  • Antwerp Shore Excursion and Bruges Private City Tour including Chocolate Tasting: $185
  • Antwerp by Night Private Walking Tour: $91
  • Antwerp historical walking tour: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hague 30
    Antwerp 18

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $16

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: $16
  • 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: $66
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $98


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between The Hague and Antwerp, we can see that The Hague 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 The Hague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hague 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 The Hague Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, The Hague or Antwerp?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of The Hague 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 The Hague or Antwerp?

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 The Hague or Antwerp in the Summer?

Both Antwerp and The Hague during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In the summer, The Hague is around the same temperature as Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in The Hague in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in The Hague. In the summer, The Hague often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in July than Antwerp. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hague 17°C (62°F) 
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Antwerp. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, The Hague is generally cooler than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 11°C (51°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during autumn. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, The Hague usually receives less rain than Antwerp. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Antwerp in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Antwerp. Many travelers come to The Hague for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hague. The Hague is much colder than Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, The Hague often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to The Hague in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, The Hague is cooler than Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in The Hague in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during spring. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, The Hague usually receives more rain than Antwerp. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hague 8°C (46°F) 
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Antwerp and The Hague

The Hague Antwerp
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)