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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Brussels?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Thessaloniki. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Thessaloniki attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Thessaloniki different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Thessaloniki and Brussels.

Thessaloniki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Brussels both to be superb destinations.

Thessaloniki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Dining out in Brussels is an experience not to be missed. 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 Thessaloniki or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Thessaloniki is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. 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 Thessaloniki or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Thessaloniki is a good spot to see the beach. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Brussels?

Brussels is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Thessaloniki. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Is Thessaloniki or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Thessaloniki or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Brussels are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Thessaloniki or Brussels Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Brussels are superb destinations for students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

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.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Thessaloniki or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Brussels?

In either Thessaloniki or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Thessaloniki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Brussels?

The city of Thessaloniki offers food and shopping. 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.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Brussels?

Thessaloniki 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thessaloniki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Brussels?

Thessaloniki 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.

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Brussels?

Thessaloniki 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 city offers something for everyone.

Brussels is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Brussels. The autumn months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Brussels. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Brussels. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In the winter, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Brussels. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Brussels. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Thessaloniki