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

Should you visit Tokyo or Brussels?

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

Should I visit Tokyo 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.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a cutting edge, high tech, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Brussels. Tokyo is bigger than Brussels, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tokyo is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is more popular for its historical sights. Tokyo is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Tokyo different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tokyo is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Tokyo that are not to be missed. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

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.

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

Tokyo is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Tokyo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

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).

Is Tokyo or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Tokyo is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

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 Tokyo or Brussels Better for Music?

Tokyo is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Tokyo is a world class music destination. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is great for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo 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.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Brussels?

If you're looking to go shopping, Tokyo and Brussels both offer plenty of amazing spots.

Many people travel to Tokyo specifically to go shopping. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Is Tokyo or Brussels Better for Families?

Tokyo is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Tokyo is very family-friendly. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

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.

Is Tokyo or Brussels Better for Couples?

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

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

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 Tokyo or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Tokyo or Brussels Better for Students?

Tokyo is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

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.

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

Tokyo and Brussels both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

Tokyo has a great public transit system. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

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

Is Tokyo or Brussels a more walkable city?

Tokyo is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Tokyo on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Brussels?

In either Tokyo or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Brussels 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 Tokyo.

One day in Tokyo or Brussels?

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Brussels, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This 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 Tokyo or Brussels?

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. 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 Tokyo or Brussels?

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels is a fun place to experience. In Brussels, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tokyo or Brussels?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the multicultural big city of Brussels. 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Tokyo and Brussels, we can see that Tokyo 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. Even though Tokyo is in Asia and Brussels is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Brussels?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Brussels in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Tokyo is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tokyo usually gets more rain in July than Brussels. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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.

In October, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Brussels. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Brussels in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. Tokyo is much warmer than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Tokyo usually gets less rain in January than Brussels. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Brussels in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Tokyo is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Brussels. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Tokyo