A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Utrecht vs. Antwerp for Old Town, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Utrecht or Antwerp?

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

Should I visit Utrecht 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.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Utrecht or Antwerp?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Utrecht. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antwerp is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Utrecht is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. 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 Utrecht different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Utrecht
Antwerp

Antwerp is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.


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

Utrecht
Antwerp

Foodies will find both Utrecht and Antwerp both to be nice destinations.

Utrecht offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Antwerp has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Utrecht or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Both Utrecht and Antwerp are great when it comes to partying.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Antwerp has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Utrecht or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Utrecht is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Utrecht offers plenty to see. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Antwerp?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Antwerp is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Utrecht is well-known for its shopping. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Is Utrecht or Antwerp Better for Families?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Utrecht or Antwerp.

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Antwerp is a family-friendly . 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 Utrecht or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Utrecht is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Utrecht frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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

Utrecht
Antwerp

Utrecht is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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 Utrecht or Antwerp Better for Students?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Utrecht and Antwerp are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Utrecht is a very popular for students and younger travelers. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Antwerp is very popular with students. 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 Utrecht or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht has some very good public transit options. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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 Utrecht or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Utrecht
Antwerp

Utrecht is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Utrecht on foot is easy. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Utrecht and Antwerp. In our opinion, Utrecht has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Utrecht than Antwerp. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Utrecht than Antwerp 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 Utrecht.


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

One day in Utrecht or Antwerp?

In Utrecht, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Utrecht or Antwerp?

In Utrecht, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Utrecht has to offer.

In Antwerp, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer.


Five days in Utrecht or Antwerp?

Utrecht is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Utrecht or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Utrecht. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Utrecht. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Utrecht?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Utrecht is €189, 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 Utrecht and Antwerp in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Utrecht 106
    Antwerp 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Utrecht 212
    Antwerp 142
Compare Hotels in Utrecht and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in Utrecht 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 Utrecht


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: Utrecht Hotel Prices and Antwerp Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Utrecht 23
    Antwerp 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $121
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $102
  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Utrecht or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and Utrecht 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
    Utrecht 58
    Antwerp 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Utrecht

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Utrecht.

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $32
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $71
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $72
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $72

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.
    Utrecht 44
    Antwerp 8.21

Tours and Activities in Utrecht

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Utrecht are as follows:

  • Hoge Woerd Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $4.34
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.51
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.52
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.60
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.50
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Lofen Palace Time Travel with Entry Ticket & Guide: $12
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Dom Tower Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $15
  • DOMunder Entry Ticket with Guide: $15
  • National Railway Museum Admission Ticket: $16

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • Historical Walking Tour in Antwerp Old City: $2.60
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.29
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.30
  • Escape Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.18
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.14
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.14
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $17
  • Walking Tour Big five Rubens' churches (audio): $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Utrecht 24
    Antwerp 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $16
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $22

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 Utrecht and Antwerp, we can see that Utrecht 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 Utrecht would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Utrecht 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 Utrecht Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Utrecht. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Antwerp?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Utrecht or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Antwerp. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Utrecht or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Antwerp. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

In the autumn, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets less rain in October than Antwerp. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Utrecht or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Antwerp can be very cold during winter. Utrecht can get quite cold in the winter. Utrecht is much colder than Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during winter. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Utrecht or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Utrecht during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the activities around the city.

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

In the spring, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in April than Antwerp. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Utrecht

Utrecht 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)