Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Utrecht?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in 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.
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Utrecht.
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Antwerp.
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Utrecht are as follows:
Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:
Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
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?.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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) |