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

Should you visit Utrecht or Brussels?

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

Should I visit Utrecht 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.

Utrecht

This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Utrecht or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Utrecht, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Utrecht is known for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Utrecht is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Utrecht different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels 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 Brussels?

Brussels 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.

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.

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 Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Utrecht or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Utrecht is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

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 Utrecht or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Utrecht is one of the most recognized in the world. 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 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Brussels?

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

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.

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 Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly . 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.

Is Utrecht or Brussels Better for Couples?

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

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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.

Is Utrecht or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Utrecht and Brussels are superb destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Utrecht. 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.

Many 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.

Is Utrecht or Brussels Better for Students?

Utrecht and Brussels are both superb 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.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit in Utrecht can get you to some places easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

Is Utrecht or Brussels a more walkable city?

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

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.

Brussels is a very walkable . 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 Utrecht Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Brussels?

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

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

The beautiful of Utrecht offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

A weekend in Utrecht or Brussels?

Utrecht is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Utrecht, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Brussels 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. 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 Brussels has to offer.

Five days in Utrecht or Brussels?

Utrecht 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.

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Utrecht or Brussels?

Utrecht is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Utrecht and Brussels, we can see that Utrecht is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Brussels would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brussels 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 Brussels.

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

Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Utrecht. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Brussels. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Utrecht is around the same temperature as Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Utrecht or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Brussels. The autumn months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the shopping 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 the autumn, Utrecht is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Utrecht in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Brussels. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Utrecht or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Utrecht 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. It's quite cold in Utrecht in the winter. In January, Utrecht is generally much colder than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 2°C (36°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during winter. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Utrecht or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Utrecht during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city.

Utrecht is cooler than Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Utrecht