A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belgium vs. Ireland for Families, Museums & Attractions, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Belgium or Ireland?

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

Should I visit Belgium or Ireland? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which country 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.

We'll start with a quick overview, and below we will go into all of the details.

Belgium

Belgium is a diverse, quaint, and prosperous country. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, museums, and theater.

Belgium is a smaller but diverse nation with a long history, lots of attractions, and a mix of cultures. As it's at a crossroads in Europe, visitors can see influences from the native Belgian and Flemish people as well as from nearby France, Germany, and Holland. Historic and world-class cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent offer amazing cuisine, historic art and architecture, and fun activities for all types of travelers. Smaller cities such as Bruges, Liege, and Leuven let you delve into history in their historic old towns with cathedrals, charming cafes, art galleries, and carriage tours. And as a smaller country, it's easy to get around to see everything on the trains in just a few hours at the most between destinations.

Ireland

Ireland is a proud, green, and historic country. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the national parks, history and culture, nightlife, and food.

Ireland is a unique country with a deep historic culture, a beautiful countryside with rolling green hills, exciting cities, and friendly people. You'll find good food, interesting natural landscapes such as the Giant's Causeway, terrific hikes through the countryside, surfing at the beach, and cultural experiences in the cities.

Belgium and Ireland: Pros and Cons

How is Belgium different from Ireland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Below we will examine the differences and similarities between Belgium and Ireland. With this information, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Belgium or Ireland?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Belgium and Ireland.

Belgium offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. From art to history to culture, you'll find something for everyone. Some of the most popular art museums include The Magritte Museum in Brussels, François Duesberg Museum in Mons, and the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art (SMAK) in Ghent. But it's not all about art, as visitors also love the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) in Antwerp which focuses on the city's history as a maritime port. Also, science lovers should check out the Euro Space Center and the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences. For interesting history lessons, visit the Gallo-Roman Museum, Dossin Casern, and the In Flanders Fields museum.

Many visitors head to Ireland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Visitors will find a variety types of museums all across the country. History, science, art, and kid-friendly museums are everywhere, showcasing the culture, history, and life of the Irish people. A few of the best in Dublin are the Little Museum, the National Museum of Ireland with its multiple branches, the Irish Whiskey Museum, the Kilmainham Gaol, Dublinia, and the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship and Famine Museum, among others. If you're visiting Galway, check out the Galway City Museum, Lynch's Castle, Monkey Business Children's Museum, or the Fisheries Watchtower Museum. Also, in Cork, the Cork City Gaol and the Crawford Art Gallery are visitor favorites, although there are many more.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Culture, Arts, and History?

Generally, Ireland offers a larger array of history, arts, and cutlure for travelers than Belgium.

With a long list of famous historical and cultural attractions, Ireland brings in many visitors. Plenty of historical attractions are popular destinations for visitors, especially the castles, small historic towns, and huge monuments. At the Rock of Cashel, you can see the ruins of this historic and beautiful castle from the 12th century. Reginald’s Tower in Waterford is said to be the oldest building still standing in Ireland, and can be toured while also exploring the surrounding city. Glendalough is the home of a monastery and famous tower, as well as stunning natural landscapes. And at Newgrange, you can see this ancient 5000 year old megalithic cemetery. The Blarney Castle is home of the Blarney Stone, and is one of the most famous sites in the country. In Dublin, don't miss the Dublin Castle, the St. Patrick's Cathedral, or the Kilmainham Gaol, all of which showcase a selected period of Irish history. No matter which area of the country you visit, Ireland offers historic sights and attractions of all types for every age.

Belgium has many famous historic and cultural sights and attractions worth visiting, and is one of the main reasons why poeple come here. Although it's a smaller country, the history and culture here is packed into its cities and small towns. You'll find museums that focus on art, history, science, and more in many of the cities and town. For example, visit the Grand Palace in Brussels, the Castle of the Counts in Ghent, or the grand cathedrals of Antwerp. Large castles dot the countryside, many with grand views such as the one in Bouillon. Theaters are everywhere, too, so you can take in a play, opera, or the ballet in addition to enjoying the cafe culture and the unique cuisine.

See also 14 Free Things to do in Brussels.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Big City Activities?

Belgium is considered to have more larger cities than Ireland.

Belgium has some large cities, so you'll find plenty of things to do when visiting. Brussels and Antwerp are both popular destinations for visitors because of the large number of attractions and activities. In both of these cities you'll find a wide array of hotels, restaurants, historical sites, museums, and activities for every type of traveler. In Brussels, tour the Grand Palace, climb the Atomium, and go shopping at the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. In Antwerp, after admiring the historic railway station, check out the Meir area for some shopping and chocolates, the Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp, and the windows of the Diamond District.

With a variety of activities, Ireland has some large cities to explore. Dublin and Cork are the largest cities in Ireland, followed by Limerick and Galway, but even these last two have small populations compared to other cities in Europe. In Dublin you can find plenty of restaurants, cafes, museums, universities, and historic sights. Outside of this city, it's hard to find the same urban vibe. The rest of the country has smaller cities and towns and plenty of rural areas with stunning landscapes, but lacks the large city environments.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Small Towns and Villages?

Ireland is considered to have more smaller towns and villages than Belgium.

Because Ireland offers so many small towns with a variety of charming activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. A few of the smaller towns in Ireland are some of the country's most popular travel destinations. Kilkenny has a nearby castle, abbey, a gorgeous cathedral, and a historic medieval area of town. Kinsale has a quaint harbor and colorful houses. Tralee on the southern coast has beautiful seaside views and stunning cliffs. And the ring of Kerry offers even more stunning coastal views and small towns such as Portmagee. Exploring the small towns of Ireland is an absolute requirement for any itinerary, as here you'll find the true local culture and history of the island.

See also 10 Easy and Ambitious Day Trips from Dublin Ireland.

As Belgium is a destination with many small towns and villages, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Some of the more popular small towns to visit draw large crowds to see the old cathedrals, local markets, narrow canals, historic homes, and delicious local cuisine. Bruges is one of the most popular towns for travelers because it has several gorgeous cathedrals, scenic canals, museums, and terrific restaurants all packed into a small walkable area. Other popular smaller towns include Spa, where you'll find relaxing hot springs; Bouillon, home of a beautiful castle; Durbuy, with its winding narrow streets; Dinant, with cliffs above a scenic river; and Rochefort, famous for its beer from the historic monastery. But dozens more small towns are dotted around the countryside, and if you have the time, are worth visiting.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Theater?

With more venues to choose from, Belgium is more regarded as a theater destination.

If you have some extra time in Belgium, take in a show. While Brussels has the most theater productions, Antwerp, Ghent, and others host a variety of shows and concerts, too. The most popular theaters in Brussels include the Théâtre Royal du Parc, Vaux-Hall, and the KVS. For other interesting performances, don't miss the Royal Toone Theatre with its myriad of puppets or La Montagne Magique (Magic Mountain) which offers youth and children's productions in French. In Antwerp, a few of the most popular theaters are Koningin Elisabethzaal, De Roma, Stadsschouwburg, and Bourla, among others.

Ireland offers a few theater venues for visitors. Local theaters with community productions can be found in many smaller cities. In Dublin, if you're looking for a show, check out the Abbey Theatre, the Gaiety Theatre, the Smock Alley Theatre, or the Olympia Theatre. Elsewhere in Ireland, make sure to visit the National Folk Theatre in Kerry (Siamsa Tíre), or the Druid Theatre in Galway.

Is the Food Better in Belgium or Ireland? Which Country Has the Best Restaurants?

Both Belgium and Ireland offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Belgium has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. While Belgium is famous for waffles, beer, and chocolate, plenty of other traditional dishes should be on your list as well. Furthermore, as a modern and diverse nation, you can find cuisine from all over the world in the big cities such as Brussels and Antwerp. World-class chefs have started terrific restaurants serving a wide variety of dishes. But if you're after some traditional fare, try the mussels (moules), fries with garlic-mayo, Flemish stew, or Croquettes, and Vol-au-vent.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ireland area. Traditional Irish foods can be found at many restaurants around the country. One of the most popular dishes includes various forms of Irish stew that use meat, potatoes, and vegetables. Shepherd's Pie takes this stew and adds a layer of mashed potatoes to the top. Colcannon and Champ is a form of mashed potatoes that mixes in cabbage, onions, and sometimes bacon. If you're tired of potatoes, salmon in various recipes is also common and popular. Also try the black and white pudding, which is actually blood sausage and not dessert. Other popular dishes include vegetables cooked into stews with local herbs. Of course, the local beer is quite popular, too. And don't miss the more interesting forms of Irish soda bread as well.

Kinsale: For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Nightlife?

For nightlife, head to Belgium instead of Ireland.

The nightlife in Belgium has something for everybody. As the largest city, Brussels not only draws the biggest crowds in the evenings, but has also earned itself a reputation as a party-oriented city at night. With dozens of nightclubs offering every type of music, to the vibrant bar and pub scene, as well as the theater and fine dining offerings, Brussels has an active scene for both locals and visitors alike. Some of the best spots in Brussels include Madame Moustache, the Music Village, Fuse, and Spirito. Antwerp also offers its share of nightlife. Dozens of bars and clubs come alive at night here also. Ghent, Bruges, and other tourist destinations also offer plenty of bars and theaters, although the nightlife scene is not as active later in the night.

Ghent: With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Ireland. Dublin and Galway, as the two largest cities, are the obvious choices for nightlife. Dublin claims to be one of the party capitals of Europe, and offers a variety of venues from bars and pubs to undergrounds nightclubs, as well as theater, fine dining options, and relaxed bars and cafes where you can have a drink with friends. Galway has a similar scene with a mix of bars, pubs, and nightclubs, many with live music and plenty of dancing. In Cork, much of the nightlife scene is dominated by the student population of the area, as large universities are nearby. Check out SoHo and the other spots on the Grand Parade. Plenty of other towns and smaller cities offer an array of pubs, bars, and clubs, too.

Dublin: Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Beaches?

Most people pick Ireland for its beaches over Belgium.

You can check out the beach in Ireland. With a huge amount of coastline, this island nation has plenty of beaches. Some are in protected coves, while others are more exposed and have large waves popular with surfers. Despite the colder temperatures, the beaches here can still be fun because the natural scenery is beautiful. Some of the beaches are in natural coves surrounded by cliffs, rocks, and epic views. Swimming is very possible and popular in the summer months with locals and visitors alike. A few of the most popular beach areas include Inchydoney Beach in County Cork, Dog's Bay near Galway, Strandhill near Sligo, Silver Strand in Country Donegal, and Portmarnock Beach near Dublin. However, there are many more to explore.

You'll find a beach in Belgium. The relatively short stretch of coastline here has some beautiful beaches which can be enjoyed during the warmer months. Some areas are more natural with sand dunes and open spaces, while others have stretches of hotels, restaurants, cafes, and seaside attractions. Knokke-Heist is a popular area with plenty of activities and hotels. De Panne and Nieuwpoort are also extremely popular with wide, white beaches and a diverse selection of dining options. On the other hand, Bredene is more secluded for those that want to escape the crowds.

Is the Shopping Better in Belgium or Ireland?

Belgium often provides a better shopping experience than Ireland.

Belgium is well-known for its shopping. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and other major cities offer plenty of trendy shops, fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and chocolate shops. Also, you can't miss all of the diamond stores in Antwerp. Even if you're not buying, it's fun to peruse the window displays. In Brussels, make sure to visit the Royal Saint Hubert Galleries not just for the shops, but also for the architecture and history of the building. Another nice indoor spot is Passage du Nord, and Boulevard de Waterloo has plenty of upscale shops. In Antwerp, the diamond shops are located not far from the historic train station, while more of the clothing boutiques are found in De Modewijk, the fashion quarter of the city.

Brussels: 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.

Antwerp: 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.

Many visitors go to Ireland to go shopping. While the larger cities and towns such as Dublin and Galway have more variety of shops such as clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, and local galleries, even the smallest towns have nice shopping options. Some of the more popular local arts and crafts for purchase include tweed fabrics in Donegal, Aran Wool clothing items, and hand-crafted pottery. In Dublin, visitors can find several large shopping malls such as Dundram Centre, and more shops in George's Street Arcade, Liberty Market, and Cow's Lane.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Christmas?

With various activities, both Belgium and Ireland are great places to visit during Christmas.

Christmas holiday activities are popular when visiting Belgium. The large public squares of Brussels, Antwerp, and other historical cities raise large Christmas trees and decorate their town centers with lights and decorations. Many towns have festivals and parades, especially during the arrival of Sinterklaas or Pere Noel (depending on the region). Also, many small towns and big cities host Christmas markets with food, drinks, gifts, crafts, ice skating, and more. Brussels has a Winter Wonderland Christmas Market where the buildings are illuminated. Other touristy towns such as Bruges host special events with entire sections of town covered in lights and special market shops.

Many visitors go to Ireland during the Christmas season. Dublin, Galway, Cork, and many of the other towns and cities put on huge light displays during the holidays. The public squares and town centers have Christmas trees, markets, festivals, and other activities. There's even a polar swimming plunge in Dublin. Some of the famous castles and manor houses also have holiday decorations and festivities which bring in large crowds. The local pubs in many small towns become the center of activity as people gather in the warm and brightly decorated establishments. Also, many of the hotels and smaller B&B's decorate their grounds and have special dinners and parties. For the best Christmas markets, head to Cork or Galway, or even Belfast in Northern Ireland.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Hiking?

Ireland provides a better hiking experience than Belgium.

Ireland is a good destination for hiking. The rolling mountains and beautiful green countryside provide stunning hikes in all parts of the country. From the cliffside walks with epic views to the peaks in the interior of the island, there's a trail for everyone. Some of the most popular routes include the treks around Glendalough where you'll see the Spinc cliffs, waterfalls, and distant views of the lake. If you're looking for a mountain to hike, Diamond Hill in County Galway, Carrauntoohil in Kerry, or Slieve Gullion all provide stunning views, physical challenges, and plenty of wilderness opportunities.

Connemara: The landscape is considered to be some of the most beautiful in all of Ireland and there are many walks and hikes that let you experience it. Some of the best hikes are The Cong and Clonbur Forest Trail, the Claddaghduff Quay to Omey Island Walk, and Mount Gable Walk.

While not known for its hiking, Belgium has a few options. Many hiking trails are within easy reach of nearby cities and towns, making them accessible. Many are also easy hikes since Belgium has a fairly low elevation. Some of the best areas to hike include Deux Ourthes Natural Park, Southern Ardennes Natural Park, or Eifel Natural Park.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for its National Parks?

Ireland often provides a better experience visiting national parks than Belgium.

Visiting the national parks is a popular activity when in Ireland. The 6 national parks here offer stunning beauty and a variety of sights and attractions both within the parks and nearby. Five of the parks are along the western coast, and it might be best if you had your own vehicle to see some of all of them. Killarney National Park is part of the Ring of Kerry and was the first park. You can find historic manor houses, the largest mountain in the country, and a variety of wildlife. Wicklow Mountains National Park is on the eastern side, and in the area you'll find Powerscourt Gardens, Glendalough with its famous round tower, and the beautiful Glenmacnass Waterfall. In all of the parks, you'll find hiking trails, epic views, camping, castles, gardens, local wildlife, and other activities such as bird watching, horseback riding, and more.

Belgium has some national parks and wilderness areas for those that seek them out. With only two national parks and 10 other large natural protected areas, most visitors don't come here to see the wilderness. But a variety of beautiful scenery can still be found in this small country. Hiking trails and camping spots providing opportunities to see the rivers, hills, and native birds of the region. They make for a good escape from the cities if you're looking for somewhere nearby to get into nature.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Watersports?

Overall, Ireland is considered to offer more watersports activities and attractions to visitors.

The watersports and seaside activities and attractions of Ireland are worth experiencing. With a huge stretch of coastline, many visitors here participate in a variety of activities despite the relatively cooler weather. As long as you have the proper equipment for the activity, there's no reason why you can't enjoy the stunning beauty of the water. Surfing is very popular on the beaches, as the waves can be consistent and strong in many areas. Kayaking both on the coast and inland is also a great way to see Ireland from a different angle. Stand-up paddle boarding is another good option for areas with calmer waters. And many of the bays and harbors have clear waters with unique marine life, which makes wild swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling a fun activity after putting on a thick wetsuit. Wind surfing and kite surfing are also possible. As with many other activities, you'll find plenty of surf shops and tour providers that can take you to the right places with the right equipment.

Belgium does offer some watersports. The beach along the coastline offers surfing, kite surfing, wind surfing, and swimming during the warmer months. Also, plenty of the canals and rivers through the country are great spots for kayaking, boating, or swimming, too. While you can explore the waterways of the countryside by kayak or canoe, don't forget that you can often do this in the cities and towns as well, which offer a fun perspective on the historic urban areas.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Outdoor Activities?

Overall, Ireland is considered to offer more outdoor activities and attractions to visitors.

Ireland offers fun and exciting outdoor activities for visitors. As Ireland is a fairly sparsely populated country with wide open spaces and beautiful landscapes, visitors will find plenty of outdoor activities of all types. The national parks are a good place to start, as you'll find hiking, camping, horseback riding, climbing, and more. And along the lengthy coastline, visitors can experience kayaking, surfing, swimming, hiking along the cliffs, and perusing gardens and castles. Visiting farms and the other agricultural regions are also quite popular. There's no shortage of outdoor activities in Ireland, so make them part of your itinerary.

Belgium does have some outdoor activities to explore. Wildlife areas and parks are very accessible to the larger cities and towns, many by public transit. So, if you're looking to get out of the urban areas, these parks are a good option. Hiking trails, boating, swimming, and other fun activities are found all over the country. And while the country is smaller than many others, it still has scenic outdoor spots such as the West Coast (Westkust) cycling route from De Panne or the Zwin walking route in Knokke-Heist, or the Eifel Nature Park.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for a Road Trip?

Generally Ireland is better for road trips, as it offers more possibilities.

Ireland is a very popular destination for those that love to take road trips. The numerous small towns, natural scenic spots, castles, agricultural areas, and other out-of-the-way places make Ireland a terrific place for a road trip. In fact, in many ways it's easier to get around this country by car than with public transit if you're planning to visit many of these smaller sights and attractions. Many visitors make a large loop around the country from Dublin, stopping off at cliffside viewpoints, beaches, castles, small towns, and national park areas with mountains and hiking. The Ring of Kerry is a very busy area for a road trip for obvious reasons - it combines natural beauty with historical towns. The Dingle peninsula is another popular drive for similar reasons. Rental cars are generally easy to hire in Dublin or Galway, so planning a road trip through Ireland is quite easy.

Belgium is generally not the best destination for road trips, but it has a few options. To see some of the small towns in the countryside, taking a road trip might be a good option. Since the distances between cities and towns are not large, driving can be quite quick between destinations. The roads are great, and having your own car means that you can see some of the small and quaint places that are not as easy to reach by train or bus. Don't miss some of the castles (such as in Bouillon, or the monasteries that produce beer such as the one in Rochefort. Keep in mind that visiting the big cities with a car is generally not recommended since parking is limited.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Families?

There's generally more to do with your family in Ireland than Belgium.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ireland is a very family-friendly destination. Long cliff walks, castles, stunning beaches, gardens, lighthouses, and terrific museums are all some of the best things to do with families in Ireland. In Dublin, you'll find the Imaginosity Childrens Museum, the Dublin Zoo, the Natural History Museum, and Dublin Castle to name a few. Not far from Dublin you can find more castles, the Medieval Museum in Waterford, and Viking history. On the west coast, don't miss the cliffs of Moher, with their epic views, or the ancient stones of the Burren. And the small towns of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula are fun for everyone, too.

Belgium is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. From fairy-tale cities such as Bruges to the large cathedrals filled with lights, and from the horse-drawn carriage rides and playgrounds to the old Castle of the Counts in Ghent, kids will be very entertained here. After all, this is the country of waffles and chocolate, and the adults can have a Belgian beer on the side, too. Many of the cities are also bike-friendly, which adds to the fun if you want to take a tour on two wheels. Or hop on a boat tour as Ghent, Bruges, and many others have canals and rivers with scenic views, too. And Brussels offers the Pixel Museum which is all about gaming and technology, as well as a puppet theater and various other art and history museums. You can also get into the outdoors to visit hiking trails and national parks, as well as interesting caves. And any kids interested in military history should visit Waterloo as well as the trenches of Ypres

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Belgium and Ireland make for a great place to visit.

Belgium makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While it might not be the first place that couples think of, the big cities such as Brussels and Antwerp offer plenty of charming and romantic activities. Furthermore, many of the castles and chateaus in the countryside have been turned into luxury hotels, so you can experience history and luxury together. Hikes from some of the small villages to nearby castles are common any time of the year, especially in the spring and fall. And whether you're in a small town or one of the big cities, you'll find chocolate, waffles, and beer all over, not to mention plenty of other gourmet food options for that romantic evening out on the town. Theaters are also common, so take in a show or a concert after dinner.

See also Hostels for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups in Bruges, and Hostels for Solo Travellers, Female Travellers, & Couples in Brussels.

Ireland is a good country for couples to visit. The larger cities as well as the countryside offer plenty of romantic places such as Powerscourt Gardens, the famous and well-photographed Wicklow National Park, the many castles and manors around the island, and the fine dining restaurants and theaters of the cities. Many of the small towns are very picturesque and have plenty of activities for couples, not to mention the quaint bed and breakfasts and walking trails out into the countryside. Don't miss Ashford Castle, Adare Manor, or the Latin Quarter of Galway full of boutiques and cobblestone alleyways. Whether you're on a honeymoon in Ireland or just looking for a romantic weekend getaway, you'll find plenty of romantic opportunities here.

See also Hostels in Galway, Ireland for Backpackers, Couples, and Groups, and Hostels in Killarney for Solo Travellers, Couples, and Small Groups.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Travelers usually think of Ireland as a better destination for backpackers than Belgium.

Many backpackers visit Ireland. Ireland can be a very affordable destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the large number of lower-cost accommodations, affordable public transportation, and variety of cheaper food options. Hostels are common, especially in the larger cities and towns, as are budget-friendly hotels. Also, many of the sights and attractions are outdoors which means that they are often free or have cheaper entrance fees. Many of Ireland's best attractions are the cliffside or wilderness hikes such as those at the Cliffs of Moher (around €10), Glendalough in Wicklow Mountains National Park, or the Howth Cliff Walk loop. For food, if you eat your meals at a pub or small sandwich shop, you can save plenty of money. Many pubs also have a set menu as an early dinner which is cheaper if you arrive before 6:00 p.m. The trains and buses are also very affordable, especially since the country is not so large that every destination is just a few hours away at the most.

See also Dublin Hostels Near Temple Bar, Social Hostels in Dublin, Ireland, and Hostels for Groups in Dublin, Ireland.

Belgium is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and other major tourist destinations might not be the most budget-friendly places, but plenty of hostels and low-cost accommodations can be found in and around the cities. Furthermore, food at most restaurants is reasonably priced, especially if you avoid the touristy areas and the higher-end establishments. In generally, there's plenty of activities which are free or low in price. And younger travelers tend to enjoy Belgium's vibrant nightlife and bar scene, which is especially popular in Brussels as well as Antwerp, Ghent, and elsewhere. Transportation is also cheap and readily available.

See also Brussels Hotels & Hostels Near Grand Place, Hostels for Large Groups and Parties in Brussels, and Hostels for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups in Bruges.

Is Belgium or Ireland Better for Students?

For students, both Belgium and Ireland are great places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Belgium. With major universities attracting students from all over the world, along with an active nightlife and bar scene, as well as affordable travel options, this country is a pretty good place for students. You'll find hostels, affordable food, fun cafes, and cheap activities in Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and other cities. The largest university areas are found in Brussels, Leuven, Liege, Ghent, and Antwerp, so you might want to focus on these areas if you're visiting or are interested in studying abroad.

Ghent: The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

See also Hostels for Backpackers and Students in Belgium.

Ireland is a good country to visit for students. With a variety of affordable accommodation options and active student neighborhoods featuring nightlife, cafes, and activities, it's easy to see why Ireland offers a lot for students. Various universities around the country draw large number of students both from Ireland and around the world. Dublin, Galway, and Limerick all have multiple universities and active student scenes.

See also Hostels in Ireland for Students and Backpackers.

Is Belgium or Ireland Easier for Transportation? Which is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Belgium has better transportation options to get you around the region.

Belgium has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the country. The combination of the national train system, city trams and buses, great roads, and a good network of bike paths makes this one of the easiest countries to get around. Belgium is fairly small as a country, so the major cities and towns are not too far apart. The trains run frequently and efficiently, as do the local city trams and buses. Roads are well built for those that want to drive, too.

Is it easy to travel around Belgium?

• Traveling by train is extremely popular.
• Traveling by bus is very common and fairly easy.
• It's possible to travel with an organized tour.
• It's possible to travel by car.
• Travel by airplane is possible.

The transportation system in Ireland can get you almost everywhere very easily. The train system in Ireland can take you almost anywhere you want to go, and fairly quickly and efficiently too. The bus system is also great, and can get you to many more destinations if the trains can't. The prices are affordable and the trains are safe and clean, just as anywhere else in Europe. The roads are also very good and it's easy to rent a car to get around the country. In fact, if you're planning to visit many of the smaller towns along the coastline, such as in the Ring of Kerry, having a car is necessary because of a lack of transit options. Some of the national parks are also difficult to visit without a car, too. Otherwise, every larger city and town is accessible with trains or buses.

Is it easy to travel around Ireland?

• Traveling by train is extremely popular.
• Traveling by bus is very common and fairly easy.
• Travel on ferry boats is possible.
• It's possible to travel on cruise ships and excursions.
• It's quite common to get around if you join an organized tour.
• It's fairly easy to travel by car.
• Travel by airplane is possible.

Is Belgium or Ireland more Comfortable for a Trip?

Both Belgium and Ireland can feel quite modern and comfortable as they both have an established tourist infrastructure.

People often come to Belgium because it is such a comfortable and luxurious destination. Modern European comforts and luxuries are found everywhere here, so whether you're traveling to the cities or the countryside, you can expect modern conveniences. The larger cities have the most variation in price ranges for accommodations and restaurants, but at any price range you can expect modern facilities and quality service. Transportation is efficient and safe, and a large network of infrastructure for both locals and tourists alike can be found everywhere. The food is also excellent, clean, and safe no matter where you visit in Belgium. So, whether your a family looking for comfortable places for the kids, a couple on a romantic break, or a younger backpacker on a tight budget, everyone can expect to travel around efficiently and in comfort.

Ireland is extremely comfortable for travelers as it is a modern destination with plenty of amenities. Ireland is a modern and prosperous country with a high standard of living. So, as a traveler you can expect plenty of modern comforts no matter your price range, as even budget hotels will have clean, modern facilities and nice amenities. The public transportation network as well as the road are of high quality and are very efficient. Visitors will find plenty of infrastructure for tourists such as tours, taxis, hotel concierges, and more. And of course, plenty of luxury hotels and tour providers are also available if you seek a higher level of comfort.

Is Belgium or Ireland more Touristy?

Both Belgium and Ireland host many visitors every year.

Belgium has a reasonable number of visitors. Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Liege are the most popular destinations for visitors. They each see fairly large numbers of travelers, especially in the summer months. However, the cities themselves are large enough so that any particular area isn't overcrowded and the cities are easily manageable. Bruges is an especially popular place to visit, as this smaller city offers many attractions, so it can feel much more touristy than other places. Also, specific areas of each city are popular, such as the Castle of Counts in Ghent which sometimes has a long queue to enter. Other popular attractions include the Grand Palace in Brussels, the Belfry in Ghent, Bouillon Castle, and Waterloo. It's common to experience crowds at these locations and other popular spots, but again, it's usually manageable.

Ireland is fairly touristy, with a decent number of visitors coming each year. Most visitors arrive in the summer months when the weather is warmer, but even then, the tourist crowds are not too bad. Even so, visiting in the shoulder season or in the winter will lead to a trip with less crowds. The most popular tourist attractions are the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, Glendalough, Powerscourt Gardens, The Rock of Cashel, Killarney and its surroundings, and the Blarney Castle. In Dublin, some neighborhoods can be quite busy such as Grafton Street, as well as the museums, Trinity College, and the Kilmainham Gaol. And while all of these places do see plenty of visitors, it's still manageable and accessible during the busy summer months.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland, The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Ireland, The Best Adventure Tours to Ireland, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Ireland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Ireland, The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dublin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Dublin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin.

Should I spend more time in Ireland or Belgium?

How long in Belgium or Ireland?

Belgium and Ireland both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ireland than Belgium because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Belgium, and 5-14 days is enough time in Ireland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ireland than Belgium 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 Ireland.

A weekend in Belgium or Ireland?

In Belgium, you'll find museums, theater, and history and culture. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Ireland, you'll find nightlife, food, and water sports. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the history and culture. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Belgium or Ireland?

Belgium is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Belgium has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Ireland is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ireland has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belgium or Ireland?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belgium. In Belgium, you'll find history and culture, nightlife, and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ireland. In Ireland, you'll find water sports, hiking, and shopping. One reason most visitors come is for the history and culture. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Two weeks in Belgium or Ireland?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belgium. Many people enjoy the history and culture, nightlife, and food when visiting Belgium. Two weeks is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ireland. In Ireland, you'll find water sports, hiking, and shopping. One reason most visitors come is for the history and culture. Two weeks is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ireland has to offer.

When comparing the travel costs between Belgium and Ireland, we can see that Ireland 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.

When is the best time to visit Belgium or Ireland?

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 Belgian climate in northern Europe experiences four seasons with cooler summers and cold wet winters. While the temperatures are often cold in the winter, it only snows periodically near the coast. And because the summers are not too hot, the weather is very pleasant during this popular time to visit.

Ireland can see its share of cold weather, especially on the coast during the wet winters. The summer months are mild with temperatures that are comfortable but not too warm. This makes it a great place to escape the summer heat from other destinations while taking in the country's history and culture. In fact, the weather can be wet at times and change suddenly, too. But it rarely snows in the winter, so don't be afraid to visit during the off season, too.

Should I visit Belgium or Ireland in the Summer?

Both Ireland and Belgium are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Belgium because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ireland this time of year.

Brussels is a little warmer than Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Dublin. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Belgium or Ireland in the Autumn?

Both Ireland and Belgium during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Belgium this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ireland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Dublin. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belgium or Ireland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Belgium and Ireland. Many travelers come to Belgium for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ireland in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In January, Brussels is generally much colder than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dublin. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Belgium or Ireland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Belgium as well as Ireland. Many visitors come to Belgium in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Ireland for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Brussels is a little warmer than Dublin in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Dublin. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Brussels