Belgium might be small, but it’s got great spots to explore - especially when you’re trying to decide between Antwerp vs Brussels for your next city break. Both cities have their own unique charm, rich history, and plenty to explore. But if you're short on time and need to pick just one, this guide will give you a full breakdown of what to expect in each. While we can’t declare a winner (you can’t really go wrong with either), we can help you figure out which one suits your travel plans better.
General first impressions
Brussels, Belgium’s capital, is big, busy, and full of international institutions. It’s home to the EU headquarters, massive parks, and a mix of cultures. It’s a place where you’ll hear five languages on the same tram ride. The city centre has both grand buildings and graffiti-covered alleys - and the Manneken Pis statue is definitely smaller than you think.
Antwerp, on the other hand, feels more compact, creative, and lived-in. It’s Belgium’s fashion capital, with a strong art and design scene. The streets are lined with independent boutiques, hidden bars, and more bikes than cars. It’s got a gritty charm but still looks polished in the right places.
Things to do and see
Brussels: Bigger, busier, more icons
Brussels is packed with museums, historical sites, and cultural institutions. You can visit:
- Grand Place – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe.
- Atomium – A weird and wonderful landmark from the 1958 World’s Fair.
- Royal Palace and Magritte Museum – Great for history and art lovers.
- Parc du Cinquantenaire – For a walk or picnic between museums.
Food here is serious business: Belgian waffles, frites with mayo, and beer bars on every corner. There’s a lot to do, but you’ll also deal with traffic, crowds, and the occasional underwhelming tourist trap.
Antwerp: Cool, creative, and walkable
Visit Antwerp Belgium if you love artsy neighbourhoods, fewer tourists, and stylish locals. Don’t miss:
- Cathedral of Our Lady – Stunning Gothic architecture and Rubens paintings.
- MAS Museum – Modern, massive, and the rooftop view is free.
- Meir Shopping Street – High street fashion meets grand old buildings.
- Zurenborg – A hidden gem full of Art Nouveau houses and cafés.
Antwerp also has a vibrant nightlife scene with great bars and clubs that attract a younger, more local crowd. And if you’re into fashion, the Antwerp Six and MoMu (Fashion Museum) make this city a standout.
Getting in and out
If you’re flying into Belgium, it’s worth noting that Antwerp Airport is quite small and not widely used for international flights. Most people arrive via Brussels Airport, which has far more connections and is just 45 minutes by train from Antwerp.
Train travel in Belgium is fast and cheap. You can easily base yourself in one city and visit the other as a day trip. But if you're picking one as a home base, it's worth considering your arrival and departure plans.
Language and local feel
Both cities speak Dutch and French, though Antwerp leans more Dutch-speaking, while Brussels is officially bilingual (though French dominates). English is widely spoken in both places, especially among younger locals and in hospitality.
Brussels has a more international feel - it’s common to meet people from across Europe and beyond. Antwerp feels more local and authentic, especially in neighbourhood cafés and markets. You’ll probably hear less English outside the tourist areas, but locals are friendly and happy to help.
Prices and Budget
In terms of cost, Brussels can be slightly more expensive when it comes to hotels and restaurants, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Antwerp tends to be more affordable across the board - plus it has more hostels and budget-friendly Airbnb options.
Both cities are walkable, but Antwerp wins here. You can explore most of it on foot or by bike, which saves time and money. In Brussels, you’ll need to rely on trams and metros a bit more.
Crowd levels and tourist density
Antwerp vs Brussels also comes down to how much of a crowd you want to deal with.
Brussels is a capital city with year-round tourists and a lot of commuters. It’s livelier but also more hectic. Major attractions like the Atomium or Grand Place are always packed.
Antwerp has fewer tourists, especially outside of peak summer months. You’ll see more locals going about their day, which makes for a more relaxed, authentic vibe. Plus, you can get a seat at a popular café without a 30-minute wait.
Nightlife and food scene
Antwerp punches above its weight when it comes to food and nightlife. Trendy wine bars, top-rated vegan spots, and nightclubs in converted warehouses all make it a great place to go out.
The local beer scene is excellent, and there’s a stronger indie and underground scene here than in Brussels.
Brussels has more choice due to its size, and its international population brings serious diversity to the food scene. You’ll find Ethiopian, Korean, Lebanese, and more. But it also has more touristy spots with inflated prices and average quality.
If you're into creative food and discovering cool bars, visit Antwerp when going to Belgium - it’s less polished but way more fun.
Day trips and nearby spots
Brussels is better positioned for quick trips to other major Belgian cities like Ghent, Bruges, and Leuven. If you want to cover a lot of ground without switching hotels, Brussels makes a great launch pad.
Antwerp also has good train connections, but your options are more limited if you’re trying to explore Belgium extensively without changing bases.
Both cities are worth visiting, and if your trip allows, doing both is totally doable. But if you have to pick one - now you’ve got the info to make the right call!
Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:
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