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

Should you visit Antwerp or Bremen?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Bremen can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a youthful, vibrant, and authentic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Antwerp travel costs.

Bremen

Bremen is a colorful, lively, and historic city. The beauty of Bremen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bremen travel costs.

Antwerp and Bremen: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Bremen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp. Although Antwerp and Bremen are both popular with visitors, Antwerp has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Antwerp is more popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Bremen is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bremen is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its beautiful historic center and its role as a cultural hub in Germany. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Bremen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antwerp
Bremen

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Antwerp and Bremen.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bremen can be an interesting and educational experience. Many of the city's landmarks are located around the famous Marktplatz. You can tour the Bremen Town Hall or wander around the Medieval Schnoor Quarter. Also make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Peter.


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

Antwerp
Bremen

Antwerp is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Antwerp is an experience not to be missed. 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!

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bremen. The food is hearty and filling with many meat heavy dishes. Vegetarians may struggle to find local options. Traditional regional dishes include Kohl und Pinkel (kale and sausage), Labskaus (meat and stew), and fried smelt.

Is Antwerp or Bremen Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Bremen

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Antwerp and Bremen.

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

Many people head to Bremen for the nightlife scene. There's a variety of evening activities including cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and fine dining restaurants. Head to the Viertel District for some of the most lively clubs.

Is Antwerp or Bremen Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Bremen

Bremen 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, Bremen offers plenty to see. The old town is beautiful with its charming streets and beautiful buildings. There's a main market square which is filled with many landmarks and tourist sights.

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 Antwerp or Bremen?

Antwerp
Bremen

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Antwerp is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bremen. The city offers a mix of historic shopping areas and large shopping malls. Some of the biggest shopping malls include Karstadt Bremen, Lloyd Passage, and Weserpark.

Is Antwerp or Bremen More Beautiful?

Antwerp
Bremen

Bremen is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Bremen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city has a beautiful atmosphere with an old town that feels like you've stepped back in time.

Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Antwerp or Bremen Better for Families?

Antwerp
Bremen

Bremen is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bremen is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will appreciate a Sunday visit to the Bremen Town Musicians play which performs popular fairy tales. If the season isn't right, there are many other kid-friendly activities around town including Bürgerpark, the puppet theater, or visiting the beach at Café Sand. Popular museums in town for kids include Universum and Bremer Geschichtenhaus.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. 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 Antwerp or Bremen Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Bremen

Both Antwerp and Bremen are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Bremen is a good port city for couples to visit. From its beautiful old town to its many great restaurants and shopping streets, couples will enjoy a romantic trip away in this beautiful city.

Is Antwerp or Bremen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Bremen

Antwerp and Bremen are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bremen. Backpackers love the old town and lively atmosphere. There are enough tourists around that you'll find a decent social scene and the atmosphere makes for a great visit.

Is Antwerp or Bremen Better for Students?

Antwerp
Bremen

Antwerp is notable for students. However, Bremen is not popular with students.

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.

Bremen is not popular with students.


Is Antwerp or Bremen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antwerp
Bremen

Bremen 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.

Bremen has some very good public transit options. The city has both trams and buses that offer easy accessibility to most of the tourist areas.

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 Antwerp or Bremen a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Bremen

Bremen 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 Bremen on foot is easy. It's one of the most walkable cities in Europe.

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 Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Bremen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bremen or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Bremen?

It's fun to spend time in either Antwerp or Bremen. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bremen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-4 days is enough time in Bremen.

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

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


  • How many days in Antwerp or Bremen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Bremen 2-4

One day in Antwerp or Bremen?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bremen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Antwerp or Bremen?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Bremen, 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 Bremen has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Bremen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bremen 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 Antwerp or Bremen?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Antwerp. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bremen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bremen. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Belgium, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Belgium, The Best Music Tours in Germany, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bremen or Antwerp?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €152, while the average daily cost in Bremen is €173. 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 Antwerp and Bremen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Bremen 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Bremen 152
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Bremen

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Bremen? 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 Antwerp


Hotels in Bremen


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: Antwerp Hotel Prices and Bremen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Bremen 45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $178
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $190
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $191

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Bremen?

Prices for flights to both Bremen and Antwerp 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
    Antwerp 68
    Bremen 63

Typical Food Prices in Bremen

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bremen are as follows:


  • Croissant & Cappacino
    3.90
  • Fish and Chips
    3.20
  • Pizza and Cola
    7.00
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    8.00
  • Vietnamese Soup
    5.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee
    8.00
  • Pastry and Coffee
    4.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Bremen 34

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.57
  • Historical Walking Tour in Antwerp Old City: $3.57
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.57
  • A Taste of Antwerp Tasting Tour: $3.58
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $23
  • Discover Antwerp with this Outside Escape city game tour!: $30
  • Historical Old Harbour Boat Tour in Antwerp: $30
  • Antwerp Bike Tours: $36
  • Guided Bike Tour: 2 Hours Highlights of Antwerp: $38
  • 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $43
  • Antwerp Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour): $65

Tours and Activities in Bremen

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

  • The Bremen Town Musicians - 50th anniversary tour of the German Fairytale Route: $8.81
  • Public Tour of the Town Hall (Tour in English): $11
  • Kunsthalle Bremen admission ticket: $12
  • Walking Tour of Historic Schnoor District: $14
  • Night Watchman Guided Tour for Children (in German): $14
  • City Center Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Old Town Tour with Costumed Performer & Tour Guide: $19
  • Underworld Tour with the Cellar of the Theatre: $19
  • Underground Guided Tour: $19
  • Bremen from above! Rooftop tour with the roof of the Kunsthalle Bremen: $19
  • Walking Tour in German with Night Guard: $19
  • Truth or lie? - A special tour through Bremen's Old town: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Bremen 34

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 Crawl : $72

Sample the Local Flavors in Bremen

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bremen:

  • 3-Hour Beck's Brewery Tour: $28
  • Private pub crawl with insider-guide & free shots: $334


When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Bremen, we can see that Bremen 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.

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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Bremen?

Bremen has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Bremen, 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 Antwerp or Bremen?

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 Antwerp or Bremen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Bremen. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bremen this time of year.

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

In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bremen. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Antwerp or Bremen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Bremen. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bremen for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally a little warmer than Bremen. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Bremen fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

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

Antwerp usually gets more rain in October than Bremen. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Bremen 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Bremen in the Winter?

Both Bremen and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bremen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bremen can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is much warmer than Bremen in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bremen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Bremen during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bremen. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Bremen 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Bremen in the Spring?

Both Bremen and Antwerp during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bremen for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Antwerp is around the same temperature as Bremen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Bremen averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 153 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bremen. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Bremen and Antwerp

Antwerp Bremen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 1°C (33°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)