A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bruges vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Bruges or Toronto?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Toronto. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a charming, historic, and cultural city. Bruges is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Bruges travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Toronto travel costs.

Bruges and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Toronto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Toronto than Bruges. Toronto is bigger than Bruges, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Toronto is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges is more popular for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Toronto and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Toronto is well known for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. Also, Toronto is famous for the CN Tower.

How is Bruges different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bruges or Toronto?

Toronto is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Toronto has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Is the Food Better in Bruges or Toronto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Bruges and Toronto offer very good local cuisine and restaurants.

Bruges has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Toronto makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Bruges or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Toronto is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Bruges or Toronto Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is terrific for its historic old town. However, Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Bruges has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Toronto does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Toronto?

Toronto is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Toronto specifically to go shopping. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Bruges or Toronto More Beautiful?

Bruges is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Bruges is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This charming city is lined with stunning architecture and quaint storefronts. Many people consider this to be one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bruges or Toronto Better for Families?

Toronto is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toronto. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Bruges or Toronto Better for Couples?

Bruges and Toronto both very good destinations for a couple.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit for couples. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Bruges or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bruges and Toronto are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Toronto. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Is Bruges or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

Toronto is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

Bruges is not popular with students.

Is Bruges or Toronto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Toronto is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Toronto has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Bruges or Toronto a more walkable city?

Bruges is terrific for its walkability. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Bruges. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Toronto is a very walkable city. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Toronto?

Both Bruges and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Toronto than in Bruges. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bruges, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toronto than Bruges 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 Toronto.

One day in Bruges or Toronto?

In Bruges, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Toronto is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bruges or Toronto?

In Bruges, 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 Bruges has to offer.

Toronto is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Toronto?

Bruges is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toronto. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bruges or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bruges. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bruges. 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.

Toronto is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Belgium, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bruges and Toronto, we can see that Toronto is more expensive. And not only is Bruges much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bruges is in Europe and Toronto is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bruges would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bruges 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 Toronto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toronto than you might in Bruges.

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Toronto, 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 Bruges or Toronto?

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 Bruges or Toronto in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Bruges is cooler than Toronto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bruges in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Toronto averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toronto this time of the year. In Bruges, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Toronto during summer. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Bruges or Toronto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Toronto. The autumn months attract visitors to Bruges because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

In October, Bruges is generally a little warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 12°C (54°F), and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Toronto. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in October than Toronto. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Toronto in the Winter?

Both Toronto and Bruges 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 Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Toronto. It's quite cold in Bruges in the winter. Bruges is much warmer than Toronto in the winter. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Toronto during winter. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bruges usually receives more rain than Toronto. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bruges or Toronto in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Bruges is a little warmer than Toronto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bruges in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Toronto averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Toronto. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in April than Toronto. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Bruges