A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Playa del Carmen for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

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 Brussels and Playa del Carmen. 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.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brussels travel costs.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant, picture-perfect, and scenic town. Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Brussels and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Playa del Carmen. Brussels is bigger than Playa del Carmen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Playa del Carmen is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

Brussels is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Brussels or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Brussels is an experience not to be missed. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Playa del Carmen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Playa del Carmen for its luxury resorts. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Playa del Carmen offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen offers some nice hiking trails. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Playa del Carmen is very family-friendly. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Playa del Carmen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen Better for Students?

Brussels is a great destination for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Brussels is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Brussels or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Playa del Carmen on foot is easy. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

Both Brussels and Playa del Carmen have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-7 days is enough time in Playa del Carmen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Playa del Carmen if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Brussels.

One day in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The beautiful town of Playa del Carmen offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Playa del Carmen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

Brussels is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Playa del Carmen has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Playa del Carmen, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Playa del Carmen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brussels is in Europe and Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Playa del Carmen 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels than you might in Playa del Carmen.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Playa del Carmen, 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 Brussels or Playa del Carmen?

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 Brussels or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

Both Playa del Carmen and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Brussels is generally much colder than Playa del Carmen. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. In July, Brussels usually receives less rain than Playa del Carmen. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

Both Playa del Carmen and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Brussels is much colder than Playa del Carmen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Playa del Carmen. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Should I visit Brussels or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Playa del Carmen. Many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Playa del Carmen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmen. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Playa del Carmen. Most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Brussels is generally much colder than Playa del Carmen. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Playa del Carmen. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Brussels