A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Victoria for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Brussels or Victoria?

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 Victoria. 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 historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Brussels travel costs.

Victoria

Victoria is a scenic, relaxing, and cultural city. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Victoria travel costs.

Brussels and Victoria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Brussels or Victoria?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Victoria. Brussels is bigger than Victoria, 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 Victoria is more popular for its hiking. Victoria is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its colonial buildings and public parks. 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)
La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Victoria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Victoria 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 Victoria?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. 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.

Victoria is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several popular museums like the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Also make sure you check out the Parliament Buildings.


Is the Food Better in Brussels or Victoria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Brussels has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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).

Victoria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find tons of fresh seafood around town. Make sure you try to the Dungeness crab, wild caught salmon, and fish chowder.

Is Brussels or Victoria Better for Nightlife?

Brussels
Victoria

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Victoria.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Victoria has a few options to choose from. There are a good number of bars and pubs around town. Most offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink in a casual setting.

Is Brussels or Victoria Better for its Old Town?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Victoria does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Victoria does not have a historic old town.


Is Brussels or Victoria Better for Hiking?

Brussels
Victoria

Victoria is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Victoria offers some nice hiking trails. There are many outdoor spaces and parks that offer local hiking trails. This is a great way to experience the scenic beauty of the area.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Victoria?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. 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.

Victoria is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of larger shopping malls as well as local boutiques and farmer's markets.

Is Brussels or Victoria Better for Families?

Brussels
Victoria

Both Brussels and Victoria are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Victoria is very family-friendly. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and get the energy out. Walking trails are popular. You can also do the Malahat SkyWalk which offers impressive views. Cadboro-Gyro Park has a playground, zip-line, and picnic areas. Another hightlight for kids is a visit to the Beacon Hill Children's Farm. If the weather isn't cooperating, you can visit the BC Aviation Museum.


Is Brussels or Victoria Better for Couples?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels and Victoria both excellent destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Victoria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city offers many great activities for couples such as a visit to Hatley Park and Castle. The city is also famous for its many flower gardens which are best visited in spring. Kayaking, hiking, and exploring are also favorite activities for couples.

Is Brussels or Victoria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Victoria is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brussels. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Victoria. There are a few hostels around town that attract the backpacker and budget traveler crowd.

Is Brussels or Victoria Better for Students?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Victoria is not popular with students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Victoria is not popular with students.


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

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Victoria is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Victoria. While there are buses, it's best not to count on them because they're not particularly reliable.

Is Brussels or Victoria a more walkable city?

Brussels
Victoria

Brussels and Victoria both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Victoria is a very walkable city. Many of the sights are close by and easy to walk to.

For even more information, also check out Is Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Victoria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Victoria or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Victoria?

It's fun to spend time in either Brussels or Victoria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Brussels due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-4 days is enough time in Victoria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Victoria 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.


  • How many days in Brussels or Victoria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brussels 1-5 
    Victoria 3-4

One day in Brussels or Victoria?

Brussels is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Victoria offers food and shopping. 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 Victoria?

Brussels is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Victoria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Victoria?

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Victoria is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Victoria?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Victoria is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Adventure Tours to Canada, and The Best Eco Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Victoria or Brussels?

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 Brussels is €165, while the average daily cost in Victoria is €171. 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 Brussels and Victoria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brussels 73
    Victoria 96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brussels 146
    Victoria 192
Compare Hotels in Brussels and Victoria

Looking for a hotel in Brussels or Victoria? 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 Brussels


Hotels in Victoria


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: Brussels Hotel Prices and Victoria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brussels 17
    Victoria 31
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    4.50
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Transfer from Antwerp <-> Amsterdam Shuttle (1 to 8 Places): $191
  • Transfer Brussels Midi Station <-> Bruges (1 - 8 PL): $96
  • Transfer Brussels Airport -> Brussels MB S-CLASS 3 PAX: $167
  • Shuttle transfer Brussels <-> Lille (1 to 8 PLACES): $121
  • Private transfer from Brussels to Ostend, 2h Sightseeing Stop: $263
  • Private door-to-door transfer from Brussels to Lille, France: $191
  • Private direct transfer from Brussels to Ostend: $191
  • Private Transfer: Brussels Hotel to Zaventem Airport: $179
  • Private Transfer from/to Brussels Zaventem Airport: $106
  • Private Transfer From Brussels To Circuit SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS Belgium Luxury car : $238
  • Private Departure Transfer from Brussels City to Brussels Airport by luxury car: $86
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Brussels Airport to Ghent by Luxury car: $178

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Victoria

Also for Victoria, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Victoria City Hotels to Nanaimo Cruise Port: $130
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer: $77
  • Victoria to Vancouver - Vancouver Airport (YVR) Drop Off - Coach Bus Transfer: $91
  • Victoria to Vancouver Ferry with Bus Transfer: $75
  • Victoria to Vancouver Scenic Seaplane Transfer: One Way: $289
  • Private Cruise Transfer with City Sightseeing Tour: $682

Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or Victoria?

Prices for flights to both Victoria and Brussels 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
    Brussels 66
    Victoria 40
Typical Food Prices in Brussels

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    4.60
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    4.75
  • Cheese
    5.60
  • Olives and Snacks
    6.98
  • Waffle
    3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.

  • Chocolate and Beer Food Tour of Brussels: $47
  • Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local: $99
  • Brussels Food Tour with Full Meal & Drinks by Do Eat Better: $118
  • Brussels Food Tour: 10 Tastings of Waffles, Beers, Fries & More: $133
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $179
  • Brussels Food Tour: Private & Personalized with a Local Guide: $240

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Victoria

For Victoria, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Chinatown and Old Town Food Tour with Tastings: $86
  • Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria: $88
  • Vistas and Views Food Tour with 3-Course Meal: $100
  • Sip, Savor, Stroll Evening Food Tour: $144
  • Gourmet Dinner Tour Including Local Beer, Wine and City Highlights: $219

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brussels 23
    Victoria 39

Tours and Activities in Brussels

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

  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in the templar village of Lissewege: $82
  • 2-Hour Walking Tour in Fall and Rise of Art Nouveau: $18
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $269
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $12
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $12
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $9.99
  • Architecture Tour of Brussels: $30
  • Art Nouveau's Sublime Capital: An Audio Tour in Brussels: $12
  • Artistic Bruges on a Private Tour with a local: $78
  • Best Intro tour of Brussels with a Local: $166
  • Bike tour Brussels highlights and hidden gems: $39
  • Bright Brussels Highlights BikeTour ENGLISH: $38

Tours and Activities in Victoria

For Victoria, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 2.5-Hour: $5.02
  • Butterfly Gardens Admission Ticket: $15
  • Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $15
  • Iconic & Obscure Victoria Walking Tour: $16
  • Walking Tour through History and Heritage: $17
  • Ghost Tour of Old Town and Bastion Square: $17
  • Halloween Ghostly Walking Tour in Victoria: $17
  • Royal B.C. Museum in Full-Day Admission Ticket: $21
  • Axe Throwing Experience: $24
  • Heritage Horse-Drawn Carriage Experience in Victoria: $26
  • Malahat SkyWalk Tickets: $32
  • Upper Gorge Waterway Paddle Boarding Tour: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brussels 13
    Victoria 14
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    10
  • Beer
    6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Beer tasting in a Brussels Micro Brewery and Distillery: $30
  • Beer & Chocolate Tasting in a Brewery-Distillery: $79

Sample the Local Flavors in Victoria

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

  • Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery: $21
  • Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers: $52
  • Local Brewery Tour with a Guide: $86
  • Victoria, BC: Food & Wine Tour to the Cowichan Valley: $118
  • 6-Hour Victoria to Cowichan Wine Tour: $126
  • Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie: $132
  • Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour : $143
  • Cowichan Valley Premium Wine Tour: $474


When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Victoria, we can see that Victoria 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. Even though Brussels is in Europe and Victoria is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Brussels or Victoria?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Victoria. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Victoria, 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 Victoria?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Brussels or Victoria in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Victoria. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Victoria this time of year.

In July, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Victoria. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Victoria fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Victoria. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Victoria receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brussels 18°C (65°F) 
    Victoria 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Victoria in the Autumn?

Both Victoria and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Victoria for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Victoria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Victoria fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In October, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Victoria. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Victoria receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brussels 12°C (54°F) 
    Victoria 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Victoria in the Winter?

Both Victoria and Brussels during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Victoria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Victoria can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Victoria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Victoria averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Victoria gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Victoria. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Victoria receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brussels 3°C (38°F) 
    Victoria 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Victoria in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Victoria. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Victoria. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Victoria fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Victoria. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Victoria receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brussels 10°C (49°F) 
    Victoria 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Victoria and Brussels

Brussels Victoria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 19 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (46°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (42°F) 153 mm (6 in)