A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Delft vs. Bruges for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Delft or Bruges?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Delft and Bruges can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Delft

Delft is a quaint, charming, and historic town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Delft travel costs.

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.

Delft and Bruges: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Delft or Bruges?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bruges than Delft. Bruges is bigger than Delft, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bruges is more touristy than Delft and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Also, Bruges is famous for Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Delft is well known for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery.

How is Delft different from Bruges?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bruges. 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.

Delft offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Bruges. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

Is Delft or Bruges Better for Nightlife?

Bruges is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.

Is Delft or Bruges Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of Bruges can be explored in its historical center. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Delft. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

Is the Shopping Better in Delft or Bruges?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Delft and Bruges.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Delft. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

Bruges offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Delft or Bruges More Beautiful?

Bruges is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft 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.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Delft or Bruges Better for Families?

Both Delft and Bruges are notable to visit with kids.

Delft is a family-friendly town. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bruges. 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 Delft or Bruges Better for Couples?

Bruges is a very popular place for romance. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Bruges makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Delft makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

Is Delft or Bruges Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Bruges is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Delft is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some affordable accommodation options, but many backpackers head to Delft as a day trip from the nearby city of The Hague.

Is Delft or Bruges Better for Students?

Delft is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

Many students visit Delft. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Delft is great 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Delft. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

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 Delft or Bruges a more walkable city?

Delft and Bruges are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Delft. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

Getting around Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bruges or Delft?

How long in Delft or Bruges?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Delft and Bruges. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bruges than in Delft. Usually, 1 day is a good amount of time for Delft, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bruges.

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

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

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

One day in Delft or Bruges?

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

In Bruges, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Delft or Bruges?

Delft is a great place to explore. A weekend may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bruges. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Delft or Bruges?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delft. 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.

Bruges is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Bruges. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Delft or Bruges?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Delft. This town 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Bruges. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Belgium, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Delft and Bruges, we can see that Bruges 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 Delft Expensive? and Is Bruges Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Delft or Bruges?

Bruges has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of Delft and Bruges, 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 Delft or Bruges?

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 Delft or Bruges in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Delft and Bruges. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Delft this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Delft is generally around the same temperature as Bruges. Daily temperatures in Delft average around 17°C (62°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bruges this time of the year. In Delft, it's very sunny this time of the year. Delft usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bruges during summer. Delft gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Delft usually receives more rain than Bruges. Delft gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Delft or Bruges in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Delft as well as Bruges. Many travelers come to Delft for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bruges in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Delft is cooler than Bruges in the autumn. The daily temperature in Delft averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Bruges fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

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

Delft usually gets less rain in October than Bruges. Delft gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Delft or Bruges in the Winter?

Both Bruges and Delft are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Delft in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bruges for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bruges can be very cold during winter. Delft can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Delft is much colder than Bruges. Typically, the winter temperatures in Delft in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Bruges averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Delft usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bruges during winter. Delft gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Delft usually receives more rain than Bruges. Delft gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Delft or Bruges in the Spring?

Both Bruges and Delft during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bruges because of the natural beauty.

In April, Delft is generally cooler than Bruges. Daily temperatures in Delft average around 8°C (46°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

Delft usually gets more rain in April than Bruges. Delft gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bruges and Delft