A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers London vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit London or Paris?

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 London and Paris can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a historic, diverse, and iconic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Paris

Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

London and Paris: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Big Ben
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Eiffel Tower


Is there more to do in London or Paris?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Paris. London is bigger than Paris, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its christmas markets, while Paris is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. London is well known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Paris is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is London different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in London or Paris?

London
Paris

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Paris and London.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, London has many famous sights for visitors. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.


Is London or Paris Better for Theater?

London
Paris

There are world-class theater venues available in both London and Paris.

The theater scene in London is world-class. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Paris. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Is the Food Better in London or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

London
Paris

Paris is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is London or Paris Better for Nightlife?

London
Paris

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find world-class options in both London and Paris.

London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.


Is London or Paris Better for Music?

London
Paris

London and Paris are both destinations where visitors can find world-class live music.

London has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Paris?

London
Paris

If you're looking to go shopping, London and Paris both offer plenty of world-class spots.

Many people travel to London specifically to go shopping. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Is London or Paris Better for Christmas?

London
Paris

With various activities, both London and Paris are world-class places to visit during Christmas.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in London. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Paris is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.


Is London or Paris Better for Christmas Markets?

London
Paris

London is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Paris does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in London are not to be missed. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Paris does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Paris Better for Families?

London
Paris

You'll find world-class kid-friendly activities in either London or Paris.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

Paris is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Is London or Paris Better for Couples?

London
Paris

Both London and Paris are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, London has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Paris has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.


Is London or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London
Paris

For backpackers, both London and Paris are world-class places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit London, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is London or Paris Better for Students?

London
Paris

For students, both London and Paris are world-class places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit London. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Paris is a great destination for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Is London or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

London
Paris

London and Paris both offer world-class public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Paris has a great public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.


Is London or Paris a more walkable city?

London
Paris

London is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

London is a very easy city to get around on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is London Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or London?

How long in London or Paris?

Both London and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, London has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in London than Paris. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in London or Paris? Ideal Length of Stay
    London 3-7 
    Paris 3-7

One day in London or Paris?

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Paris. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in London or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris 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 London or Paris?

London is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. 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 London or Paris?

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the energetic big city of Paris. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Paris or London?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in London is £190, while the average daily cost in Paris is £199. 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 London and Paris in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    London £123
    Paris £129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    London £246
    Paris £258
Compare Hotels in London and Paris

Looking for a hotel in London or Paris? 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 London


Hotels in Paris


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: London Hotel Prices and Paris Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    London £26
    Paris £18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in London:


  • Taxi Ride
    £15
  • Heathrow Express
    £18
  • Luggage Storage
    £8.00
  • London Map
    £1.29
  • Oyster Card
    £36
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    £22
  • Oyster Card
    £27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

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

  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Bristol city: $691
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $580
  • Private Transfer Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Terminal: $567
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Harwich Port: $442
  • London Hotels and Airports: Private Transfer to Southampton: $441
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Dover Port: $417
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Southampton Port: $415
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $393
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Private Transfer to London: $390
  • Heathrow Airport: 1-Way Meet & Greet Transfer to London: $378
  • Heathrow Airport Chauffeur Transfer to & from Central London: $372
  • Heathrow Airport Taxi - Private Transfer - Pickup & Return: $359

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

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


  • Metro
    £5.47
  • Train from Airport
    £7.70
  • Metro tickets
    £5.82
  • Train
    £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

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

  • Versailles: Skip-the-Line Day Tour & Transfer from Paris: $2,280
  • Private Transfer to or from Toulouse: $1,412
  • From Le Havre/Honfleur: Private Transfer to Versailles: $1,411
  • Private Transfer to or from Lyon: $977
  • Private Transfer to or from Strasbourg: $977
  • Luxury Mercedes Transfer to Deauville or Le Havre: $814
  • Private Transfer from Paris City to Le Havre: $276
  • Private Airport Transfer Paris - Round Trip: $276
  • Charles De Gaule Airport Private Transfer: $276
  • Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Round Trip Transfer to/from Paris: $276
  • Private Transfer to or from Beauvais Airport: $271
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $270

Is it cheaper to fly into London or Paris?

Prices for flights to both Paris and London 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
    London £34
    Paris £35
Typical Food Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    £13
  • Tea
    £6.00
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    £39
  • Morning Tea
    £6.35
  • Pastry
    £5.00
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    £18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

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

  • Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $17
  • Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $38
  • Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $39
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour: $44
  • Christmas Tea and Doughnuts: Historic Borough Market Food Tour: $65
  • International Stand Up Comedy Showcase - Show & Dinner (Côte): $85
  • International Stand Up Comedy Showcase - Show & Dinner (Côte): $87
  • London Borough Market Small Group Food Tour: $87
  • Plant Power - Vegan Food Tour: $88
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour (Small Group): $96
  • Eat the East End food tour with London Bites Tours: $109
  • 3 Hours Borough Market Morning Food Tour with London Bites Tours: $110

Typical Food Prices in Paris

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:


  • Ice Cream
    £6.84
  • Breakfast
    £5.99
  • Breakfast for 2
    £25
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    £74
  • Dinner
    £49
  • Cheese
    £11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

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

  • Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $50
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $52
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $67
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $68
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $68
  • Paris : No Diet Club Food Tour - Best Spots in Le Marais: $68
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $69
  • Dinner with Customized Wine Selection: $76
  • 3-Hour Dinner Cruise on Seine River and Saint-Martin Canal: $76
  • Paris Food Tour: $76
  • Seine River Dinner Cruise from Eiffel Tower: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    London £33
    Paris £66
Typical Entertainment Prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Two Tickets to a Concert
    £83
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    £34
  • London Pass
    £47
  • Comedy Show
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in London

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.

  • Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tour Camden: $64
  • Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tours Christmas Special: $45
  • David Bowie Golden Years Tour: $32
  • London Covent Garden: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • London Eye Standard Ticket: $41
  • Madame Tussauds London Admission Ticket: $45
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Medieval Legends, ghosts and fire: $10
  • Silent Disco Walking Tours West End Boogie Shoes: $45
  • Slavery and City of London Walking Tour: $15
  • The London Dungeon Admission Ticket: $37
  • Victoria and Albert Museum and Kensington Gardens Tour for Kids: $219
  • 'Downton Abbey' TV Locations and Blenheim Palace Tour from London: $223

Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    £15
  • Admission to Pantheon
    £4.28
  • Catacombs (2)
    £20

Tours and Activities in Paris

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.

  • 2-Hour Walking Tour About French Revolution : $43
  • A Day at Parc Saint-Paul Ticket and Transport Included: $209
  • Guided Tour to Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Chronicles: $49
  • Paris Boat River Seine Cruise Sightseeing TICKETS: $22
  • Paris City Center Self-Guided Walking Tour : $11
  • Paris Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $269
  • Paris Sightseeing Tour with Seine River Cruise from Disneyland®: $83
  • Skip-the-Line Paris Catacombs Special Access Tour: $131
  • Versailles Palace Skip the Line Small Group Guided Tour: $68
  • Île de la Cité - Sainte-Chapelle & Conciergerie Tour Private Tour: $177
  • Île de la Cité, Latin Quarter & Seine River Cruise: Private Tour: $155
  • Île de la Cité, the Old Town of Paris Private Guided Tour: $201

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    London £15
    Paris £21

Sample the Local Flavors in London

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

  • Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $13
  • Shoreditch Pub Crawl in London: $19
  • Haunted London Pub Walking Tour: $21
  • Central London Pub Crawl: $23
  • Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour and Cocktail Ticket: $26
  • Clapham Pub Crawl in London: $26
  • Guided Historic Pub Tour (London): $27
  • London Pub Crawl: $27
  • Balfour Winery, Wine Tasting Masterclass: $32
  • The Original Shoreditch Pub Crawl: $32
  • Small Group Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour in London: $32
  • Historic London Pub Tour: $32

Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

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


  • Wine
    £12

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl: Meet, Drink & Party (With Club Entry): $14
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $17
  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl: Meet, Drink & Party (With Club Entry): $17
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $22
  • Paris Bar Crawl: $24
  • Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
  • Paris Pub Crawl: $26
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $32
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $39
  • Audio guided tour and wine tasting at Caves du Louvre: $40
  • Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise & l'Atelier des lumières: $50
  • Vegan Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise: $50


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


Which is Bigger, London or Paris?

London has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Paris. When comparing the sizes of London and Paris, 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 London or Paris?

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 London or Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, London is cooler than Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Paris. London usually receives less sunshine than Paris during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Paris. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    London 18°C (64°F) 
    Paris 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit London or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to London because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In October, London is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Paris. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

London usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Paris. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    London 12°C (53°F) 
    Paris 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit London or Paris in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Paris. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to London this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. It's quite cold in London in the winter. London is around the same temperature as Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Paris during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    London 4°C (40°F) 
    Paris 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit London or Paris in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Paris. Many travelers come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, London is cooler than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Paris. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Paris. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    London 9°C (48°F) 
    Paris 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Paris and London

London Paris
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)