A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Stratford-upon-Avon for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Athens and Stratford-upon-Avon. 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.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

Athens and Stratford-upon-Avon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Stratford-upon-Avon are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions and small town charm. Athens is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Stratford-upon-Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stratford-upon-Avon and Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Athens is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Athens is not a theatre destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Athens is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Athens has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Nightlife?

Athens is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for its Old Town?

Athens is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Athens is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Athens. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Families?

Athens is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Athens is very family-friendly. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Couples?

Athens and Stratford-upon-Avon both good destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a nice destination for couples. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Students?

Athens is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Athens is very popular with students. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon a more walkable city?

Athens is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable city. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon or Athens?

How long in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Stratford-upon-Avon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people visit Athens for a weekend. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. 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.

A week in Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Stratford-upon-Avon, 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 Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Stratford-upon-Avon. Many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Stratford-upon-Avon. Many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere during these months.

Athens is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 107 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Stratford-upon-Avon. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Winter?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Spring?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year.

In April, Athens is generally much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 147 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Stratford-upon-Avon. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stratford-upon-Avon and Athens