A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brisbane vs. London for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Brisbane or London?

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

Brisbane

Brisbane is a diverse, cultural, and active coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

London

London is a diverse, iconic, and global city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Brisbane and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or London?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London than Brisbane. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. London is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Brisbane attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. London is more touristy than Brisbane and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Brisbane is famous for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.

Big Ben

How is Brisbane different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brisbane can be an interesting and educational experience. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Theater?

London is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Brisbane is not a theatre destination.

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.

Brisbane is not a theatre destination.

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

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

London has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Nightlife?

London is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

London has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Brisbane has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Music?

London is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Brisbane is not a live music destination.

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

Brisbane is not a live music destination.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Brisbane. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is a great coastal city for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Brisbane is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is very good for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Brisbane. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or London?

London is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

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.

Brisbane is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Christmas?

London is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Brisbane does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, London is a top place to visit during Christmas. 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.

Brisbane does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Christmas Markets?

London is an amazing city to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Brisbane does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit London because of the beautiful Christmas markets. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Brisbane does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Families?

London is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Brisbane is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Couples?

London is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Is Brisbane or London Better for Students?

London is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for students.

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.

Brisbane is a great coastal city to visit as a student. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

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

London is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.

Public transit in London is top-notch. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Is Brisbane or London a more walkable city?

London is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its 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.

Brisbane is very walkable. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or London?

Both Brisbane and London have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in Brisbane. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 3-7 days is enough time in London.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than Brisbane 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 London.

One day in Brisbane or London?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Brisbane. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

London is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Brisbane or London?

Brisbane is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

London 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 Brisbane or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brisbane. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

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

A week in Brisbane or London?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse destination of Brisbane. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

London is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that London has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brisbane and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Brisbane much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brisbane is in Pacific and London is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Brisbane would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brisbane 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 London would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in London than you might in Brisbane.

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

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Brisbane. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane and London, 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 Brisbane or London?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Brisbane is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but London has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Brisbane or London in the Summer?

Both London and Brisbane are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to London this time of year.

Brisbane is a little warmer than London in the summer. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and London fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than London during summer. Brisbane gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Brisbane. In January, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Londonin July. Brisbane gets 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brisbane or London in the Autumn?

Both London and Brisbane during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brisbane is much warmer than London. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brisbane in April average around 22°C (71°F), and London averages at about 12°C (53°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. In the autumn, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Londonin October. Brisbane gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 107 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually gets more rain in April than Londonin October. Brisbane gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or London in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brisbane and London. Many travelers come to Brisbane for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to London in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

London can get quite cold in the winter. In July, Brisbane is generally much warmer than Londonin January. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 15°C (59°F), and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than London during winter. Brisbane gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Londonin January. Brisbane gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brisbane or London in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brisbane as well as London. Many visitors come to Brisbane in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Brisbane is much warmer than London in the spring. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and London fluctuates around 9°C (48°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In the spring, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Londonin April. Brisbane gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 147 hours of full sun.

Brisbane usually gets more rain in October than Londonin April. Brisbane gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for London and Brisbane