A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. London for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Cesis or London?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and London 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.

Cesis

Cesis is a natural, traditional, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

London

London is a global, international, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of London is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See London travel costs.

Cesis and London: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Big Ben


Is there more to do in Cesis or London?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London. Although Cesis and London are both popular with visitors, London has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. London is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is known for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. London is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Cesis is popular for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is Cesis different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in London are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Cesis or London Better for Theater?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Cesis is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in London that are not to be missed. 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.

Cesis is not a theatre destination.

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

Cesis
London

London is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit London. 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.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or London Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

London is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.


Is Cesis or London Better for Music?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its live music scene. However, Cesis is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in London Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Cesis is not a live music destination.

Is Cesis or London Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
London

Cesis is adequate for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is Cesis or London Better for Hiking?

Cesis
London

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Cesis. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

London is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or London?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in London make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or London More Beautiful?

Cesis
London

London is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of London is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city has quaint neighborhoods and stunning architectural landmarks that are not to be missed.

Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Is Cesis or London Better for Families?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

London is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.


Is Cesis or London Better for Couples?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

London is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit London. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or London Better for Students?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

London is a very popular city for students. 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.

Cesis is not popular with students.


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

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

London has a great public transit system. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or London a more walkable city?

Cesis
London

London is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or London?

Both Cesis 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 Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 3-7 days is enough time in London.

Families should spend more time in London than Cesis. 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 Cesis. 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 Cesis 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.


  • How many days in Cesis or London? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    London 3-7

One day in Cesis or London?

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

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.


A weekend in Cesis or London?

Cesis 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.

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.

Five days in Cesis or London?

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

A week in Cesis or London?

Cesis 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, London or Cesis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cesis Prices
    Latvia Prices
    London Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cesis 138
    London 248

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in London is €248. 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 Cesis and London in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    London 143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    London 286
Compare Hotels in Cesis and London

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or London? 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 Cesis


Hotels in London


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    London 30

Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

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


  • Taxi Ride
    17
  • Heathrow Express
    21
  • Luggage Storage
    9.15
  • London Map
    1.48
  • Oyster Card
    41
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    25
  • Oyster Card
    31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

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

  • Heathrow Airport to Gatwick Airport Transfers: $182
  • Private Transfer To or From London City Airport: $123
  • "Private Transfer: Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port": $181
  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bath".: $175
  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bournemouth".: $164
  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Cambridge.": $115
  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Slough": $59
  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Watford".: $78
  • 8 Seater Transfer: Heathrow Airport to Central London: $240
  • 8 Seater Transfer: Heathrow Airport to/from Central London: $229
  • Airport - hotel - airport transfers for Heathrow groups.: $532
  • Airport Transfer: $219

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or London?

Prices for flights to both London and Cesis 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
    Cesis 71
    London 68
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

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


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

Typical Food Prices in London

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


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    15
  • Tea
    6.86
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    45
  • Morning Tea
    7.26
  • Pastry
    5.72
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

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

  • Ultimate London Cheese Crawl : Guided Food Tour: $48
  • Tasting History: A Choose Your Own Menu Food Tour: $49
  • Pizza and Beer Bus Experience: $67
  • London Soho & Covent Garden Food Tour by Do Eat Better : $79
  • International Stand Up Show & Monmouth K. Dinner in Covent Garden: $89
  • Borough Market Christmas Food Tour with Tea and Doughnuts: $96
  • Private South Indian Home Cooking Experience in Orpington: $105
  • Devour Borough Market & Leadenhall Food Tour with Wine: $115
  • Plant Power - Vegan Food Tour: $117
  • Hungry for Soho: London's Finest Food Tour: $122
  • Eating London East End Food Tour: $122
  • London Cheese Chocolate and Christmas Lights Food Tour: $123

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    London 37

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
    95
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    39
  • London Pass
    54
  • Comedy Show
    9.15

Tours and Activities in London

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

  • London's Hidden Gems Self Guided City Tour: $2.37
  • London Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.61
  • Soho's Contribution to Health Care History Walking Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Camden Town's Quirky Characters: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Brixton Self-Guided Music Walking Tour - Guided By Historian: $6.84
  • Natural History Museum London Audio Guide and Free Entry Ticket: $6.85
  • Jazz Notes - Jazz Jam Ticket: $6.85
  • Experience Fitzrovia Comedy Club in London: $6.85
  • Harry Potter's London Self-Guided Tour for Muggles with an App: $6.93
  • Soho Instagram Self-Guided Walking Tour - Top Photo Spots: $7.00
  • Shoreditch Self-Guided Walking Tour: Art, Cuisine & Culture: $7.00
  • Jack the Ripper in Quest Experience: $7.20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    London 17

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: $16
  • London Pub Tour: $27
  • London Pub Crawl: $29
  • Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery Tour and Cocktail: $30
  • Camden Pub Crawl in London: $34
  • The Great East London Pub Crawl!: $34
  • Small Group Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour in London: $34
  • Sipsmith Distillery Tour and Complimentary Tasting: $41
  • Small Group Historical Pub Tour, Beer Included: $60
  • East End Craft Brewery Tour: $67
  • Brixton Craft Brewery Tour: $67
  • Devour London Historical Pub Tour:Traditional British Food & Ales: $95


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Cesis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cesis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cesis 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 Cesis.

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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 410 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis or London?

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 Cesis or London in the Summer?

Both London and Cesis during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cesis in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cesis is around the same temperature as London. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cesis in July average around 17°C (63°F), and London averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in July than London. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    London 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cesis or London in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and London. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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.

In October, Cesis is generally much colder than London. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 7°C (45°F), and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In October, Cesis usually receives around the same amount of rain as London. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    London 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Cesis or London in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cesis as well as London. The winter months attract visitors to Cesis because of the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to London this time of year.

It's quite cold in London in the winter. The weather in Cesis can be very cold. Cesis is much colder than London in the winter. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than London. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    London 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Cesis or London in the Spring?

Both London and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cesis is much colder than London. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cesis in April average around 5°C (42°F), and London averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than London. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    London 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for London and Cesis

Cesis London
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)