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

Should you visit Hong Kong or London?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or London, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a glamorous, diverse , and compact 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

London

London is a iconic, global, and international city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Hong Kong and London: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Big Ben


Is there more to do in Hong Kong or London?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London. Although Hong Kong and London are about the same size, London has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. London is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, and christmas markets, while Hong Kong is known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. London is more touristy than Hong Kong and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Hong Kong is popular for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is Hong Kong different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or London?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in London are world-renowned. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.


Is Hong Kong or London Better for Theater?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Hong Kong is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in London. 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.

Hong Kong is not a theatre destination.

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

Hong Kong
London

Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

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 Hong Kong or London Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in London is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.


Is Hong Kong or London Better for Music?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in London. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

Is Hong Kong or London Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
London

Hong Kong is a great city for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Hong Kong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or London Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
London

Hong Kong is a great city for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Hong Kong for the hiking trails. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

London is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or London?

Hong Kong
London

Shoppers can find a variety of terrific stores in both Hong Kong and London.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

London is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Is Hong Kong or London Better for Christmas?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Hong Kong does not offer Christmas activities.

London offers plenty of sights and activities around 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.

Hong Kong does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Hong Kong or London Better for Christmas Markets?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Hong Kong does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel from around the world to visit the Christmas markets in London. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Hong Kong does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Hong Kong or London Better for Families?

Hong Kong
London

Hong Kong and London are both terrific destinations for the whole family.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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.

Is Hong Kong or London Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
London

Hong Kong and London are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

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.

Is Hong Kong or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, London is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


Is Hong Kong or London Better for Students?

Hong Kong
London

London is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

London is a great destination 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.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Hong Kong
London

Visitors will find terrific public transit in both Hong Kong and London.

Visitors in Hong Kong can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

London has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Is Hong Kong or London a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
London

Hong Kong and London are terrific when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in London or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or London?

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

Families should spend more time in London than Hong Kong. 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 Hong Kong. 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 Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong or London? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    London 3-7

One day in Hong Kong or London?

Hong Kong is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find museums and theater around the city of London. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or London?

Hong Kong 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.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the diverse big city of London. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hong Kong. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the global city of London. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Hong Kong or London?

Hong Kong is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

London is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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 Hong Kong?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $160, while the average daily cost in London is $239. 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 Hong Kong and London in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    London $155
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    London $310
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and London

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong


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: Hong Kong Hotel Prices and London Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.72
    London $32
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

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


  • Taxi Ride
    $18
  • Heathrow Express
    $23
  • Luggage Storage
    $10
  • London Map
    $1.63
  • Oyster Card
    $45
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    $27
  • Oyster Card
    $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

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

  • Windsor Castle Private Transfer To & from London Pickup & Return: $282
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in London APT-HTL (LHR): $141
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in London HTL - APT (LGW,STN): $135
  • Transfer to the Cruise ports from your London accommodation: $103
  • Transfer in private car from Central London - London Airport (LGW): $96
  • Transfer in Private MPV from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Central London: $115
  • The Making of Harry Potter: Warner Bros. Studio Tour & Transfers: $204
  • Stansted Airport Departure Shared Transfer - London to Airport: $70
  • St Pancras Train Station to Southampton Private Transfer Service: $239
  • St Pancras Train Station to Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $97
  • Southampton Port to LHR in an Executive Luxury Vehicle Private Transfer: $288
  • Southampton One-Way Transfer - To or From Heathrow: $285

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or London?

Prices for flights to both London and Hong Kong 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
    Hong Kong $33
    London $43
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $12

Typical Food Prices in London

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


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    $16
  • Tea
    $7.56
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    $49
  • Morning Tea
    $8.00
  • Pastry
    $6.30
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    $23

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hong Kong $95
    London $41
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.67
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

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
    $104
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    $43
  • London Pass
    $59
  • Comedy Show
    $10

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    London $19

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Hong Kong. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong 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.