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

Should you visit Ios or London?

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

Should I visit Ios or London? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ios

Ios is a touristy, backpacker-friendly, and historical island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

London

London is a historic, diverse, and iconic 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. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Ios and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ios or London?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London. Although Ios and London are both popular with visitors, London has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. London is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Ios is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. London is more touristy than Ios and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Ios is popular for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd.

Big Ben

How is Ios different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ios. If you can pull yourself away from the beaches or parties, there are a number of archaeological and historic sights around the island. Churches like Panayia Gremiotissa Church and Evangelisimos Cathedral are worth visiting. Other attractions include Odysseas Elytis Theatre, Homer’s Tomb, and Skarkos Hill.

Is Ios or London Better for Theater?

London is very popular for its theatre productions. However, Ios is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in London draw crowds from around the world. 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.

Ios is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Ios and London offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ios. Most of the island's restaurants are found in the port area or in the town of Chora, but you'll also find several options near Mylopotas Beach. Most restaurants offer typical Greek dishes, but they often have a local twist. You'll often find local cheeses or a slightly different take on an old favorite. Popular ingredients include cheese, yogurt, fish, olives, honey, olive oil, and grains. Common meats include lamb, beef, and even rabbit, but seafood is obviously popular as well.

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.

Is Ios or London Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are world-class in both Ios and London.

Ios is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. This is one of the quintessential party islands in Greece. Many young backpackers come here just to party, particularly during the summer months. You'll find many parties start around midnight or later and carry on well into the morning. Most of the clubs and bars are around the main square and nearby streets in Chora, but there are also clubs spread throughout the town. Outside of town, Mylopotas Beach is another popular party area.

People head to London just to party. 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.

Is Ios or London Better for Music?

London is very popular for its live music scene. However, Ios 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.

Ios is not a live music destination.

Is Ios or London Better for Resorts?

Ios is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, London is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ios. There are a number of resort areas around the island with families preferring the areas around Yialos Beach and Manganari Beach. Partiers usually head to Chora and the great beaches near Mylopotas, but if you want to escape the crowds, head to Agia Theodoti.

London is not a resort destination.

Is Ios or London Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios 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 Ios. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or London Better for Beaches?

Ios is terrific for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Ios is a very popular vacation destination. The island has beautiful sandy beaches that range from family-friendly to party hard. There are popular and more developed beaches near Chora like Koumbara and Mylopotas as well as more relaxing beaches a little more removed like Kalamos and Manganari. Because of their striking beauty, the beaches around the island have been featured in a few films.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Ios or London Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Ios. The island has a barren and rocky landscape that offers spectacular views. Many of the hikes are quite challenging, but there are a few options for beginners as well. Many also pass by the spectacular ruins around the island.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ios or London?

London is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Ios has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of local souvenirs that you can pick up. Many visitors prefer to take home unique items such as a tin of olives or olive oil. Jewelry, honey, and local ceramics also make good gifts.

Is Ios or London Better for Christmas?

London is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Ios does not offer Christmas activities.

London is a fantastic destination at 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.

Ios does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Ios or London Better for Christmas Markets?

London is very popular for its Christmas markets. However, Ios does not offer Christmas markets.

London has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Ios does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Ios or London Better for Families?

London is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Ios is a mediocre island for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, London is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Ios is not always a place people visit with their families. While the island is known as one of the top party destinations in Greece, it also has a more cultural side. There are impressive archaeological ruins and stunning beaches that kids will enjoy. The island also has snorkeling and plenty of kid-friendly food. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are in Manganari Bay and Yialos Beach is a nice family-friendly area.

Is Ios or London Better for Couples?

London is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for couples.

London makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Ios makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Because it's so close to Santorini, many people visit as a day trip. While the island is synonymous with partying, there are still many world-class archaeological sites and romantic beaches that make for an active and fun honeymoon. It's a bit quieter outside of the peak summer months.

Is Ios or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ios and London are world-class destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Ios. For many backpackers, partying in Ios is a quintessential European experience. Nights are spent at all night clubs or beach raves, while days are spent nursing a hangover on the beach. There are plenty of venues that cater to the budget crowd, with cheap food available at different places.

A large number of backpackers visit London, as it is a very popular island 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.

Is Ios or London Better for Students?

London is very popular for students. However, Ios is not popular with students.

Many students frequent 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.

Ios is not popular with students.

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

London is very popular for its public transit. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

London has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

The public transit in Ios can get you to most places easily. There are public buses that travel to most of the tourist sights around the island including several of the more remote beaches like Manganari and Agia Theodoti.

Is Ios or London a more walkable city?

London is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Ios is a somewhat walkable island. Chora is the most walkable part of the island.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Ios?

How long in Ios or London?

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

Families should spend more time in London than Ios. 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 Ios. 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 Ios 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 Ios or London?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Ios. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Ios or London?

Ios 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.

Many people visit London for a weekend. When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Ios or London?

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

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Ios or London?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the striking destination of Ios. This island 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece, 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 Ios and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Ios much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ios would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ios 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 Ios.

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

Which is Bigger, Ios or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 4120 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios 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.