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

Should you visit London or Barcelona?

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

London

London is a global, international, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a friendly, high energy, and youthful 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

London and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Barcelona?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Barcelona. London is bigger than Barcelona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its museums, theatre productions, and christmas markets, while Barcelona is more popular for its beaches and historical sights. London is well known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Barcelona is well known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches.

Big Ben

How is London different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in London that are not to be missed. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Theater?

London is renowned for theatre. However, Barcelona 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.

Barcelona is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both London and Barcelona.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Barcelona makes for a great culinary experience. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find amazing options in both London and Barcelona.

London is a must-see party destination. 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.

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Music?

London and Barcelona are both destinations where visitors can find amazing live music.

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

Barcelona is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

London is not a beach destination.

Is London or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Barcelona?

If you're looking to go shopping, London and Barcelona both offer plenty of amazing spots.

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.

Barcelona is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Christmas?

London is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Barcelona does not offer Christmas activities.

London is a world class destination during the Christmas season. 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.

Barcelona does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Christmas Markets?

London is renowned for its Christmas markets. However, Barcelona does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel to London specifically to enjoy its famous 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.

Barcelona does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Families?

London is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Couples?

London is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both London and Barcelona are amazing places to visit.

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.

Barcelona is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Is London or Barcelona Better for Students?

For students, both London and Barcelona are amazing places to visit.

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.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

London is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is London or Barcelona a more walkable city?

London is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or London?

How long in London or Barcelona?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than Barcelona 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 London or Barcelona?

People visit London because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Barcelona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in London or Barcelona?

People visit London because there is so much to do. 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.

Barcelona 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.

Five days in London or Barcelona?

People visit London because there is so much to do. 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.

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

A week in London or Barcelona?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural big city of Barcelona. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Barcelona?

London has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Barcelona. When comparing the sizes of London and Barcelona, 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 London or Barcelona?

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 London or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and London during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, London is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, London often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Barcelona. Many visitors come to London in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, London is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, London usually receives less rain than Barcelona. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit London or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to London as well as Barcelona. Most visitors come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

London can be very cold during winter. London is much colder than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, London often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and London are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to London because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In the spring, London is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. London usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, London usually receives less rain than Barcelona. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and London