A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom London vs. Bristol for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit London or Bristol?

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 Bristol can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

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

Bristol

Bristol is a friendly, authentic, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

London and Bristol: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Bristol?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London than Bristol. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. London is more touristy than Bristol and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Bristol is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies.

Big Ben

How is London different from Bristol?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bristol 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 Bristol?

London is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, London has many famous sights for visitors. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Is London or Bristol Better for Theater?

London is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Bristol 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.

Bristol is not a theatre destination.

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

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

London has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Bristol offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Is London or Bristol Better for Nightlife?

London is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

Bristol has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Is London or Bristol Better for Music?

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

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

Bristol is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Bristol?

London is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to London specifically to go shopping. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Bristol is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Is London or Bristol Better for Christmas?

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

With so many activities, London is a top place to visit during Christmas. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Bristol does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Bristol Better for Christmas Markets?

London is an unbeatable place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Bristol 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.

Bristol does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Bristol Better for Families?

London is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Bristol is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Is London or Bristol Better for Couples?

London is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

Is London or Bristol Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is London or Bristol Better for Students?

London is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Bristol is a good city to visit for students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

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

London is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in London can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Is London or Bristol a more walkable city?

London is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Bristol is very walkable. The city center is well designed for walking.

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

Should I spend more time in Bristol or London?

How long in London or Bristol?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both London and Bristol. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in Bristol. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bristol.

Families should spend more time in London than Bristol. 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 Bristol. 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 Bristol 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 Bristol?

Because London is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bristol. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in London or Bristol?

Because London is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Bristol 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.

Five days in London or Bristol?

London is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that London has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in London or Bristol?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. Because London is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Bristol. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Bristol?

London has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bristol. When comparing the sizes of London and Bristol, 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 Bristol?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit London or Bristol in the Summer?

Both Bristol and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bristol in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

London is around the same temperature as Bristol in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Bristol fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In July, London usually receives more rain than Bristol. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Bristol in the Autumn?

Both Bristol and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, London is around the same temperature as Bristol. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Bristol averages at about 13°C (55°F).

London usually gets less rain in October than Bristol. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Bristol in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Bristol. Most visitors come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bristol because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

London can be very cold during winter. In January, London is generally cooler than Bristol. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Bristol fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In January, London usually receives less rain than Bristol. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Bristol in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Bristol. The spring months attract visitors to London because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bristol this time of year.

London is around the same temperature as Bristol in the spring. The daily temperature in London averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bristol fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

London usually gets more rain in April than Bristol. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bristol and London