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

Should you visit London or Caen?

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

London

London is a international, historic, and diverse 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Caen

Caen is a important, historic, and park-filled 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 Caen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Caen?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Caen. London is bigger than Caen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is more touristy than Caen and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Caen is well known for its role in World War II and its memorials and historical buildings.

Big Ben

How is London different from Caen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Caen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.

Is London or Caen Better for Theater?

London is renowned for theatre. However, Caen is not a theatre destination.

London is considered to be a world-class theater destination. 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.

Caen is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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, Caen makes for a great culinary experience. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.

Is London or Caen Better for Nightlife?

London is renowned for nightlife. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Caen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.

Is London or Caen Better for Music?

London is renowned for live music. However, Caen is not a live music destination.

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Caen is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Caen?

London is renowned for shopping. However, Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in London. 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.

Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Caen Better for Christmas?

London is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Caen 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.

Caen does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Caen Better for Christmas Markets?

London is renowned for visiting Christmas markets. However, Caen 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.

Caen does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Caen Better for Families?

London is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, London is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Caen. There are museums, parks, monasteries, and castles that kids and adults alike with enjoy visiting.

Is London or Caen Better for Couples?

London is renowned for romance. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

London is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Caen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that are fascinated by history will enjoy a visit to this town in Normandy. There are also abbeys, castles and parks.

Is London or Caen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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 budget travelers visit Caen. You'll find more apartments and bed and breakfasts than hostels in town, but backpackers still make their way here.

Is London or Caen Better for Students?

London is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Caen is not popular with students.

London is a very popular place to visit 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.

Caen is not popular with students.

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

London is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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 in Caen can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city.

Is London or Caen a more walkable city?

London is renowned for its walkability. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Caen is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Caen or London?

How long in London or Caen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both London and Caen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in Caen. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 2-3 days is enough time in Caen.

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

London is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Caen. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in London or Caen?

London is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Caen 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 Caen?

London is a international big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

London is a historic city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the park-filled destination of Caen. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Caen?

London has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Caen. When comparing the sizes of London and Caen, 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 Caen?

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 Caen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Caen. Many visitors come to London in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Caen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Caen this time of the year. London usually receives less sunshine than Caen during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Caen. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Caen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Caen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to London as well as Caen. Most visitors come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Caen because of the city's sights and attractions.

In October, London is generally around the same temperature as Caen. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Caen fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Caen. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 128 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in October than Caen. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Caen receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Caen in the Winter?

Both Caen and London are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to London because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Caen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Caen in the winter. The weather in London can be very cold. London is cooler than Caen in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Caen fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Caen during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives less rain than Caen. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Caen receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Caen in the Spring?

Both Caen and London during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to London this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Caen for the activities around the city.

In the spring, London is around the same temperature as Caen. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Caen averages at about 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Caen. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 171 hours of full sun.

London usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Caen. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Caen receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Caen and London