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

Should you visit London or Chartres?

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

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. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Chartres

Chartres is a spectacular, historic, and grand town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Is there more to do in London or Chartres?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London. Although London and Chartres are both popular with visitors, London has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. London is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is known for its small town charm. London is more touristy than Chartres and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Chartres is popular for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

Big Ben

How is London different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

Is London or Chartres Better for Theater?

London is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a theatre destination.

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

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

London has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is London or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

London is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

London is a world class 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is London or Chartres Better for Music?

London is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Chartres?

London is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, London draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Chartres Better for Christmas?

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Chartres Better for Christmas Markets?

London is a must-visit destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Chartres does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make London very popular during this season. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Chartres does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Chartres Better for Families?

London is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is London or Chartres Better for Couples?

London is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is a good city for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is London or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Is London or Chartres Better for Students?

London is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not popular with students.

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

London is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

Chartres offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Is London or Chartres a more walkable city?

London is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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.

Chartres is a very walkable destination. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or London?

How long in London or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in London or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in London than Chartres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

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

London is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in London or Chartres?

London is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Chartres 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 Chartres?

London is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

London is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that London has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the spectacular destination of Chartres. This town 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Chartres?

London has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of London and Chartres, 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres in the Summer?

Both Chartres and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, London is generally cooler than Chartres. Daily temperatures in London average around 18°C (64°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Chartres. London usually receives less sunshine than Chartres during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Chartres. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to London because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

London is cooler than Chartres in the autumn. The daily temperature in London averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Chartres fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Chartres. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in October than Chartres. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Chartres in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Chartres. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to London this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chartres for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chartres. It's quite cold in London in the winter. In the winter, London is around the same temperature as Chartres. Typically, the winter temperatures in London in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Chartres averages at about 5°C (40°F).

London usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chartres during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chartres. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Chartres. Many travelers come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Chartres in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, London is generally cooler than Chartres. Daily temperatures in London average around 9°C (48°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Chartres. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun.

London usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Chartres. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chartres and London