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

Should you visit London or Chicago?

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

London

London is a diverse, iconic, and global 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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Chicago

Chicago is a diverse, vibrant, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and theater.

London and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London than Chicago. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. London is very popular for its christmas markets and impressive beauty, while Chicago attracts visitors for its food and beaches. London is more touristy than Chicago and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile.

Big Ben

How is London different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Chicago and London.

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 will find world class museums and historical sights in Chicago that are not to be missed. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Is London or Chicago Better for Theater?

There are fantastic theater venues available in both London and Chicago.

The theater scene in London is world-class. 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.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

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

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

Chicago has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. 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 London or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Chicago is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Is London or Chicago Better for Music?

London and Chicago are both destinations where visitors can find fantastic live music.

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

Chicago is a world class music destination. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Is London or Chicago Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Chicago to enjoy the beach. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

London is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Chicago?

If you're looking to go shopping, London and Chicago both offer plenty of fantastic 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.

Chicago is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Is London or Chicago Better for Christmas?

London is renowned for its Christmas activities. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its Christmas holiday experiences.

London is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Chicago is a very popular destination during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Is London or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

London is renowned for its Christmas markets. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for visiting 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.

Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Is London or Chicago Better for Families?

You'll find fantastic kid-friendly activities in either London or Chicago.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Is London or Chicago Better for Couples?

London is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, London 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is London or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is renowned for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

London is a very popular city to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is London or Chicago Better for Students?

For students, both London and Chicago are fantastic 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.

Chicago is a great destination for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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

London and Chicago both offer fantastic public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Chicago has a great public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Is London or Chicago a more walkable city?

London is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or London?

How long in London or Chicago?

In either London or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in London than Chicago because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

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 live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Chicago. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in London or Chicago?

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.

Chicago 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Chicago?

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 museums and theater when visiting the diverse big city of Chicago. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between London and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is London much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since London is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to London would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in London 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in London.

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

Which is Bigger, London or Chicago?

London has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Chicago. When comparing the sizes of London and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to London as well as Chicago. The summer months attract visitors to London because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

London is cooler than Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In the summer, London often gets less sunshine than Chicago. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. London usually gets less rain in July than Chicago. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and London are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to London this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, London is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

London usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during autumn. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chicago. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit London or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and London during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in London. In January, London is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, London often gets less sunshine than Chicago. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in January than Chicago. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Chicago. Many visitors come to London in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

London is cooler than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in London averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. London usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during spring. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, London usually receives less rain than Chicago. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and London