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

Should you visit London or Connemara?

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

London

London is a historic, diverse, and iconic 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.

Connemara

Connemara is a dramatic, breathtaking, and scenic region. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

London and Connemara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Connemara?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London. Although London and Connemara are popular destinations, London has more sights and attractions for tourists. London is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Connemara attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. London is more touristy than Connemara 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. Connemara is famous for its bog-filled landscape and its hidden coves.

Big Ben

How is London different from Connemara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Connemara is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put London on the map. 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.

Connemara is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most people visit the region for the natural beauty, you will also find Kylemore Abbey, Ballynahinch Castle, and Clifden Castle nearby.

Is London or Connemara Better for Theater?

London is terrific for its shows and theatre. However, Connemara 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.

Connemara is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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, Connemara makes for a great culinary experience. The area has been influenced by the improving food scene in nearby regions. You'll find everything from fine dining restaurants to food trucks that use local ingredients and recipes. The area has no shortage of seafood, shellfish, and even Connemara lamb.

Is London or Connemara Better for Nightlife?

London is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Connemara is not a good region for nightlife.

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.

Connemara doesn't offer many options. You'll find some bars in the area but most people visit for the natural beauty, not the nightlife scene.

Is London or Connemara Better for Music?

London is terrific for its music scene. However, Connemara is not a live music destination.

In London you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Connemara is not a live music destination.

Is London or Connemara Better for Beaches?

Connemara is a great region for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Connemara is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find wide stretches of sandy beach as well as hidden coves that offer a peaceful retreat. Some of the best beaches in the area include Dog’s Bay Beach, Trá an Dóilín, and Glassilaun Beach.

London is not a beach destination.

Is London or Connemara Better for Hiking?

Connemara is terrific for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Connemara specifically for its hiking. The landscape is considered to be some of the most beautiful in all of Ireland and there are many walks and hikes that let you experience it. Some of the best hikes are The Cong and Clonbur Forest Trail, the Claddaghduff Quay to Omey Island Walk, and Mount Gable Walk.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Connemara?

London is terrific for its shopping areas. However, Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

London is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Connemara is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Connemara Better for Christmas?

London is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Connemara 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.

Connemara does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Connemara Better for Christmas Markets?

London is terrific for its Christmas markets. However, Connemara does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in London are not to be missed. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Connemara does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Connemara Better for Families?

London is terrific for its family-friendly activities. However, Connemara is not a good region for its kid-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.

Connemara is not always a place people visit with their families. There are plenty of places to explore outdoors such as Connemara National Park as well as the nearby beaches. You'll also find several playgrounds in the area.

Is London or Connemara Better for Couples?

London is terrific for couples. Also, Connemara is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for romance.

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.

Connemara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find romantic hotels and beautiful walks through hidden coves and dramatic countryside. Couples will enjoy exploring castles and getting lost in the beauty.

Is London or Connemara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is terrific for backpackers. However, Connemara is not a good region 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.

Connemara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in the area, you really need a car to explore the area in depth. This turns off a lot of backpackers.

Is London or Connemara Better for Students?

London is terrific for students. However, Connemara 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.

Connemara is not popular with students.

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

London is terrific for its public transit. However, Connemara is not a good region for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Connemara. There are a few buses in the area but you really need a private vehicle to get around to most places.

Is London or Connemara a more walkable city?

London is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Connemara is not a good region for its 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.

Connemara is not a very walkable city. You really need a vehicle to experience everything that the region has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in Connemara or London?

How long in London or Connemara?

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

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

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 museums and food when visiting the destination of Connemara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in London or Connemara?

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.

Connemara is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Connemara?

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 Connemara. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Connemara?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Connemara. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.

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

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

When is the best time to visit London or Connemara?

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 Connemara in the Summer?

Both Connemara and London during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Connemara because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

London is a little warmer than Connemara in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Connemara fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, London often gets more sunshine than Connemara. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 142 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in July than Connemara. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Connemara in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Connemara. 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. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Connemara this time of year.

In the autumn, London is around the same temperature as Connemara. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Connemara averages at about 11°C (52°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Connemara during autumn. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 96 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Connemara receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, London usually receives less rain than Connemara. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit London or Connemara in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to London as well as Connemara. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to London this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Connemara for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in London in the winter. In January, London is generally cooler than Connemara. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Connemara fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, London often gets less sunshine than Connemara. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Connemara receives 59 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Connemara. London usually gets less rain in January than Connemara. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Connemara in the Spring?

Both Connemara and London are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Connemara in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

London usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Connemara during spring. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Connemara receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, London usually receives less rain than Connemara. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Connemara receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Connemara and London