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

Should you visit London or Dover?

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 Dover 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.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

London and Dover: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Dover?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London. Although London and Dover are popular destinations, London has more sights and attractions for tourists. London is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Dover attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. London is more touristy than Dover 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. Dover is famous for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

Big Ben

How is London different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Is London or Dover Better for Theater?

London is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Dover is not a theatre destination.

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.

Dover is not a theatre destination.

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

London is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in London is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is London or Dover Better for Nightlife?

London is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

People head to London just to party. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is London or Dover Better for Music?

London is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Dover 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.

Dover is not a live music destination.

Is London or Dover Better for Hiking?

Dover is a great town for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dover for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Dover?

London is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Dover 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Dover Better for Christmas?

London is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Dover 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.

Dover does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Dover Better for Christmas Markets?

London is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, Dover does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to London specifically for the 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.

Dover does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Dover Better for Families?

London is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Dover is a family-friendly city. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Is London or Dover Better for Couples?

London is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Dover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Is London or Dover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Is London or Dover Better for Students?

London is a world-class destination for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

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.

Dover is not popular with students.

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

London is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in London can get you around easily. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is London or Dover a more walkable city?

London is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

Should I spend more time in Dover or London?

How long in London or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either London or Dover. Generally, people tend to spend more time in London due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dover.

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

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Dover. 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 Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Dover 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 Dover?

London is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Dover. This town 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 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 Dover, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Dover much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dover would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dover 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 Dover.

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

Which is Bigger, London or Dover?

London has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of London and Dover, 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 Dover?

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 Dover in the Summer?

Both Dover and London during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to London because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

London is around the same temperature as Dover in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Dover fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Dover, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, London often gets less sunshine than Dover. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit London or Dover in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Dover. 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 Dover for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, London is around the same temperature as Dover. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Dover averages at about 12°C (54°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Dover during autumn. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 119 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dover. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit London or Dover in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to London as well as Dover. 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 Dover in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Dover can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in London. In January, London is generally around the same temperature as Dover. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Dover fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, London often gets less sunshine than Dover. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 57 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in January than Dover. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Dover in the Spring?

Both Dover and London are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to London in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dover for the natural beauty during these months.

London is around the same temperature as Dover in the spring. The daily temperature in London averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Dover fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Dover during spring. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dover. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dover and London