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

Should you visit London or Florence?

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

London

London is a iconic, global, and international city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of London is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See London travel costs.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come to Florence because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Florence travel costs.

London and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Florence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Florence is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. London is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Florence is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens.

Big Ben

How is London different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Florence 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 Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Is London or Florence Better for Theater?

London is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Florence is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in London. 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.

Florence is not a theatre destination.

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

Florence 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.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean and cabbage soup. You'll also find all of your favorite Italian staples and many great family-owned trattorie.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

London is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in London is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is London or Florence Better for Music?

London is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is London or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

Florence has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Florence?

London is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is London or Florence More Beautiful?

Florence is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Florence because of it's amazing beauty. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.

London is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city has quaint neighborhoods and stunning architectural landmarks that are not to be missed.

Is London or Florence Better for Families?

London is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

London is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is London or Florence Better for Couples?

Both London and Florence are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is London or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both London and Florence are terrific places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit London, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Florence is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Is London or Florence Better for Students?

For students, both London and Florence are terrific 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.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

London is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in London can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Florence has a few public transit options. The city has a comprehensive bus system.

Is London or Florence a more walkable city?

London and Florence are terrific when it comes to walkability.

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.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot and the striking beauty and and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a great place to wander. During peak seasons, the streets can get crowded.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or London?

How long in London or Florence?

Both London and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, London has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in London than Florence. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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 nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in London or Florence?

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.

Florence 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 Florence?

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 Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Florence?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Florence?

London has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of London and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to London this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, London is generally cooler than Florence. Daily temperatures in London average around 18°C (64°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Florence. London usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives more rain than Florence. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

London is cooler than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in London averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Florence. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in October than Florence. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Florence. Many visitors come to London in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

London can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, London is much colder than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in London in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives less rain than Florence. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Florence. Most visitors come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

In April, London is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in London average around 9°C (48°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Florence. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Florence. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and London