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

Should you visit London or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a international, historic, and diverse 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. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a glamourous, diverse, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

London and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Los Angeles?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than London. While London is larger than Los Angeles, Los Angeles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Los Angeles is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while London attracts visitors for its theatre productions, christmas markets, and impressive beauty. London is famous for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Los Angeles is famous for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood.

How is London different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles that are not to be missed. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

London is renowned for its shows and theatre. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for theatre.

London is considered to be a world-class theater destination. 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.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

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

Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find first-rate options in both London and Los Angeles.

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.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Music?

London and Los Angeles are both destinations where visitors can find first-rate live music.

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

Los Angeles is a world class music destination. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, London is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Los Angeles. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

London is not a resort destination.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is terrific for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

London is not a beach destination.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is terrific for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Los Angeles?

If you're looking to go shopping, London and Los Angeles both offer plenty of first-rate 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.

Los Angeles is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Christmas?

London is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

London offers plenty of sights and activities around 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.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Christmas Markets?

London is renowned for visiting Christmas markets. However, Los Angeles does not offer 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.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Families?

You'll find first-rate kid-friendly activities in either London or Los Angeles.

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.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Both London and Los Angeles are first-rate 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.

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is London or Los Angeles Better for Students?

For students, both London and Los Angeles are first-rate 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.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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

London is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

London has a great public transit system. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is London or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

London is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or London?

How long in London or Los Angeles?

Both London and Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than London. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Los Angeles, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

London is a diverse city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the big city destination of Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles?

London is a global big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

London is a global city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Los Angeles?

London is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the diverse big city of Los Angeles. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between London and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though London is in Europe and Los Angeles is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, London or Los Angeles?

London has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Los Angeles. When comparing the sizes of London and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to London in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

London is cooler than Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In July, London usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to London as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, London is much colder than Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

London usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and London are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to London because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

The weather in London can be very cold. In January, London is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In January, London usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and London during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to London this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city.

London is much colder than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in London averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

London usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and London