A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers London vs. San Jose for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit London or San Jose?

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 San Jose can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a iconic, global, and international city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. London is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See London travel costs.

San Jose

San Jose is a traditional, colorful, and bustling city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See San Jose travel costs.

London and San Jose: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or San Jose?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than San Jose. London is bigger than San Jose, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is more touristy than San Jose and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. San Jose is well known for its colorful markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as its easy access to the rest of the country.

Big Ben

How is London different from San Jose?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London is very popular for its museums and history. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

San Jose offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Despite most people rushing through town, there are a number of museums, plazas, and interesting buildings that are worth checking out.

Is London or San Jose Better for Theater?

London is very popular for theatre. However, San Jose 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.

San Jose is not a theatre destination.

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

London is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in London. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in San Jose. Most people miss out on local cuisine during their time in Costa Rica, but the capital city offers the best opportunities to eat like a local. You can sample favorite local dishes such as chifrijo, gallo pinto, rondón, and casado. You should also wander through the Central Market and dine at one of the many local restaurants.

Is London or San Jose Better for Nightlife?

London is very popular for nightlife. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

London is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

San Jose is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city has the best nightlife in all of Costa Rica. You'll find a diversity of clubs and bars that are fun to explore. Check out the reggae bars, dance clubs, and sports bars (where you can enjoy a soccer game) while you're in town.

Is London or San Jose Better for Music?

London is very popular for live music. However, San Jose is not a live music destination.

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

San Jose is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or San Jose?

London is very popular for shopping. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in London. 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.

San Jose is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of unique things you can buy in the city including jewelry, handbags, and wood workings. Make sure you check out the Central Market.

Is London or San Jose More Beautiful?

London is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is London or San Jose Better for Families?

London is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. However, San Jose is lacking in good options 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.

San Jose doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Most people pass through the city quickly, but if you have a day or two to explore, you can visit the Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños), Spirogyra Butterfly Gardens, or explore the Central Market.

Is London or San Jose Better for Couples?

London is very popular for romance. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

London has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Most people don't think of San Jose as a couple's destination. While Costa Rica is a popular honeymoon destination, the capital city is often overlooked for the beaches and rainforests around the country.

Is London or San Jose Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent London. 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.

San Jose is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers appreciate the affordability of the city and the wide range of hostels that you can choose from. The city also offers an authentic glimpse of life in Costa Rica.

Is London or San Jose Better for Students?

London is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

London is a great destination for students. 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.

San Jose is popular with students. Many students come to Costa Rica to study the country's amazing environment and unique ecological systems. San Jose makes a good base as its easy to travel to other parts of this small country.

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

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

London has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

You'll find some public transit in San Jose, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel through the city during the daytime hours.

Is London or San Jose a more walkable city?

London is very popular for its walkability. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of 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.

San Jose is a somewhat walkable place. It can feel a bit chaotic, but it's relatively easy to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in San Jose or London?

How long in London or San Jose?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in London or San Jose to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in London than San Jose because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 1-2 days is enough time in San Jose.

Families should spend more time in London than San Jose. 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose 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 San Jose?

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 San Jose. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in London or San Jose?

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.

San Jose 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 San Jose?

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 San Jose. 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 San Jose?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful destination of San Jose. 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 Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or San Jose?

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

London has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but San Jose experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit London or San Jose in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both London and San Jose. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to London this time of year. San Jose attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the summer, London is much colder than San Jose. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and San Jose averages at about 28°C (82°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than San Jose during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

San Jose receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, London usually receives less rain than San Jose. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or San Jose in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to London as well as San Jose. 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. The warm climate attracts visitors to San Jose throughout the year.

In October, London is generally much colder than San Jose. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than San Jose. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Jose. London usually gets less rain in October than San Jose. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in San Jose is the dry season. Also, May to November in San Jose is the hurricane season.

Should I visit London or San Jose in the Winter?

Both San Jose and London are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to London in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to San Jose because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

London can get quite cold in the winter. London is much colder than San Jose in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in San Jose. London usually receives less sunshine than San Jose during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives more rain than San Jose. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or San Jose in the Spring?

Both San Jose and London during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to San Jose year-round.

In the spring, London is much colder than San Jose. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and San Jose averages at about 29°C (85°F).

In San Jose, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than San Jose. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 255 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in April than San Jose. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in San Jose. Also, the hurricane season in San Jose is May to November.

Typical Weather for San Jose and London