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

Should you visit London or Stockholm?

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

London

London is a global, international, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a expensive, beautiful, and clean city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

London and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Stockholm?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Stockholm, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Stockholm is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. London is more touristy than Stockholm and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Stockholm is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town.

Big Ben

How is London different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in London are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Theater?

London is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Stockholm is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in London that are not to be missed. 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.

Stockholm is not a theatre destination.

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

London is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

London is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

London is a world class 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.

Many people head to Stockholm for the nightlife scene. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Music?

London and Stockholm are both destinations where visitors can find amazing live music.

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

Stockholm is a world class music destination. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Is London or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

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

Stockholm has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Stockholm?

London is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in London make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Christmas?

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Stockholm does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, London is not to be missed. 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.

Stockholm does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Christmas Markets?

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Stockholm does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make London very popular during this season. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Stockholm does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Families?

You'll find amazing kid-friendly activities in either London or Stockholm.

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.

Stockholm is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Couples?

Both London and Stockholm are amazing 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.

Stockholm has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is London or Stockholm Better for Students?

London is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

London is a very popular city 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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

London and Stockholm both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

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.

Stockholm has a great public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Is London or Stockholm a more walkable city?

London and Stockholm are amazing 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 Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or London?

How long in London or Stockholm?

Both London and Stockholm 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 Stockholm. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

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

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 food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Stockholm. 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 Stockholm?

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.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Stockholm?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the clean big city of Stockholm. 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 Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Stockholm?

London has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Stockholm. When comparing the sizes of London and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to London as well as Stockholm. Many travelers come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Stockholm in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, London is generally around the same temperature as Stockholm. Daily temperatures in London average around 18°C (64°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Stockholm. In the summer, London often gets less sunshine than Stockholm. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in July than Stockholm. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and London are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to London in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

London is much warmer than Stockholm in the autumn. The daily temperature in London averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during autumn. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, London usually receives more rain than Stockholm. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit London or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm and London during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Stockholm can be very cold. London can be very cold during winter. In the winter, London is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the winter temperatures in London in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Stockholm averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In the winter, London often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in January than Stockholm. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Stockholm. The spring months attract visitors to London because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

In April, London is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in London average around 9°C (48°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Stockholm during spring. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, London usually receives more rain than Stockholm. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and London