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

Should you visit London or Versailles?

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 Versailles 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Versailles

Versailles is a beautiful, grand, and ornate palace. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums.

London and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Big Ben
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in London or Versailles?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Versailles. London is bigger than Versailles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Versailles is more popular for its impressive beauty. London is well known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Versailles is well known for its long running history and its grand architecture.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is London different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London
Versailles

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Versailles 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 Versailles that are not to be missed. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.


Is London or Versailles Better for Theater?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles is not a theatre destination.

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

London
Versailles

London is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is London or Versailles Better for Nightlife?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

London has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is London or Versailles Better for Music?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Versailles?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is London or Versailles Better for Christmas?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Versailles does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in London. 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.

Versailles does not offer Christmas activities.


Is London or Versailles Better for Christmas Markets?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Versailles does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit London because of the beautiful 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.

Versailles does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Versailles Better for Families?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is London or Versailles Better for Couples?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace 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.

Versailles is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.


Is London or Versailles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is London or Versailles Better for Students?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not popular with 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.

Versailles is not popular with students.

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

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace for its public transit.

Public transit in London is top-notch. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Public transit in Versailles can get you to some places easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.


Is London or Versailles a more walkable city?

London
Versailles

London is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace for its high level of 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.

Versailles is a very walkable city. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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

Should I spend more time in Versailles or London?

How long in London or Versailles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in London or Versailles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in London than Versailles 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 Versailles.

Families should spend more time in London than Versailles. 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 Versailles. 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 Versailles 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.


  • How many days in London or Versailles? Ideal Length of Stay
    London 3-7 
    Versailles 1-2

One day in London or Versailles?

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Versailles. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in London or Versailles?

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Versailles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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 Versailles?

London, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Versailles. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Versailles?

London is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the grand destination of Versailles. This palace 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Versailles or London?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in London is £190, while the average daily cost in Versailles is £200. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for London and Versailles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    London £123
    Versailles £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    London £246
    Versailles £220
Compare Hotels in London and Versailles

Looking for a hotel in London or Versailles? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in London


Hotels in Versailles


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: London Hotel Prices and Versailles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    London £26
    Versailles £45
Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in London:


  • Taxi Ride
    £15
  • Heathrow Express
    £18
  • Luggage Storage
    £8.00
  • London Map
    £1.29
  • Oyster Card
    £36
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    £22
  • Oyster Card
    £27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

Also for London, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Southampton Cruise Terminals: Private Transfer to London: $1,300
  • London Luton Airport (LTN): Transfer to Southampton Port: $830
  • Southampton Port Transfer with Stonehenge stop-over included: $755
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Bristol city: $680
  • London Gatwick Airport (LGW): Transfer to Southampton Port: $650
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $575
  • Private Transfer Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Terminal: $562
  • Private Transfer From Southampton Cruise Terminal to London: $562
  • Harry Potter Family Package Tickets with Transfer: $500
  • Harry Potter Family Package with Transfers from London: $500
  • London Stansted Airport (STN): Transfer to Southampton Port: $486
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Harwich Port: $439

Is it cheaper to fly into London or Versailles?

Prices for flights to both Versailles and London change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    London £34
    Versailles £57
Typical Food Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    £13
  • Tea
    £6.00
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    £39
  • Morning Tea
    £6.35
  • Pastry
    £5.00
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    £18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

For London, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Borough Market Food Tour - Self Guided: $6.47
  • Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $16
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $34
  • Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner: $36
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour: $44
  • Pizza Making Cookery Class: $52
  • Borough Bites, The London Food Tour: $66
  • Borough Market Flavors of London Food Tour: $66
  • No Diet Club - Best food Tour in East London: $67
  • African & Caribbean Food Tour in Multi-Cultural Brixton: $74
  • Plant Power - Vegan Food Tour: $87
  • Ultimate London Food Tour: Borough Market & Southwark: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    London £33
    Versailles £39
Typical Entertainment Prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Two Tickets to a Concert
    £83
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    £34
  • London Pass
    £47
  • Comedy Show
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in London

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.

  • Boogie Shoes Christmas Silent Disco Walking Tours London : $32
  • Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tour Camden: $63
  • Little Venice and Camden Walking Tour: $95
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Medieval Legends, ghosts and fire: $10
  • Silent Disco Walking Tours West End Boogie Shoes: $44
  • The London Dungeon Admission Ticket: $37
  • 'Downton Abbey' TV Locations and Blenheim Palace Tour from London: $220
  • "Luxury Tour: From London to Leeds Castle & Canterbury": $625
  • 1 Hour Unlimited Games and Rides Ticket in Babylon Park: $38
  • 2 Hour Belgravia Walking Tour and High Tea: $125
  • 2 Hours Rock and Roll Historical Walking Tour in London : $62
  • 2 Hours Unlimited Games and Rides Ticket in Babylon Park: $51

Tours and Activities in Versailles

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Versailles.

  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    London £15
    Versailles £15

Sample the Local Flavors in London

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in London:

  • Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $13
  • 2-Hour Haunted Pub Walking Tour: $20
  • Shoreditch Bar Crawl of Five Venues with Drink Deals: $22
  • Central London Pub Crawl: $23
  • 1 Big Night Out Weekday Pub Crawl: $23
  • Camden Pub Crawl in London: $25
  • Craft Brewery Tour with Tasting of 4 Beers: $25
  • Shoreditch Pub Crawl in London: $25
  • Pub Crawl of Central London: $29
  • Burlesque Cabaret Show in Covent Garden: $31
  • Camden Pub Crawl & Bar Tour London: $31
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Tour: $31


When comparing the travel costs between London and Versailles, we can see that Versailles 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, London or Versailles?

London has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of London and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

Both Versailles 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.

In the summer, London is cooler than Versailles. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Versailles averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Versailles. London usually receives less sunshine than Versailles during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Versailles. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    London 18°C (64°F) 
    Versailles 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit London or Versailles in the Autumn?

Both Versailles 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 Versailles in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area.

In October, London is generally cooler than Versailles. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Versailles. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 126 hours of full sun.

London usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Versailles. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    London 12°C (53°F) 
    Versailles 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit London or Versailles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Versailles. 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 Versailles for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Versailles can be very cold during winter. London can get quite cold in the winter. London is around the same temperature as Versailles in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Versailles fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

London usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Versailles during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives around the same amount of rain as Versailles. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    London 4°C (40°F) 
    Versailles 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit London or Versailles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Versailles. 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 Versailles because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, London is cooler than Versailles. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Versailles averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Versailles. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Versailles. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    London 9°C (48°F) 
    Versailles 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Versailles and London

London Versailles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)