A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Como for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Como can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a livable, cultural, and historical port city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Como than Newcastle upon Tyne. While Newcastle upon Tyne is larger than Como, Como has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Como is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Newcastle upon Tyne attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Como is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also well known for the lakeside setting. Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Como and Newcastle upon Tyne. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newcastle upon Tyne can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for its restaurants. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Como has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newcastle upon Tyne makes for a great culinary experience. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Beaches?

Como is very good for the beach. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Como to enjoy the beach. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newcastle upon Tyne to see the historical old town. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Como specifically to go shopping. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Newcastle upon Tyne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Families?

Como is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Como. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Couples?

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Como has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Como is not popular with students.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

You'll find some public transit in Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Como a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

Couples should spend more time in Como than Newcastle upon Tyne. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Como that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como than Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Como.

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Como, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Como for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Como, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The beautiful destination of Como offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

The high energy port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Como. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This lake area offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Newcastle upon Tyne and Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Newcastle upon Tyne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newcastle upon Tyne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como than you might in Newcastle upon Tyne.

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Como, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Como?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Como in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Como during summer. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Como. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Newcastle upon Tyne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Como in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Como. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Como averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Como. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

Como gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Como. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Como in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Como. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Como for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Como can be very cold during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Como. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Como in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Como. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Como in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Como. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Como. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Newcastle upon Tyne