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

Should you visit Santorini or London?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Santorini or London, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Santorini

Santorini is a romantic, stunning, and historic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

London

London is a iconic, global, and international 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. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Santorini and London: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Big Ben


Is there more to do in Santorini or London?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Santorini, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Santorini is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Santorini is popular for its beautiful volcanic beaches, stunning natural beauty, and breathtaking sunsets over the whitewashed villages. London is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben.

Big Ben
Big Ben

How is Santorini different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santorini or London?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in London are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santorini. One of the most impressive historical sights is Akrotiri Archaeological Site. The island has many archeological sites as well as the Archeological Museum in Fira.


Is Santorini or London Better for Theater?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Santorini 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.

Santorini is not a theatre destination.

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

Santorini
London

London is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

London has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Santorini area. Popular foods on this island include fava, Greek salad, and kofta.

Is Santorini or London Better for Nightlife?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in London is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Santorini. It is one of the calmer, more romantic islands in Greece. For the best nightlife, you'll want to stay near Fira.


Is Santorini or London Better for Music?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Santorini is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in London. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Santorini is not a live music destination.

Is Santorini or London Better for Resorts?

Santorini
London

Santorini is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, London is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Santorini is a perfect choice. The resorts range from all-inclusive options to resorts with a more local feel. The island is one of the most romantic of the Greek Islands, and the resorts are no exception.

London is not a resort destination.

Is Santorini or London Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santorini
London

Santorini 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 Santorini. Some of the best snorkeling places are found at Red Beach, White Beach, and the less accessible Kambia. One of the island's best diving spots is Caldera Beach.

London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Santorini or London Better for Beaches?

Santorini
London

Santorini is very good for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Santorini to enjoy the beach. The island has many beaches, most of which are made of black pebbly sand that are a result of the island's volcanic history. Popular beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach, and Perivolos Beach.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Santorini or London Better for Hiking?

Santorini
London

Santorini is very good for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Santorini. The best hiking trails on the island pass by quaint villages and offers stunning ocean views. You can also hike along the edge of a volcano.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santorini or London?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, London draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Santorini. Towns around the island are filled with clothing and jewelry boutiques as well as many unique Greek shopping experiences.


Is Santorini or London Better for Christmas?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Santorini 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.

Santorini does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Santorini or London Better for Christmas Markets?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Santorini does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel from around the world to visit the Christmas markets in London. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Santorini does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Santorini or London Better for Families?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Santorini is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a calmer destination than many of the Greek Islands. While it's a great place to relax with kids, the beaches aren't as good as they are on some of the other islands. Most families hang out in Kamari and Perissa Beach.


Is Santorini or London Better for Couples?

Santorini
London

Santorini and London are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Santorini has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a dream honeymoon destination that is famous for its picturesque setting and luxury resorts. For many couples, this is a top pick for a romantic trip to the Greek Isles.

London is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Is Santorini or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, London is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Santorini is a good island to visit for backpackers. The island has its share of 5 star resorts, but if you head a few streets in you'll find some surprisingly affordable accommodation. Backpackers are welcomed on the island and beaches are free, so it's possible to get by on a relatively low budget.

Is Santorini or London Better for Students?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Santorini 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.

Santorini is not popular with students.


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

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Visitors in London can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Santorini has a few public transit options. There is a bus system, KTEL Santorini Buses, that runs 23 buses during the summer months but only a small fraction of that operate during the winter months.

Is Santorini or London a more walkable city?

Santorini
London

London is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

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.

Santorini is a somewhat walkable island. Many towns on the island are walkable, including Fira, but the actual island is too large to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Santorini?

How long in Santorini or London?

Both Santorini and London have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, London has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in London than Santorini. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in London than Santorini. 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 Santorini. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in London that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than Santorini 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 Santorini or London? Ideal Length of Stay
    Santorini 3-7 
    London 3-7

One day in Santorini or London?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Santorini. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.


A weekend in Santorini or London?

Santorini 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.

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.

Five days in Santorini or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santorini. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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.

A week in Santorini or London?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning destination of Santorini. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, London or Santorini?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Santorini is €175, while the average daily cost in London is €222. 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 Santorini and London in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Santorini 93
    London 144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santorini 186
    London 288
Compare Hotels in Santorini and London

Looking for a hotel in Santorini or London? 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 Santorini


Hotels in London


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: Santorini Hotel Prices and London Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Santorini 28
    London 30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santorini

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

  • Helicopter Transfer between Mykonos & Santorini: $3,800
  • Private Sunset Tour with Picnic & Transfer: $163
  • Santorini Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise with BBQ,drinks,transfer: $144
  • Santorini Airport(JTR) to Santorini - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $144
  • Caldera Cruise with Greek Meal and Transfer: $141
  • Santorini to Heraklion Crete: Ferry Ticket & Hotel Transfer: $127
  • Santorini to Mykonos: Ferry Ticket & Hotel Transfer: $127
  • Santorini Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Drinks and Transfer: $121
  • Santorini Private transfer up to 8 persons: $121
  • Santorini Sunset Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, drinks, transfer: $121
  • Wine Tasting Tour to 3 Wineries with Transfer: $117
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Santorini Port To All Destinations: $110

Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

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


  • Taxi Ride
    17
  • Heathrow Express
    21
  • Luggage Storage
    9.35
  • London Map
    1.51
  • Oyster Card
    42
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    25
  • Oyster Card
    32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

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

  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Bristol city: $691
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $580
  • Private Transfer Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Terminal: $567
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Harwich Port: $442
  • London Hotels and Airports: Private Transfer to Southampton: $441
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Dover Port: $417
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Southampton Port: $415
  • Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $393
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Private Transfer to London: $390
  • Heathrow Airport: 1-Way Meet & Greet Transfer to London: $378
  • Heathrow Airport Chauffeur Transfer to & from Central London: $372
  • Heathrow Airport Taxi - Private Transfer - Pickup & Return: $359

Is it cheaper to fly into Santorini or London?

Prices for flights to both London and Santorini 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
    Santorini 48
    London 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santorini

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

  • Live Virtual Cooking Class: $25
  • Traditional Greek Night live Music & Dinner Show in Santorini: $55
  • Romantic Sunset Caldera Cruise with Dinner: $71
  • Santorini Caldera: Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $71
  • Virtual Private Cooking Class Live from Santorini: $72
  • Volcanic Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $81
  • Santorini Caldera Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine: $88
  • Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner, Drinks, and Music: $92
  • Volcano and Hot Springs Sunset Dinner Cruise: $98
  • Santorini Volcano Sunset Cruise Including Dinner on Board: $109
  • Cooking Class in Traditional cave house in Santorini!: $121
  • Sunset Cruise with Swim Stops, Dinner, and Drinks: $122

Typical Food Prices in London

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


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    15
  • Tea
    7.01
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    46
  • Morning Tea
    7.42
  • Pastry
    5.85
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

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

  • Dinner and Live DJ at A Fancy Restaurant: $17
  • Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $38
  • Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $39
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour: $44
  • Christmas Tea and Doughnuts: Historic Borough Market Food Tour: $65
  • International Stand Up Comedy Showcase - Show & Dinner (Côte): $85
  • International Stand Up Comedy Showcase - Show & Dinner (Côte): $87
  • London Borough Market Small Group Food Tour: $87
  • Plant Power - Vegan Food Tour: $88
  • Tea and Doughnuts: Borough Market Walking Food Tour (Small Group): $96
  • Eat the East End food tour with London Bites Tours: $109
  • 3 Hours Borough Market Morning Food Tour with London Bites Tours: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Santorini 36
    London 38

Tours and Activities in Santorini

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

  • Santorini Panoramic Blue Shade Tour-Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia: $63
  • Santorini Secrets & Gems for Cruise Passengers: $97
  • Oia Sunset- Cultural Walking Tour : $66
  • 3-Hour Santorini Highlights Tour: $72
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Santorini: $221
  • 4 Hours Private Custom Tour in Santorini: $188
  • 4 Hours Santorini Private Tour: $150
  • 4 hours Private Half Day Tour in Santorini Island: $177
  • 4 hrs island tour and photoshooting, Oia Blue domes, Red beach : $199
  • 5 Hour Sightseeing Tour in the Magical Santorini: $113
  • 5-Hour Private Tour of Southern Santorini: $407
  • 6 Hours Land Tour Ideal for Cruise Ship Passengers: $287

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
    97
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    40
  • London Pass
    55
  • Comedy Show
    9.35

Tours and Activities in London

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

  • Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tour Camden: $64
  • Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tours Christmas Special: $45
  • David Bowie Golden Years Tour: $32
  • London Covent Garden: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • London Eye Standard Ticket: $41
  • Madame Tussauds London Admission Ticket: $45
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Medieval Legends, ghosts and fire: $10
  • Silent Disco Walking Tours West End Boogie Shoes: $45
  • Slavery and City of London Walking Tour: $15
  • The London Dungeon Admission Ticket: $37
  • Victoria and Albert Museum and Kensington Gardens Tour for Kids: $219
  • 'Downton Abbey' TV Locations and Blenheim Palace Tour from London: $223

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Santorini 26
    London 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Santorini

Also in Santorini, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Half Day Simply Santorini Tour with Wine Tasting: $61
  • Top Sights of Santorini with Wine Tasting and Sunset in Oia: $61
  • Top Sights Day Trip, Wine Tasting, & Oia Sunset: $70
  • Fira Town Walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $76
  • Santorini 4-Hour Private Tour including Wine Tasting, Shore Excursion: $105
  • Santorini 4 Hour Private Oia Tour & Wine Tasting : $106
  • Santorini Highlights Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting from Fira: $110
  • Wine Tour with Sunset in Oia: $119
  • Santorini Wine Adventure in 3 Wineries with Wine Tastings, Sunset: $133
  • Wine Adventure in 3 Wineries and 12 Wine Tastings: $157
  • Three Wineries and One Brewery Tour with Tastings: $163
  • Wine Tasting Tour & Sunset Viewing: $163

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
  • Shoreditch Pub Crawl in London: $19
  • Haunted London Pub Walking Tour: $21
  • Central London Pub Crawl: $23
  • Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour and Cocktail Ticket: $26
  • Clapham Pub Crawl in London: $26
  • Guided Historic Pub Tour (London): $27
  • London Pub Crawl: $27
  • Balfour Winery, Wine Tasting Masterclass: $32
  • The Original Shoreditch Pub Crawl: $32
  • Small Group Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour in London: $32
  • Historic London Pub Tour: $32


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

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


Which is Bigger, Santorini or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Santorini. When comparing the sizes of Santorini and London, 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.