A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Barcelona for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming, historic, and quaint town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's also known for food and theater.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a historic, cultural, and friendly 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 beaches.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona are popular destinations, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions and small town charm. Barcelona is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for theatre. However, Barcelona is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Barcelona is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Barcelona is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Barcelona. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Barcelona draws large crowds to its stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Barcelona. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Stratford-upon-Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Barcelona is a good town for couples to visit. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Barcelona is extremely popular for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Stratford-upon-Avon is somewhat walkable. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable town. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Stratford-upon-Avon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Barcelona.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Barcelona for a weekend. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the theater. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Barcelona. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 17°C (63°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn for the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Stratford-upon-Avon during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Barcelona. The spring months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 9°C (48°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Stratford-upon-Avon