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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Como can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

Como

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

Stratford-upon-Avon and Como: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Como. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Como are both popular with visitors, Como has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Como is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Como is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also home to the lakeside setting. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Como.

While most people don't head to Stratford-upon-Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Como Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Como is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Stratford-upon-Avon. 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.

Como is not a theatre destination.

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

Como is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

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 Como Better for Nightlife?

Como is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Como. 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.

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

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

Como is very good for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon has an old town worth visiting. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Como is very family-friendly. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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.

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

Como is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. 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.

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

Como is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many 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.

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 Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

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 Como a more walkable city?

Como is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

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

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

Families should spend more time in Como than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 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 Como.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Como?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Como?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the theater. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Como?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Como?

Because Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Stratford-upon-Avon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Stratford-upon-Avon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon.

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 Como Expensive?.

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

Como has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Como in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Como during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Como. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Como and Stratford-upon-Avon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Como in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Como. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 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. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Como. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Como. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter for the museums, the theater shows, 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. Stratford-upon-Avon can get quite cold in the winter. Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Como. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Como. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Como. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Como averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Como. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Como. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Stratford-upon-Avon