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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Florence?

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 Florence can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic, quaint, and idyllic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the food and theater.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Florence: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florence than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florence is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions and small town charm. Florence is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a theatre destination.

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

Florence is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Florence 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 Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

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

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

Florence is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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 Florence?

Florence is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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

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

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Florence.

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 Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

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

Florence 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, Florence has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence 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 Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Florence 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.

Florence has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

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 Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is an unbeatable 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.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Florence. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Florence?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Florence?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Florence, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Florence?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stratford-upon-Avon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Florence for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Florence?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Florence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. 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 Florence, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Florence?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

In Florence, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historical destination offers. 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 Florence 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Florence, 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 Florence Expensive?.

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

Florence has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Florence. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more rain than Florence. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Florence. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere. Additionally, many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Florence. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Florence and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Stratford-upon-Avon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Florence. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Florence and Stratford-upon-Avon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Florence. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Stratford-upon-Avon