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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a quaint, charming, and peaceful coastal town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Stratford-upon-Avon and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in La Rochelle than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. La Rochelle is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions. La Rochelle is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. Also, La Rochelle is famous for The Old Port. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is very popular for its theatre productions. However, La Rochelle is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Stratford-upon-Avon draw crowds from around the world. 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.

La Rochelle is not a theatre destination.

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

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

La Rochelle has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

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

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

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

La Rochelle 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, La Rochelle offers plenty to see. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle is very good for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

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

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle Better for Families?

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

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 La Rochelle. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

La Rochelle 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, La Rochelle has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Rochelle is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

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 La Rochelle Better for Students?

La Rochelle is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit La Rochelle. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle has some public transit options. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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 La Rochelle a more walkable city?

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is a very walkable coastal town. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored 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 La Rochelle Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town with plenty to do. Most people visit for the theater. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In La Rochelle, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this small town destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the food. 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 La Rochelle?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit La Rochelle for a weekend. Lots of people come for the food. 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 La Rochelle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle?

Because Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The small town destination of La Rochelle offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle?

Since Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the theater. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting La Rochelle. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal town 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 Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

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 La Rochelle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and La Rochelle. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than La Rochelle in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Rochelle this time of the year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as La Rochelle. The autumn months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town atmosphere. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than La Rochelle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both La Rochelle and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally much colder than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than La Rochelle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both La Rochelle and Stratford-upon-Avon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm. Furthermore, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than La Rochelle in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as La Rochelle. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Stratford-upon-Avon