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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Lyon?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the food and theater.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Lyon: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lyon than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions and small town charm. Lyon is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon 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 Lyon are world-renowned. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an amazing town to visit for its theatre productions. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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

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

Lyon 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, Lyon offers plenty to see. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

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 Lyon?

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

Lyon is well-known for its shopping. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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

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

Lyon 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, Lyon is very family-friendly. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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 Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

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 Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon 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 Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors in Lyon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon a more walkable city?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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 Lyon Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lyon?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

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

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lyon?

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.

Each neighborhood in Lyon 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon 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 Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lyon?

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.

Each neighborhood in Lyon 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 Lyon, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Lyon?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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 Lyon Expensive?.

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

Lyon 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 Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Lyon. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Lyon. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Lyon. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Lyon and Stratford-upon-Avon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can be very cold during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Lyon. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Lyon. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Lyon. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Stratford-upon-Avon