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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Toulouse?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a relaxed, dynamic, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulouse. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Toulouse are both popular with visitors, Toulouse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Toulouse is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions and small town charm. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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 Toulouse Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit destination for its shows and theatre. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Toulouse has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

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

Toulouse has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

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 Toulouse?

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

Toulouse is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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

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

Toulouse 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, Toulouse is very family-friendly. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse Better for Couples?

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

Toulouse makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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 Toulouse Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse has some public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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 Toulouse a more walkable city?

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable city. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore 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 Toulouse Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Toulouse?

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

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

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

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

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this 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 Toulouse?

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

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Toulouse?

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.

The destination of Toulouse 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 Toulouse?

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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulouse. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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 Toulouse Expensive?.

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Toulouse. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulouse this time of the year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Toulouse. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn for the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Toulouse for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets more rain in October than Toulouse. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Toulouse and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Toulouse because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon is much colder than Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulouse. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Toulouse and Stratford-upon-Avon during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Toulouse averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Stratford-upon-Avon