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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Venice?

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 Venice 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.

Venice

Venice is a cultural, magical, and historic city. 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 shopping, museums, and food.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Venice: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Venice. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Venice are both popular with visitors, Venice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Venice is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions and small town charm. Venice is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice 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 Venice are world-renowned. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Venice is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Stratford-upon-Avon is world-class. 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.

Venice is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Venice can be an enjoyable experience.

Stratford-upon-Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Venice area. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Venice is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Venice. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

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

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

Venice 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, Venice offers plenty to see. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 Venice?

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

Known for shopping, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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

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

Venice 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, Venice is very family-friendly. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice Better for Couples?

Venice 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, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice Better for Students?

Venice 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 Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Venice 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 Venice can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Venice?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Venice have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice 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 Venice.

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

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

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

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Venice?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Venice, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quaint 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 Venice?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Venice 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 Venice, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Venice?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Venice, 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 Venice, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Venice?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Venice, many people enjoy the museums and food that this magical 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 Venice 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Venice, we can see that Venice 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive?.

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

Venice has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Venice. The summer months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Venice during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Venice. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Venice. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Venice. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Venice. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Venice. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Venice and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Venice in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Venice can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

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

In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Venice. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Venice and Stratford-upon-Avon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Venice for the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Venice. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Venice. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Venice and Stratford-upon-Avon