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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a idyllic, peaceful, and park-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include food and theater.

Versailles

Versailles is a ornate, opulent, and historic palace. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Versailles are popular destinations, Stratford-upon-Avon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Stratford-upon-Avon is very popular for its theatre productions, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Versailles attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Versailles is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its long running history and its grand architecture. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. It is also well known for Shakespeare's Birthplace.

Shakespeare's Birthplace
Shakespeare's Birthplace

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

Versailles 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 Versailles are world-renowned. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

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 Versailles Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

Stratford-upon-Avon is an amazing town to visit for theatre. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles is not a theatre destination.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

Stratford-upon-Avon is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Stratford-upon-Avon. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

Stratford-upon-Avon is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Versailles does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Versailles does not have a historic old town.


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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

Stratford-upon-Avon is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers lots of family activities. 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

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

Versailles makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

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 Versailles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

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

The public transit in Versailles can get you around easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

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 Versailles a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Versailles

Versailles 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.

Versailles is a very walkable palace. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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 Versailles Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles to fill your time. In our opinion, Stratford-upon-Avon has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon than Versailles. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon than Versailles 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 Stratford-upon-Avon.


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Versailles 1-2

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stratford-upon-Avon, one day is sufficent for most.

In Versailles, many people enjoy the museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Many people visit Versailles for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Versailles, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles?

Stratford-upon-Avon, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful destination of Versailles offers museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Versailles. This palace 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 Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Versailles or Stratford-upon-Avon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Stratford-upon-Avon is £144, while the average daily cost in Versailles is £200. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Stratford-upon-Avon and Versailles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Versailles £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Versailles £220
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Versailles

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon


Hotels in Versailles


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel Prices and Versailles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Versailles £45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also for Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Stratford-upon-Avon To London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Stratford-upon-Avon or Versailles?

Prices for flights to both Versailles and Stratford-upon-Avon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £39
    Versailles £57
Typical Food Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Cheese & Crackers
    £7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Shakespearean Cooking Experience in Stratford-upon-Avon: $163
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $176

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Versailles £39
Typical Entertainment Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Stratford-upon-Avon's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Warwick Castle (2)
    £59
  • Lunch
    £12
  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Tours and Activities in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Day Tour Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon : $254
  • 2-Hour Alpaca Farm Experience in Kenilworth: $33
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $6.99
  • Bath & Stonehenge Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $127
  • City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • Clay Shooting Experience in Warwickshire: $44
  • Cotswold Walks & Villages Tour from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh: $108
  • Cotswolds : 30 Minute Flight Experience: $224
  • Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh: $95
  • Cotswolds Electric Bike Tour- Public Tour max 6 persons: $253
  • Cotswolds Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $95

Tours and Activities in Versailles

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Versailles.

  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Versailles £15
Typical Alcohol Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Stratford-upon-Avon from other travelers:


  • Beers
    £8.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also in Stratford-upon-Avon, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Shakespeare Gin Distillery Tour & Taste: $24
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $25


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


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

Versailles has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Versailles. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 17°C (63°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Versailles this time of the year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Versailles during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Versailles. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Versailles 20°C (68°F)

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

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Versailles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Versailles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Versailles. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 126 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Versailles. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Versailles 13°C (56°F)

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

Both Versailles 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 Versailles for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Versailles can be very cold during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Versailles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Versailles averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Versailles during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stratford-upon-Avon 3°C (38°F) 
    Versailles 5°C (40°F)

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

Both Versailles 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 Versailles because of the natural beauty.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 9°C (48°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Versailles. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Versailles. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Versailles 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Versailles and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Versailles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)


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