A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Windsor vs. Bath for Attractions, Couples, Old Town, and Food

Should you visit Windsor or Bath?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Windsor or Bath? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a royal, traditional, and touristy town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Bath

Bath is a architectural, charming, and historical spa town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor and Bath: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Historic Roman Baths


Is there more to do in Windsor or Bath?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bath. Although Windsor and Bath are popular destinations, Bath has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bath is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Windsor attracts visitors for its small town charm. Windsor is famous for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Bath is famous for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums. It is also well known for The Historic Roman Baths.

The Historic Roman Baths
The Historic Roman Baths

How is Windsor different from Bath?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bath and Windsor. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Bath?

Windsor
Bath

Bath is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bath are among the most recognizable in the world. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Bath? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Bath

Foodies will find both Windsor and Bath both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Bath is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Is Windsor or Bath Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Bath

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Bath.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

If you're looking for night time activities Bath has a few options to choose from. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

Is Windsor or Bath Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Bath

Bath is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bath. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Bath?

Windsor
Bath

Bath is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bath is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Bath Better for Families?

Windsor
Bath

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Bath.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Bath offers lots of family activities. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.

Is Windsor or Bath Better for Couples?

Windsor
Bath

Bath is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Bath makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.


Is Windsor or Bath Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Bath

Bath is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bath. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Bath Better for Students?

Windsor
Bath

Bath is well known for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Bath is a very popular spa town for students and younger travelers. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

Windsor is not popular with students.

Is Windsor or Bath Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Windsor
Bath

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Bath.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

While Bath offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.


Is Windsor or Bath a more walkable city?

Windsor
Bath

Bath is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Bath on foot is easy. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Bath Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bath or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Bath?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Windsor and Bath. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bath than in Windsor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bath.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bath than Windsor 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 Bath.


  • How many days in Windsor or Bath? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Bath 1-3

One day in Windsor or Bath?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bath, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This spa town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Windsor or Bath?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. 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.

In Bath, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bath has to offer.


Five days in Windsor or Bath?

Windsor 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.

Bath is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Bath?

Because Windsor 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bath. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bath. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 2-Week Tours from London, The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Bath or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Bath is £141. 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 Windsor and Bath in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Bath £79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Bath £158
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Bath

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Bath? 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 Windsor


Hotels in Bath


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Bath Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Bath £26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $560
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath

Also for Bath, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bath to Heathrow Airport private airport transfer: $290
  • Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $21

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Bath?

Prices for flights to both Bath and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Bath £43
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Bath £17

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $229
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $349
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,991
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $361
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Windsor Castle Private Tour with Admission: $373

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thermal Bath Spa
    £35

Tours and Activities in Bath

For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • The Splendour of Georgian and Victorian Era A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Medieval A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the City Wall: $5.99
  • Jane Austen Self Guided Tour: $6.48
  • Highlights from Bath’s Canal Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bath : 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour With An App: $9.99
  • 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour in Bath with An App: $9.99
  • Bridgeton Walking Tour with an APP: $9.99
  • Bath Self-Guided Private Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Jane Austen Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour in Bath: $13
  • Bath & Stonehenge City Break from London - Self-Guided Tours: $13
  • Bath Private Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Bath £14

Sample the Local Flavors in Bath

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


When comparing the travel costs between Windsor and Bath, we can see that Windsor is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Windsor Expensive? and Is Bath Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Bath?

Bath has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Bath, 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.