A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Windsor vs. Venice for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Windsor or Venice?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Venice? 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 touristy, beautiful, and royal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Venice

Venice is a romantic, cultural, and magical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Windsor and Venice: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
  • Home to St. Mark's Basilica
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Windsor or Venice?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Venice. Although Windsor and Venice are both popular with visitors, Venice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Venice is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Windsor is known for its nightlife and small town charm. Venice is more touristy than Windsor and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Windsor different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Windsor
Venice

Venice 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 Venice are among the most recognizable in the world. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto 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 Venice? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Venice

Foodies will find both Windsor and Venice both to be good 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.

Venice is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Windsor or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Venice

Windsor is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Is Windsor or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Venice

Venice is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. 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.

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 Venice?

Windsor
Venice

Venice is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Venice make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Venice Better for Families?

Windsor
Venice

Venice is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Venice is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Windsor or Venice Better for Couples?

Windsor
Venice

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

Venice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Venice

Venice is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Venice is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Venice Better for Students?

Windsor
Venice

Venice is a world-class destination for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Many students frequent 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Windsor
Venice

Venice is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Windsor or Venice a more walkable city?

Windsor
Venice

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

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Venice?

Both Windsor 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 Windsor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 2-7 days is enough time in Venice.

Families should spend more time in Venice than Windsor. 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 Windsor. 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 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 Venice.


  • How many days in Windsor or Venice? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Venice 2-7

One day in Windsor or Venice?

Windsor 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, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Windsor or Venice?

Windsor is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Venice, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer.


Five days in Windsor or Venice?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. 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.

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Venice?

Windsor 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Venice. In Venice, you'll find museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Venice 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 Venice is £196. 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 Venice in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Venice £102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Venice £204
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Venice

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Venice? 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 Venice


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 Venice Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Venice £23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Venice

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Venice:


  • Venice 12 Hour Transport Pass
    £14
  • Vaporetto Ride
    £5.56
  • 1 Day Travel Card
    £15
  • 7 Day Transport Card (for Two)
    £86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Venice

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

  • Airport Marco Polo (VCE) to Chioggia - Arrival Private Transfer: $60
  • Arrival Transfer: Marco Polo Airport VCE to Venice (Luxury Van): $195
  • Arrival Transfer: Marco Polo Airport VCE to Venice in Sedan Car: $191
  • Bologna Airport:1-Way Private Transfer to Venice+water taxi: $831
  • Burano + water taxi to Ravenna or Cruise Port -Departure Transfer: $163
  • Burano + water taxi to Venice Airport (VCE) - Departure Transfer: $98
  • Burano +water taxi to Trieste or port -Departure Private Transfer: $163
  • Chioggia Port : One Way Transfer to Venice City + water taxi: $513
  • Chioggia Port : One Way Transfer to Venice, Piazzale Roma: $428
  • Departure Transfer: Venice to Marco Polo Airport VCE (Luxury Van): $195
  • Departure Transfer: Venice to Marco Polo Airport VCE in Sedan Car: $191
  • From Marco Polo Airport: Speedboat Transfer to Venice: $267

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Venice?

Prices for flights to both Venice 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
    Venice £55
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Venice

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Venice:


  • Panini Sandwich
    £3.42
  • Gelato
    £5.13
  • Artichoke & Mushroom Pizza
    £6.76
  • Expresso
    £1.67
  • Slice of Pizza
    £1.91
  • Three Course Dinner (for Two)
    £68

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Venice

For Venice, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings: $47
  • Venice Street Food Tour with a Native & Top Rated Expert: $48
  • Venice Street Food Tour with Local Guide with Local Food Market Visit: $48
  • Street Food Tour of Venice in 2.5 hours: $48
  • Guided City Highlights and Street Food Tour: $51
  • Venetian Dinner: $62
  • Twilight Food Tour with Cicchetti and Spritz Tasting: $63
  • Venetian Dinner: $68
  • 2-Course Dinner in a Typical Venetian Restaurant: $74
  • Guided Small Group Kickstart Food Tour of Venice : $76
  • Tiramisù cooking class and tasting in Treviso: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Venice £86

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: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Typical Entertainment Prices in Venice

For Venice, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Venice Boat Ride
    £13
  • Bell tower of St. Mark Entrance Fee
    £6.85
  • Gondola Ride (for Group)
    £68
  • Secret Itinerary Tour- Doge's Palace
    £14
  • The Jewish Museum Admission
    £2.57
  • The Glass Museum in Murano
    £6.85

Tours and Activities in Venice

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

  • Venezia: Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Venice self guided audio tour: $4.27
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Jewish Ghetto: $4.60
  • Self Guided Audio Tour to The Jewish Ghetto of Venice : $4.69
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.81
  • Venezia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $5.23
  • From 1-Way Bus Ticket to Florence or Vice Versa: $5.31
  • Digital Audio Guide Tour of The Jewish Ghetto: $5.35
  • independent walking tour with an audio guide: $5.35
  • walking tour with audio guide in French: $5.35
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Venice: $5.44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Venice £21

Typical Alcohol Prices in Venice

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Venice:


  • 1/2 Liter Wine
    £4.45
  • Beer
    £4.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Venice

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Venice:

  • Guided Tour and wine tasting 5 wines to discover the Conegliano Valdobbiadene: $27
  • Guided Visit and Wine Tasting at the Winery in Veneto: $27
  • Wine Tasting in Venice: $37
  • Wine Tasting in Venice: $39
  • private tour in the city and wine tasting: $50
  • Wine tasting Asolo Prosecco at Tenuta Baron: $59
  • Food and Wine Tasting Bar Tour & Evening Guided Tour: $72
  • Venetian Style Carnival Pub Crawl: $79
  • Venetian Style Carnival Pub Crawl: $82
  • Eat, drink and repeat: Wine tasting tour in Venice: $98
  • Authentic Neighborhood Cicchetti Food & Wine Tour: $105
  • A Venetian Evening - Wine Tasting & Tapas tour with a Local guide: $108


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Venice?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor or Venice?

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 Windsor or Venice in the Summer?

Both Venice and Windsor during the summer are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is cooler than Venice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Venice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Venice, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Venice. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Venice. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Venice 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Venice. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Venice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Windsor is generally cooler than Venice. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Venice during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Windsor usually receives less rain than Venice. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Venice 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Venice in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Venice. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Venice can be very cold during winter. Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. Windsor is much warmer than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Venice. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Venice. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Venice 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Venice because of the natural beauty.

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

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Venice during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Venice. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Venice 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Venice and Windsor

Windsor Venice
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)