A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom York vs. London for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit York or London?

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

Should I visit York or London? 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.

York

York is a fanciful, historic, and medieval city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

London

London is a historic, diverse, and iconic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

York and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or London?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than York. London is bigger than York, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while York is more popular for its food and historical sights. London is more touristy than York and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. York is well known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

Big Ben

How is York different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in York or London?

London is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in London that are not to be missed. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

Is York or London Better for Theater?

London is a world-class destination for theatre. However, York is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in London draw crowds from around the world. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

York is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in York or London? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

York has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is York or London Better for Nightlife?

London is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to London just to party. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is York or London Better for Music?

London is a world-class destination for live music. However, York is not a live music destination.

London is a world class music destination. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

York is not a live music destination.

Is York or London Better for its Old Town?

York is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

York has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in York or London?

London is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

London is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or London Better for Christmas?

London is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, York does not offer Christmas activities.

London is a world class destination during the Christmas season. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

York does not offer Christmas activities.

Is York or London Better for Christmas Markets?

London is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, York does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to London specifically for the Christmas markets. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

York does not offer Christmas markets.

Is York or London Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either York or London.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, York is a very family-friendly destination. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

Is York or London Better for Couples?

London is a world-class destination for romance. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

London makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Is York or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

London is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Many backpackers visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Is York or London Better for Students?

London is a world-class destination for students. However, York is not popular with students.

Many students frequent London. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

York is not popular with students.

Is York or London Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

London is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in London can get you around easily. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is York or London a more walkable city?

London is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around London on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

For even more information, also check out Is York Worth Visiting? and Is London Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in London or York?

How long in York or London?

Both York and London have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in York. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 3-7 days is enough time in London.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than York 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 London.

One day in York or London?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of York. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

London is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or London?

York is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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.

London is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

London is a international big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in York or London?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of York. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

London is a international city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between York and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is York much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to York would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in York 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 London would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in London than you might in York.

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

Which is Bigger, York or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York and London, 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 York or London?

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 York or London in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to York as well as London. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to York this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, York is generally around the same temperature as London. Daily temperatures in York average around 16°C (62°F), and London fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the summer, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as London. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 195 hours of full sun.

York usually gets more rain in July than London. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or London in the Autumn?

Both London and York are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to York for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to London in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

York is around the same temperature as London in the autumn. The daily temperature in York averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as London during autumn. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, York usually receives less rain than London. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit York or London in the Winter?

Both London and York during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to York in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

London can be very cold during winter. York can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, York is cooler than London. Typically, the winter temperatures in York in January average around 4°C (39°F), and London averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, York often gets more sunshine than London. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 52 hours of full sun.

York usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as London. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or London in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both York and London. Also, the spring months attract visitors to London because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, York is generally cooler than London. Daily temperatures in York average around 8°C (46°F), and London fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as London during spring. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, York usually receives around the same amount of rain as London. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for London and York