Paris Vs London – Which European City Crowns Your Dream Vacation? (2024)

English grandeur or Parisian flair? Dive into our London vs Paris guide before you decide on your perfect European getaway.

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ByShubhanjana Das Published: Jun 21, 2024 08:00 AM HKT11 min read

Paris Vs London – Which European City Crowns Your Dream Vacation? (1)

Picking a holiday destination between the City of Love and the Big Smoke can feel confusing and overwhelming. Both cities boast rich history, iconic landmarks, and unique cultural experiences. In London, witness landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace as well as its vibrant street art scene and diverse culinary offerings. When in Paris, one can’t miss THE Eiffel Tower, the quaint cobblestone streets of Montmartre, world-class cuisine, picturesque gardens, and the city’s renowned museums. While this choice will boil down to what kind of a holiday you’re looking for – being in a bustling metropolis or basking in laidback romantic vibes, deciding between London vs Paris can be a hard decision if you don’t know what to expect. Let us help you figure it out!

Best time to visit London vs Paris

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The most important criterion for a pleasant holiday is the weather. Figuring out which month you are planning your holiday in and the ideal weather conditions for London or Paris for that respective time is one of the easiest ways you can make your decision.

London: The best time to visit London is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and tourist crowds are manageable. You will enjoy pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the city’s many attractions without the summer crowds or winter chill.

Paris: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) seasons are the best time to visit Paris. During these months, the weather is mild, and the city is adorned with blooming flowers or colourful autumn foliage. Additionally, tourist crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months, making it easier to explore Paris’s attractions comfortably.

Budget required for Paris vs London

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Paris travel cost tends to be slightly more compared to London travel cost. In Paris, expect to spend around USD 500-1,000 (HKD 3,910-7,820) per night for a luxury hotel, while London luxury accommodations range from USD 400-800 (HKD 3,128-6,256). Dining in Paris can also be pricier, with fine dining restaurants costing upwards of USD 200 (HKD 1,564) per person. However, both cities offer exquisite experiences worth the investment, from Michelin-starred dining to exclusive shopping districts. Overall, budgeting around USD 1,000-2,000 (HKD 7,820-15,641) per day in either city ensures a memorable and indulgent stay.

Best places to visit in London Vs Paris

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Whether you choose London or Paris, be sure you won’t run out of places to visit and explore, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, culture nerd or foodie.

London: Some of the most popular London tourist places include the majestic Buckingham Palace, the historic Tower of London, and the vibrant Covent Garden. Stroll along the picturesque South Bank, visit the renowned British Museum, or experience the bustling atmosphere of Camden Market. Don’t miss the stunning views from the London Eye or a leisurely boat ride along the River Thames.

Explore our guide to the most beautiful castles in London.

Paris: Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum make for some of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris. You should also explore the charming streets of Montmartre, wander through the elegant Jardin des Tuileries, and enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Seine River. Indulge in exquisite French cuisine at sidewalk cafes and experience the romantic ambience of the Latin Quarter.

Things to do in Paris vs London

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There are a lot of things to do in Paris and London, with abundant meals, snacks and drink breaks to check out both the cities’ vibrant culinary landscapes, of course.

London: This list of things to do in London is your essential city guide as a first-timer – witness the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, a ride on the iconic London Eye for panoramic views, and a stroll through Hyde Park. Explore the historical Tower of London, marvel at the British Museum’s treasures, and catch a West End show. Indulge in fish and chips, then hop on a red double-decker bus for sightseeing!

Shopping guide – London vs Paris

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When it comes to shopping, the London vs Paris argument gets the hardest. With unique and equally covetable offerings, you’d be amiss not to take a treasure trove of souvenirs back with you.

London: In London, treat yourself to British classics like a tea set from Fortnum & Mason or Harrods, or a tartan scarf from Liberty London. Pick up quirky souvenirs like a Paddington Bear or Harry Potter memorabilia from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station. For unique finds, explore Camden Market’s stalls or Covent Garden’s artisanal shops. Remember, a bit of British charm fits perfectly in your suitcase!

FromHaute Couture to High Street, these are the best places to shop in London

Paris: You can’t conclude your Parisian trip without buying a bottle of fine wine from La Cave des Papilles or gourmet chocolates from Maison du Chocolat. Treat yourself to chic fashion finds from Galeries Lafayette or Le Bon Marché. For artsy treasures, explore the stalls along the Seine at Bouquinistes or visit Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen for vintage collectables. Whatever you choose, Parisian souvenirs are a delightful way to bring home a piece of the City of Light!

Best hotels in London and Paris

In the London vs Paris debate, the only thing you won’t have to worry about is accommodation. If you consider yourself a connoisseur of all things fine and luxurious, the hotels in both cities will spoil you with the best-in-class service. You can go for your most tried and trusted name or try a new place. London or Paris surely won’t disappoint.

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London: Experience opulent luxury at The Ritz London, renowned for its timeless elegance and impeccable service. The Dorchester, situated in the heart of Mayfair, offers lavish accommodations and Michelin-starred dining. For a blend of heritage and modernity, The Langham London impresses with its refined ambience. The Savoy, with its rich history and riverside views, promises a truly indulgent stay. Meanwhile, Claridge’s exudes classic charm and sophistication, making it a favourite among discerning travellers.

Book your stay at The Ritz London via Agoda.com

Book your stay at The Ritz London via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Dorchester, London via Agoda.com

Best restaurants and food in Paris and London

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If you’re a foodie, travelling to London or Paris just for the food is itself a holiday worth every penny. With cuisines from around the world and twists on their local favourites, you’d need to have more than five meals a day to experience every food item worth having in these two cities.

London: Savour traditional fish and chips at The Golden Hind, a local favourite since 1914. Relish classic British pies at The Windmill Mayfair, offering a cosy pub atmosphere. Treat yourself to afternoon tea at The Ritz London surrounded by its elegant setting and a plethora of delectable pastries. For a taste of multicultural London, explore Borough Market’s diverse culinary offerings. And remember, London’s food is best had when you keep yourself open to experiments!

For a burst of flavours, check out our selection of the best Indian restaurants in London

Paris: It’s only after trying Paris’ food that you will truly understand the charm of French cuisine that chefs around the world gush about. When in the City of Love, have your fill of buttery, crispy croissants and fluffy French pastries at Du Pain et des Idées, a beloved bakery in the 10th arrondissem*nt. Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Grand Véfour, a historic Michelin-starred restaurant dating back to 1784. Sample delectable macarons at Ladurée, a Parisian institution renowned for its colourful confections. Enjoy traditional French onion soup at Au Pied de Cochon, a lively brasserie open 24/7 in the heart of Les Halles. Treat yourself to creamy escargot at L’Escargot Montorgueil, a charming bistro specialising in this classic French delicacy.

Shop the best travel experiences here.

All currency conversions were done at the time of writing

(Feature Image Credit: Heidi Fin/Unsplash)

Related:Barcelona Vs Paris – Your Guide To The Perfect European Escape

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What sets London and Paris apart as travel destinations?
London is known for its royal landmarks and diverse cultural scene, while Paris boasts iconic architecture and romantic charm.

Which city is better for historical landmarks and museums?
Paris excels in historical landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, while London offers renowned museums like the British Museum.

Is there a significant difference in culinary experiences between London and Paris?
Paris offers refined French cuisine, while London offers diverse international flavours.

London Vs Paris: Which city is more budget-friendly for travellers?
London tends to be more budget-friendly for travellers compared to Paris.

Which city offers a better shopping experience?
Paris provides a high-end shopping experience with luxury boutiques, while London offers a mix of high-street and designer brands.

Is there a notable difference in the public transportation systems of London and Paris?
London has an extensive tube network, while Paris has an efficient metro system.

London vs Paris: Which city is more family-friendly for tourists with children?
Both cities offer family-friendly attractions, but London has more parks and family-oriented museums.

Are there significant differences in the architectural styles of London and Paris?
London showcases Victorian and contemporary architecture, while Paris is known for its Haussmannian buildings.

Is there a difference in the atmosphere and lifestyle of London and Paris?
London has a bustling, cosmopolitan vibe, while Paris exudes a romantic and elegant ambience.

Which city is more suitable for a first-time visitor to Europe?
London’s English-speaking environment makes it more accessible for first-time European visitors, but Paris offers quintessential European charm.

Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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