London vs Paris: Where should you go?
London and Paris, two of the Europe’s largest and most iconic cities, each offer unique experiences, landmarks, and world-class food! The choice will come down to your personality and preferences, but I’ll try my best to give an unbiased breakdown of both cities. In this blog, I compare London and Paris across several criteria: Cuisine, Walkability/Public Transport, Affordability, Sights, and Culture. I designate a “winner” in each category based on my personal judgment.
Cuisine
London
London’s culinary scene is incredibly diverse, reflecting the city’s multicultural population. Many people describe London as the “New York City” of Europe, and it’s limitless cuisine options is a testament to this. London excels in authentic and modernized Indian, Malaysian, Middle-Eastern, and Italian cuisines. You can also find traditional British fare like fish and chips and English tea time treats! Borough Market and Camden Market are must-visit spots for food lovers, offering everything from gourmet dishes to street food.
Top Dishes: Fish and Chips, Full English Breakfast, Sunday Roast, Indian Curry, Afternoon Tea
Paris
Paris is renowned for its refined and elegant culinary experiences. It offers less diversity but has its’s own unique French cuisine that is celebrated worldwide. From buttery croissants and fresh baguettes to exquisite dishes like coq au vin and duck confit, the city promises a gastronomic adventure. Fresh crepes with homemade chantilly are also amazing and definitely give some extra points to Paris.
Top Dishes: Croissants, French Onion Soup, Boeuf Bourguignon, Duck Confit, Escargot, Crepes
Cuisine Winner: Paris
Walkability/Public Transport
London
London’s public transport system is one of the best in the world. The Underground (Tube) is extensive and efficient, covering most of the city and beyond. Buses and trains complement the Tube, making it easy to get around. While the city is walkable, distances can be long, so using public transport is often more practical. Also, the infamous “Mind The Gap” phrase has to give London some brownie points!
Weekly Transit Pass: £38.40 for a Zones 1-2 Travelcard, providing unlimited travel within central London.
Paris
Paris excels in public transportation, boasting one of the most efficient and extensive metro systems in the world. The city’s layout and well-connected metro lines make it easy to navigate and reach various attractions quickly. Paris is also very walkable, with many landmarks situated along the scenic Seine River. The combination of reliable public transit and walkable neighborhoods makes getting around Paris a breeze, perfect for travelers who prioritize convenience.
Weekly Transit Pass: €36.00 for a Navigo Weekly Pass, providing unlimited travel on Paris’s public transportation network for one week (a “week” is strictly Monday to Sunday).
Transportation Winner: London
Affordability
London
London is known for being one of the more expensive cities in Europe. Accommodation, dining, and attractions can be pricey, but there are ways to save money. Street food markets and budget eateries offer affordable dining options. Many museums and galleries, like the British Museum and the National Gallery, have free entry. Also, due to the pound to dollar conversion rate being less favorable, a week in London will cost American traveler’s more than Paris for similar quality restaurants and accommodation.
Attractions: Tower of London £29.90, London Eye £32.50
Average Cost of Meal: £10-15 for budget meal, £40-60 for a 3-course meal at a higher-end restaurant.
Average Nightly Stay: Budget hotel/Airbnb £60-120, mid-range (3-star hotel) £120-250
Paris
Paris is also known for being one of the more expensive European capitals. Dining, especially at well-known restaurants, and accommodation can be pricey. However, the city offers a range of options to suit different budgets, from affordable bistros and cafes to luxury dining experiences. Attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower also come with entry fees, but I was surprised to find that these attractions were similarly priced to London.
Attractions: Eiffel Tower €18.10 (adult), €9.00 (youth 12-24) | Louvre Museum: €17.00
Average Cost of Meal: €14-20 for budget meal, €40-65 for a 3-course meal at a higher-end restaurant.
Average Nightly Stay: Budget hotel/Airbnb €60-120, mid-range (3-star hotel) €120-250
Affordability Winner: Paris
Sights
London
London is a city steeped in history and culture, with iconic landmarks at every turn. From the historic Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to the modern marvels of the London Eye and The Shard, there’s something for everyone. The city’s many parks, like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, offer a green escape from the urban hustle. London offers a really unique experience in that it is an impressive blend of the old and new. You can go from the modern financial district to the quaint, cobblestone streets of old town London in 20 minutes.
Top Sights: Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, British Museum, London Eye
Paris
Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks and museums. The city’s well-preserved architecture and beautifully laid-out streets make it a joy to explore on foot. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral are iconic sights that draw millions of visitors each year. A serene Seine River tour offers a unique perspective of Paris’s stunning architecture, including the elegant bridges and grand facades lining the riverbanks, making for an unforgettable Parisian experience. Paris also offers a rich array of cultural experiences, from its many art galleries to its vibrant theater scene. It is a very clean and dainty city that gives an impression of sophistication and charm.
Top Sights: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral
Sights Winner: London
Culture
London
London’s culture is a blend of its rich history and modern vibrancy. The city’s diverse population contributes to a vibrant cultural scene, with a multitude of museums, theaters, and galleries. London’s West End is renowned for its world-class theater productions, while the city’s music scene is legendary. Annual events like the Notting Hill Carnival and the New Year’s Eve fireworks add to the city’s cultural richness.
Cultural Feel: Diverse, dynamic, historic
Paris
Paris is synonymous with sophistication, art, and intellectualism. Parisians have a reputation for being a little snobby and occasionally rude to foreigners, although we did not experience this on our trip. The city has been a center for literature, fashion, and art for centuries. From the avant-garde Marais district to the literary cafes of Saint-Germain-des-PrĂ©s, Paris breathes creativity. The city’s fashion scene is world-renowned, and its theaters, opera houses, and galleries reflect its deep cultural roots. The city is also very romantic with strolls along the Seine River being unparalleled to any other city!
Cultural Feel: Sophisticated, fashionable, romantic
Cultural Winner: Paris
Conclusion
Choosing between London and Paris is really difficult. Personally, I enjoyed walking around Paris more because of it’s unique architecture and the romantic Seine river. However, if you’re drawn to a more diverse culinary scene, rich history, and dynamic culture, London is probably the choice for you. Both cities promise unforgettable experiences, so really can’t go wrong! Hopefully this breakdown is helpful in deciding your next trip. Comment below which city you prefer!
