But, even though many of us see London and New York in countless movies and TV shows, nothing quite beats the experience of actually being there, soaking up the unique vibes and atmosphere of these sprawling cities. That’s just one of the reasons why both of them rank among the most-visited places of all, drawing in millions of visitors each year.

Other awesome reasons to head to the British capital or the Big Apple include these cities’ super shopping scenes, world-class restaurants, thrilling nightlife scenes, and rich range of cultural activities. But, since they’re so far apart, you can’t exactly hop from one to the other with ease. Instead, if you’re looking for a big city adventure, you’ll have to pick one or the other.

So, which should you choose? Well, that’s what this guide is here to help you decide. Below, we’ll put London and NYC to the test, exploring everything that makes these two cities so special, as well as comparing them in several key areas, from food and shopping to nightlife and live entertainment. By the end, you should know exactly which one is right for you.

Contents:

• A Quick Overview Of London vs New York
• Which Has The Best Weather?
• Which Is Best For Activities?
• Which Is Best For Nightlife?
• Which Is Best For Live Entertainment?
• Which Is Best For Shopping?
• Which Is Best For Food?
• Which Is Best For Families?
• Which Is Best For Couples?
• Which Is Best For Backpackers?
• Which Is Cheapest?
• Where To Stay According To Your Budget
• London vs New York: Which Is Better?

Wandering Our World’s Ten-Second Comparison:

A Quick Overview Of London vs New York

London: A Quick Overview

London is the largest city in the United Kingdom, as well as being the country’s capital city. It’s located in the southeast part of England, on the River Thames. Boasting a massive population of around 8.8 million, with over 14.8 million in the metropolitan area, London is the biggest city in all of Western Europe.

Compared to New York, London is a very old city. It was settled by the Romans around 47 AD and served as the capital of Roman Britain, at which time it was known as Londinium, before undergoing countless changes across the ages. It has many centuries-old buildings that are still standing to this day, like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey.

In modern times, London is one of the world’s leading global cities, with the strongest economy in all of Europe. It’s a leading light in many fields, from education and finance to fashion, art, culture, and more. London is also famed for its exceptional diverse city, with people from all over the globe and over 300 languages spoken across the city.

Boasting some of Europe’s most famous landmarks, like Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, London is a terrific touristic destination. It has vast green spaces, dozens of world-class museums and galleries, live entertainment, Michelin-starred restaurants, family attractions, and a super shopping scene, too, appealing to all sorts of travelers.

New York: A Quick Overview

New York, also known by other names like NYC or the Big Apple, is the most populous city in the United States. It’s located on a natural harbor at the southern end of New York State, and it’s home to around 8.3 million people, with more than 20 million in the full metropolitan area, making it the most densely populated big city in the U.S.

While London’s history goes back almost two thousand years, NYC is a much younger city. It began life as Fort Amsterdam, a small trading post created by Dutch settlers in the 1620s. The name later changed to New Amsterdam, and the city began to grow, soon coming under British control and gaining its name of New York, in honor of the Duke of York.

As the years went by, New York evolved into one of the biggest and most powerful cities on the planet. Like London, it has become a global leader in many fields, from entertainment and media to finance, technology, and education. It’s also home to the United Nations’ headquarters and is sometimes regarded as the “Capital of the World,” due to its fame and influence.

The setting of countless movies, shows, books, and other forms of media, NYC is known far and wide for its towering skyscrapers and iconic landmarks, like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty. There are also lots of museums here, along with live entertainment venues, like the many famous theaters of Broadway, giving visitors lots of different things to do.

Which Has The Best Weather?

Weather-wise, London and New York are quite different. Many people picture London as wet and gray, but New York gets close to twice as much precipitation as the British capital each year. London is also milder than New York throughout the year, with more consistent temperatures and fewer extremes.

In contrast, the weather is often quite variable in New York, with cold and snowy winters and hotter summers than London. NYC also gets more sunny days compared to London. So, if you want a scorching summer or snowy Christmas visit, head to New York. If you prefer milder and gentler weather, London will be more appealing to you.

Which Is Best For Activities?

London and New York both boast a plethora of attractions and activities to enjoy, giving visitors an almost endless range of experiences to fill up their daily itineraries. Whether you’re into shopping, history, culture, sport, art, or family fun, you’ll find it all in either of these mega metropolises. Here’s a look at the best things to do in both cities.

London: The Activities

Most visitors to London, especially first-timers, will want to wander around and see the sights. And the British capital has an exceptionally long list of sights to see, including the world-famous Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Nelson’s Column. Best of all, many of the most famous landmarks are all quite close together and easy to access.

When you’re through with the landmarks and historic buildings, you can dive into London’s museum scene. This city houses some of the world’s greatest treasures, with extraordinary artwork and artifacts to admire. Must-sees include the British Museum, which has the biggest collection of works in the world, as well as the Natural History and Science Museums.

London is also a surprisingly green city, with lots of parks and gardens to discover. There’s the vast Hyde Park, which covers around 350 acres of the city’s center, along with Regent’s Park, Green Park, St. James’s Park, Kew Gardens, Kensington Gardens, and more. These peaceful spaces provide the perfect counterbalance to the busy and crowded city streets.

Then, there are all of London’s family attractions, like its zoo, aquarium, and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, which takes visitors behind the scenes of the Harry Potter movies. You could also ride the London Eye, admire the sights from the top of the Shard, brave the haunting London Dungeon, or simply roam around, exploring the many streets and districts that make the city what it is.

New York: The Activities

New York is also a world-class sightseeing destination, with some remarkable landmarks. In fact, the entire city is a sight to behold, famed for its massive skyscrapers and towering bridges that stretch across the Hudson and East Rivers. Key sights to see include the iconic Empire State Building, symbolic Statue of Liberty, and the bright lights of Times Square.

Like London, New York is also a global leader in museums, home to some of the world’s most famous artworks and precious treasures from the past. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the best to visit, with over two million objects in total spanning 5,000 years of human history, as well as the MoMA, where you can admire stunning creations from masters like Picasso.

If the chaos of the city is a little too much, visitors can escape into NYC’s gigantic Central Park. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this park extends across 843 acres and is home to a range of attractions and diverse landscapes, including the vast Sheep Meadow, where festivals and concerts are often held, or the Hallett Nature Sanctuary, a great spot for bird-watching.

New York also offers many observation decks and viewing platforms from its tallest structures, giving you awesome views from several hundred feet in the air. There’s also a large zoo here, along with an aquarium, a massive Madame Tussauds, fun-filled family fairgrounds like Coney Island, and even a few beaches just a short drive from the downtown districts.

Overall, there’s a whole lot to do in both of these cities, and their lists of attractions are quite similar in many ways. They’re both brilliant for museums and cultural activities. However, London has the edge in terms of history and green spaces, while New York is best for stunning skyscrapers.

Which Is Best For Nightlife?

Evidently, London and New York are both jam-packed with awesome activities to keep you busy during the day. But how about in the evenings? Well, when it comes to nightlife, the pair continue to impress, with clubs, pubs, bars, and live entertainment venues galore.

One of New York City’s nicknames is “The City That Never Sleeps,” and it’s not hard to see why. Long after the sun has set, NYC still pulses with activity, with multiple districts offering clubs, bars, and lounges that stay open almost all night long. Head to the Flatiron District or Chinatown for the very best bars and beverages, or hit up the Meat Packing District for thumping dance clubs.

In London, too, you can stay out late and feel the vibe of the city change as night falls. Big crowds tend to gather in key areas like Soho, Shoreditch, Mayfair, and Dalston. From traditional English pubs to quirky gin bars, wine lounges, LGBT clubs, exclusive rooftop hangouts, and crazy rave venues, there’s a lot of diversity in London’s nightlife scene.

Overall, some people prefer the vibrancy and buzz of New York, while others say that London’s scene is more fun and laid-back, especially for dancing. However, the simple fact is that both cities have super nightlife opportunities, with endless locations to drink, dance, and have a good time.

Which Is Best For Live Entertainment?

Yet another famous feature that London and the Big Apple both share is their legendary live entertainment scenes. In fact, when it comes to the world of theater, these two cities lead the way, with London’s mythical West End shows and New York’s Broadway blockbusters drawing in the biggest crowds and attracting A-list acting talents.

In London, you’ll find all sorts of theaters, ranging from cozy little venues to much grander spaces that have been standing for centuries, like the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which opened in 1663. These spaces are decorative and impressive, putting on some of the best shows around, from iconic musicals like Wicked to murder-mysteries, like The Mousetrap, and experimental dramas, often with big-name stars.

Broadway, too, regularly attracts some superstar talents to appear in its many shows, with the best performances often being bombastic musicals, like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Moulin Rouge. Broadway’s venues tend to be a little bigger than London, but the ticket prices are considerably higher, which can be frustrating for travelers on tight budgets.

Beyond the theater scenes, NYC and London also have lots more to offer. You can find concerts and comedy shows ongoing in both cities pretty much every night of the year. Both also have exciting festival and events calendars, as well as live sport, with multiple professional teams – London has 17 pro soccer teams, while NYC has the Knicks, Jets, Yankees, Mets, and more.

Overall, if you want to be entertained, London and New York are two of the top cities in the world to visit. Their theater scenes are more or less as good as each other, though London has the edge in affordability. Both are also great for music and more, with so many different options to appeal to all tastes.

Which Is Best For Shopping?

London and New York aren’t only famous for their theater and live entertainment scenes. Both cities are also among the very best places in the world to shop, home to two of the most famous shopping streets in the world: Fifth Avenue in New York City and Oxford Street in London. But which city is best to visit if you adore browsing boutiques and exploring stores?

Well, London has the aforementioned Oxford Street, home of big brand chains, as well as places like St. James’s, Covent Garden, Carnaby Street, and Mayfair, offering everything from jewelers and antique stores to indie boutiques and fancy fashion shops. The U.K. capital also has lively markets, like Borough Market, and historic department stores, like Harrods.

Then, there’s NYC. There, shopaholics can stroll down arguably the most famous shopping street worldwide, Fifth Avenue, stopping off at places like Tiffany’s or Louis Vuitton. For more affordable items, check out the souvenir stores of Flatiron, the bargain emporiums of Canal Street, or the funky theme stores around Times Square.

In short, both of these cities are havens for shopping addicts. You can spend entire days browsing the boutiques and still have so many stores left to discover. There are lots of nice souvenir stores dotted about both locations, as well as high-end boutiques, markets, malls, and more.

Which Is Best For Food?

Food is another very closely-fought contest between New York City and London. Both of these cities have dozens of Michelin-starred restaurants for those looking for high-end, gourmet gastronomy, along with hundreds of cozy coffee shops, cafés, bakeries, family-friendly eateries, fast food chains, and more.

While British cuisine hasn’t always had the best reputation, it’s far from the only thing you can sample in London. The U.K. capital has a remarkably diverse culinary scene, with influences from all over the globe. Whether you want classic British fish and chips, Italian pasta, French delights, Asian flavors, Mexican tacos, or something totally different, it’s easy to find it here.

The same can be said of New York City, which also has a wonderfully diverse array of restaurants to suit all tastes and preferences. From 1st class sushi spots and burger bars to legendary pizzerias, delectable delis, and super street food vendors selling hot dogs and bagels, the list goes on and on. Thai, Indian, French, Chinese, Caribbean – NYC has got it all.

Overall, you’re sure to eat well in either city, but New York takes the win here. Its street food and coffee shops are simply out-of-this-world, with so many more fantastic places to eat around every single corner.

Which Is Best For Families?

Families traveling with children of all ages can also have magical experiences in either New York City or London. Both cities have more than enough attractions and activities to keep kids entertained, though one of them may be a little better suited for your family than the other.

London has the benefit of offering more interesting architecture than NYC, as well as plenty of green spaces and play areas. It’s also got lots of family attractions, like London Zoo and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, where kids and grown-ups alike can dive into the world of Harry Potter. Many children will also enjoy London’s historic sights, like the Tower of London.

NYC is also a fun-filled destination for a family vacation, with attractions like Coney Island, Central Park Zoo, and New York Aquarium. Kids will also love the big toy stores and themed shops around Times Square – which are very similar to those in London’s Leicester Square – as well as the fact that the beach is never too far away.

Overall, both cities are once again terrific in this category, but London just about has the edge. This is because it has more family-oriented attractions compared to its American counterpart, plus the fact that London feels a little less gritty than New York and easier to get around, especially with young children.

Which Is Best For Couples?

Couples are also sure of a great time if they choose to visit either London or New York, and both locations can appeal as honeymoon destinations if you and your partner enjoy big city life. But which one is the best?

Well, London is arguably best for couples seeking a mixture of gorgeous architecture, historic attractions, and green spaces. You can walk hand-in-hand in Kew Gardens, explore the stores of Oxford Street, enjoy a romantic meal for two at a Michelin star restaurant, and spend the night taking in a theatrical show on the West End before retreating to your cozy hotel room.

Not to be outdone, New York is also a wonderful destination for lovers’ escapes. The skyscrapers and rich ambiance of the city make it a fantastic place to explore with a partner, and it can feel particularly romantic to ride a carriage through Central Park or take in the city sights from one of the many observation platforms scattered around Manhattan.

All in all, it’s another very close call in this category, and there’s no clear winner. Both cities are terrific for couples, and it all depends on what you want most. For history and museums, head to London, for skyscrapers and fabulous food, pick New York.

Which Is Best For Backpackers?

In spite of their reputations as expensive cities to live in and visit, both London and New York appeal to the backpacking crowd. They both have lots of cheap hostels where backpackers can stay without worrying about expensive hotel rates, along with cheap street food, excellent public transport networks, and long lists of things to do.

London has the benefit of being a bit cheaper, making it more appealing to backpackers on tight budgets. You can make your money last a little longer in the British capital, and it’s possible to walk around the center quite easily, rarely, if ever, needing to use the subway or “London Underground” system at all. Many sights and big museums also offer free entry.

In New York, you’ll have to spend more on touristic attractions, and you’ll most likely have to rely on taxis or the subway to get around and see everything you want to see, as sights are a little more spread out. However, there are still lots of affordable things to do and even free places to visit, like free museum days at the Guggenheim or a walk along the High Line.

Overall, London once more has a slight edge in this category, due to its more affordable nature and more reliable public transport.

Which Is Cheapest?

Price-wise, it’s no secret that London and New York are both quite expensive places to visit. In fact, the pair regularly rank on lists of the priciest vacation destinations, with high rates for things like food, public transport, and accommodation. However, there is a distinct difference between the two, with London being notably cheaper than its U.S. counterpart.

With lower prices across the board, you can expect to spend less in London on things like hotel rooms, snacks, evening meals, drinks, and even entry to major touristic attractions. Even the theater tickets to West End shows tend to cost less than their Broadway equivalents, making London the top pick for budget travelers.

Where To Stay According To Your Budget

London

Budget: Royal Lancaster London exudes timeless elegance with its modern architecture and luxurious interiors. From the opulent lobby adorned with sparkling chandeliers to the panoramic views of Hyde Park and the city skyline, every detail captivates. Indulge in refined dining and unwind in stylish rooms, epitomizing luxury in the heart of London.

Luxury: The Ritz London exudes timeless glamour with its ornate architecture and lavish interiors. Grand chandeliers illuminate opulent ballrooms adorned with intricate detailing. Elegant suites offer sumptuous furnishings and breathtaking views of Piccadilly. Impeccable service, Michelin-starred dining, and a sense of refinement make it a beacon of luxury in London.

New York

Budget: WestHouse Hotel New York epitomizes sophistication with its Art Deco-inspired design and chic ambiance. Luxurious furnishings adorn the elegant lobby, complemented by intimate seating areas. Stylish guest rooms boast modern amenities and plush bedding. With personalized service and stunning city views, it offers an unforgettable retreat in Manhattan.

Luxury: The St. Regis New York exudes timeless elegance with its classic Beaux-Arts architecture and refined interiors. From the majestic marble lobby to the sumptuous guest rooms adorned with bespoke furnishings and crystal chandeliers, every detail exudes luxury. With impeccable service and iconic views of Fifth Avenue, it defines Manhattan sophistication.

London vs New York: Which Is Better?

Overall, it’s not easy to pick between London and New York. As this guide has shown, both cities are surprisingly similar, despite being so far apart and in such different parts of the world. They both excel in all the areas that people expect of a major city, from their shopping and culinary scenes to their fantastic theatrical shows and wild nightlife.

However, for the purposes of this guide, we have to pick a winner. And, if we look back over the categories listed above, London just about takes the crown. It’s more than a match for New York in areas like shopping and live entertainment, and it has the big advantage of being slightly cheaper, helping visitors on any budget see and do so much more with their time.

With that said, NYC is still one of the greatest cities in the world and thoroughly deserving of a visit. Like London, it’s a true “bucket list” destination that everyone should try to visit at least once in their lives, and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of walking along the Big Apple’s streets and looking up at those incredible skyscrapers that surround you.