London vs Paris: Helping You Choose The Best City
If you’re searching for the perfect European city to explore, both London and Paris should be near the top of your list. Choosing between the two capital cities might be harder than you think, we’ve taken a closer look to help you decide.
London Vs Paris: Is there really a champion for the best city to visit?
Whether you’re planning a family vacation or contemplating a relocation, making a choice between the historic streets of London and the romantic boulevards of Paris requires a good understanding of what each of them has to offer.
One of us is a Londoner, so we’ve been there many times, and with easy access from London to Paris, we make regular trips there as a family. So, do we consider one city to be better than the other?
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London vs Paris: Which City Is Better?
London and Paris are fantastic cities to explore, whether solo, with friends or as a family. Although they have differences, they also have many similarities.
London is a modern, cosmopolitan city with a history of almost 2000 years. It screams culture, diversity, and character day and night. London has many globally recognised iconic landmarks, from Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Tower Bridge to the financial district of Canary Wharf and its Victorian underground system.
Over the Channel, Paris flows with romantic charm, and its history dates back even further than London’s! From the iconic Eiffel Tower to world-renowned art museums like the Louvre, the city offers culinary delights, stunning architecture, and an air of elegance at every corner.
The choice between Paris vs London will ultimately depend on your personal preference and needs. Whether you choose cosmopolitan London or charming Paris, both offer plenty of opportunities for family adventure and exploration.
Which City is Better to Live in?
Paris and London each have a unique charm, culture, and contemporary vibe that draws us back time and time again. However, for relocating families, choosing between London and Paris requires considering multiple factors to ensure the whole family thrives.
London offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle that will pique the interest of families seeking new and exciting experiences. It has diverse neighbourhoods, family-friendly parks, and an extensive public transport system.
The city boasts top-notch educational institutions, a wealth of cultural activities, and a multicultural atmosphere that will help children develop a balanced view. London’s vast array of museums, theatres, and events offer a world-class cultural experience that is hard to beat.
On the other side of the English Channel, Paris emphasises quality of life and is perhaps a more intimate and relaxed family setting.
Paris is known for its picturesque parks, charming streets, and world-renowned cultural institutions. French education is highly regarded, and the city places a strong emphasis on family activities. Overall, it’s a more relaxed lifestyle where families can connect and enjoy a slower pace of life together.
Ultimately, the choice between Paris and London for families is again dependent on individual preferences. Lifestyle priorities and the type of atmosphere that resonates with your values will both be factors. Whether it’s the artistic ambience and slower pace of Paris or the fast-paced lifestyle and diverse opportunities that London offers, the choice is yours to make.
London vs Paris Key Differences
Apart from the fact that London is in England and Paris is in France, what are the major differences between two of Europe’s most iconic cities?
Cost of Living & Prices
The difference in the cost of living between London and Paris not just about the numbers. It may significantly influence your family’s financial planning and budgeting, and ultimately your decision.
When it comes to food, both London and Paris offer a rich tapestry of culinary experiences. Paris has its local markets and pocket-friendly eateries that provide authentic French cuisine. Although slightly pricier, London’s diverse food scene is a melting pot of global flavours.
While accommodation in London is generally more expensive than in Paris, both cities offer a range of affordable housing options. London’s efficient public transport system can also help offset some of the higher living costs.
Both cities offer endless family activities but at different prices. London’s attractions, such as theatres and amusement parks, often have high entry fees, although some museums are free. With its numerous public parks and various affordable, family-friendly activities, Paris may be a more budget-friendly option for families.
Weather
London, known for its temperate maritime climate, often experiences milder winters than Paris.
While both cities get chilly during the winter, London tends to have less extreme cold, potentially making it more comfortable for families with young children. However, London is known for its frequent rainfall throughout the year, so families should be prepared for damp conditions and invest in quality rain gear.
In contrast, with a more pronounced seasonal variation, Paris can have colder winters than London, occasionally accompanied by snowfall. While the city generally enjoys a mild climate, families in Paris may find the winter weather more brisk compared to the relatively temperate conditions in London.
On the plus side, Paris experiences less rainfall on average than London, making it a potentially drier and more inviting destination for families who prefer to avoid frequent wet weather.
Food
London and Paris both boast rich culinary scenes, and you’ll find a great food selection for families. However, there are also plenty of differences!
London, with its vibrant mix of cultures, offers an exciting variety of cuisines. Families can embark on a global culinary adventure without leaving the city, exploring everything from traditional British fare to exotic international dishes. However, this exciting diversity often comes with a price, as dining out in London can be more expensive when compared to Paris, especially if you are eating with kids.
Paris is a globally renowned culinary haven with a laser focus on quality and tradition. The city’s unwavering emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients contributes to the high standard of French cuisine, a heritage that families can savour and appreciate.
In any one of the hundreds of charming restaurants across Paris, families can indulge in delightful pastries, artisanal cheeses, and classic French dishes. While dining in Paris is more affordable than in London, it may be more limited regarding the variety of international cuisine. However, the emphasis on quality and the immersive cultural experience of dining in Paris make it a delightful experience for families looking to savour the essence of French cuisine.
The choice between London and Paris regarding family dining is between diverse culinary exploration, cost, and the desire for traditional, high-quality dining experiences. In our view, Paris wins this round!
Culture
London and Paris are both culturally diverse cities but there are differences, especially when it comes to family culture.
London, a city known for its multiculturalism, has a mix of ethnically diverse communities, creating a rich tapestry of traditions and perspectives. Families living in London can be immersed in a dynamic mix of global influences, from the culinary delights of various ethnic neighbourhoods to festivals that celebrate the city’s cultural diversity.
The city’s acceptance of different lifestyles creates an inclusive environment, offering families a wide range of educational and recreational opportunities that mirror London’s cosmopolitan nature.
On the other hand, while still embracing multiculturalism, Paris is often characterized by a stronger focus on its rich historical and artistic heritage. The city’s cultural fabric is interwoven with a deep appreciation for the arts, literature, and French traditions.
Families in Paris may find themselves in a more intimate community setting, with a focus on local customs and a slower pace of life. The city’s dedication to preserving its historical charm offers families a unique opportunity to experience a more traditional French way of life. It is an intriguing choice for those seeking a culturally immersive experience centred around the city’s iconic elegance and refined aesthetic.
Size & Geography
London is massive compared to Paris. With 600 square miles of parks, culture, and urban areas, the city has plenty for families to explore, discover, educate, and be entertained, promising an exciting experience.
The River Thames is a key feature in the heart of London and provides an important means of navigation through the city and 90% of its drinking water. Navigating between landmarks can be challenging, but luckily, there is an excellent transport system of buses and underground trains. If you are travelling as a family, you will likely have longer travel times and a busier atmosphere than in Paris.
On the other hand, Paris, with its compact 40 square miles, offers a more intimate and family-friendly experience. The French capital’s condensed size ensures that cultural and recreational opportunities are within easy reach, providing families with a sense of comfort and convenience.
Paris also has a large river flowing through the centre. The River Seine is busy with tourist boats night and day and is a great way to see some of the main attractions. The city is largely flat, allowing families to explore easily on foot, although there is also an efficient metro system for longer journeys.
Safety
When travelling with children, safety is paramount and it’s reassuring to know that London and Paris share a strong commitment to safety. Both have robust measures to protect against crime and we’ve always felt safe whenever we’ve been.
Overall, London’s crime rate is higher than in Paris. However, both cities have areas of high and low crime, with some areas better for families than others. That said, neither city is unsafe and millions of people visit every year without incident.
For women, safety can be a particular concern when travelling. In both London and Paris, there are dedicated efforts to address issues of harassment with well-lit public spaces and reliable public transportation. These measures, coupled with your own personal vigilance, help contribute to a safe environment for all.
London and Paris are both low-risk areas for natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes. However, occasional floods and heavy rainfall do sometimes occur.
Overall, both cities prioritize safety, and as a family, we have always felt safe in Paris and London. Common sense and vigilance are always required, wherever you are in the world.
London: Best Things To Do
Family days out in London are full of adventure, from seeing famous landmarks, interacting in museums or picnicking in a park.
✔️Tower Of London and The Thames
Head to the Tower of London to soak up some British history. Explore the castle and hear tales of kings, queens and prisoners from past centuries. Our kids were in awe of the crown jewels and the iconic Beefeaters that guard the Tower.
Take in more of London’s landmarks with a family walk along the Embankment of the River Thames. Depending on the day, you may see street performers lining the streets for added entertainment.
➡️Click Here To Book Your Tower Of London Visit
✔️Natural History and Science Museum
Enjoy a fun, free and educational day visiting two iconic London museums for families. Located next to each other in Central London, these museums encourage children to interact with exhibits, experiments and informative displays.
The Natural History Museum captivates the whole family with its brilliant displays. Life-sized dinosaur replicas share a roof with deep-sea monsters, while the earthquake simulator shakes things up! A day here helps foster a love for the natural world and our planet.
The Science Museum provides an engaging exploration of science and technology to ignite curiosity about the wonders of science. It has a huge number of interactive exhibits exploring everything from the human body to AI and flight.
Both of these museums are firm favourites for us and you could easily spend a day or more in each. Allow at least 2 hours to get some appreciation of what’s on offer.
✔️Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Harry Potter captures the imagination of most children at some point. This studio tour is educational, great fun and truly magical.
Located in Watford, just outside London, a family day trip will allow you to experience the actual sets used in the film. Visit the Great Hall at Hogwarts and Diagon Alley and get your Hogwarts Passport stamped on the way round.
Gain an insight into the making of the Harry Potter movies. Fly on a broomstick, test your skills in Ollivanders Wand Shop and order a Butterbeer at the bar. Children and adults will all enjoy the unique magic, Harry Potter style.
Paris: Best Things To Do
Venture onto the streets of Paris to see its iconic landmarks, city parks and cultural treasures. You can turn the day into a fun adventure for the whole family.
✔️Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise
A family trip to Paris must include a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Take in the panoramic views of the city from the Tower’s viewing platform, accessed by elevator or stairs. Our kids loved the perspex floor although I’m not sure we loved watching them jump on it!
Take in more landmarks of Paris, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and Musée d’Orsay, on a family-friendly Seine River cruise. If your kids will tolerate it, a night cruise gives a different perspective of the city illuminated.
➡️Click Here To Book your Eiffel Tower and River Cruise
✔️Explore the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens
A family visit to the Louvre Museum in Paris makes for a great day out. The vast museum contains many art pieces, including Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa.
Children can enter the museum for free, and the whole family can enjoy free access to the nearby Tuileries Gardens . If the weather is good, have a family picnic and play in the park afterwards.
When visiting a museum with kids, be realistic about how long you should stay to avoid them getting bored. Prioritise what you see and take advantage of child-friendly guided tours, storytelling sessions, and activity sheets.
✔️Disneyland Paris
A day trip to Disneyland Paris is a magical thing to do with your kids.
In under an hour, you can travel from the Eiffel Tower to Disneyland Paris. Then, you’ll be set for a day of attractions, parades, Disney characters, light shows, and fireworks.
Disneyland Paris is well worth a visit for families of all ages.
FAQs: London or Paris
There may be tough competition in deciding which city is best for your family, between Paris and London. Here are a few common questions to help you further:
Is Paris or London cooler?
Determining which city, Paris or London, is cooler is subjective and depends on personal preferences. Paris may exude a romantic charm with its iconic architecture and intimate ambience, while London offers a dynamic cosmopolitan vibe with its diverse cultural scene and bustling streets.
Does London get more tourists than Paris?
Both London and Paris are esteemed global tourist destinations, with visitor numbers fluctuating annually. Historically, Paris has often outshone London in attracting tourists thanks to its magnetic reputation as a hub for art, culture, and romance. This allure, however, is not set in stone, as the actual figures can be swayed by a myriad of factors such as events, economic conditions, and global circumstances.
What is the biggest difference between London and Paris?
The most prominent distinction between London and Paris lies in their cultural atmospheres and pace of life. London, as a bustling global metropolis, embodies a dynamic, fast-paced lifestyle with its diverse population and thriving business scene. In contrast, Paris radiates a more leisurely and romantic ambience, focusing on artistic expression, culinary delights, and a nuanced appreciation for the finer aspects of life.
Can you do a day trip from Paris to London?
A day trip between Paris and London is absolutely possible. You can take the Eurostar directly from Paris to St Pancras, London and there are multiple flights daily. These are the easiest options for day trips between the two capitals. The Eurostar takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes whereas flights take 1 hour 20 minutes. Remember to factor in up to an additional 60 minutes by train from the airport.
Final Thoughts: Paris Vs London
Deciding between London and Paris is about much more than just the location. It will depend on your family’s preferences and needs.
While London rides the financial market, offers a rich history, and has a fast-paced lifestyle, Paris, on the other hand, has charm, culture, and a greater focus on quality of life. Both other fantastic opportunities for family fun and adventure.
As they are close together, the perfect solution is to visit both in one trip either by Ferry, road or Eurostar which only takes 2 hours. Whichever you choose, you won’t be disappointed, and they both remain top destinations for us at Trekking The Dream!
