A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sapa vs. London for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sapa or London?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Sapa and London can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sapa

Sapa is a fascinating, picturesque, and cultural town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Sapa because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Sapa travel costs.

London

London is a diverse, iconic, and global city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. London is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See London travel costs.

Sapa and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sapa or London?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Sapa. London is bigger than Sapa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Sapa is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. London is more touristy than Sapa and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Sapa is well known for its stunning village and mountain trekking, beautiful rice paddies, and colorful weekly markets.

Big Ben

How is Sapa different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Sapa is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Sapa offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While the many nearby villages are filled with markets and culture and have the feel of living museums, there are few actual museums in the area.

Is Sapa or London Better for Theater?

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

The theater scene in London is world-class. 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.

Sapa is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Sapa and London both to be very good destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sapa. The area's food highlights the local agricultural scene with lots of meat, fish, and vegetables. If you want to check out traditional Hmong cuisine, Thang Co is one of the most common dishes. It's a soup that has a strong smell and is prepared with local herbs and meats.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit London. 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 Sapa or London Better for Nightlife?

London is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Sapa is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sapa. While you don't visit the area for its nightlife, there's a big backpacker scene here so you'll likely find a crowd looking for a good time. The town has a night market and there are plenty of bars that cater to the tourists.

Is Sapa or London Better for Music?

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

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Sapa is not a live music destination.

Is Sapa or London Better for Hiking?

Sapa is terrific for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Sapa specifically for its hiking. Trekking is, by far, one of the best ways to experience the area's beauty. You'll pass by scenic rice paddies, walk along mist covered mountains, and stumble into fascinating villages. Many people hire a local guide to guide them. This helps the local economy and offers insider information.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sapa or London?

London is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Sapa is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in London. 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.

Sapa is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many villages have a weekly market that is very fascinating to explore. In addition to local food items, there are often locally made handicrafts that make great souvenirs from your travels.

Is Sapa or London More Beautiful?

Sapa is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sapa because of it's amazing beauty. The region is filled with dramatic mountains and rice paddies that give it a truly Vietnamese beauty.

London is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city has quaint neighborhoods and stunning architectural landmarks that are not to be missed.

Is Sapa or London Better for Families?

London is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sapa is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Sapa is a very kid-friendly town. Many people arrive via an overnight train, which is an adventure for the whole family. Once you arrive, your kids will experience a local culture that is uniquely its own. You can participate in a homestay and enjoy meals prepared by a local family. There are also many kid-friendly hikes through the surrounding mountains.

Is Sapa or London Better for Couples?

London is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Sapa is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, London has plenty to offer. 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.

Sapa is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy experiencing unique cultures and hiking through stunning mountain settings will love a trip to this mountain town. While the tourists have definitely discovered the area, there are still places that have a local vibe with traditional Vietnamese markets and homesteads.

Is Sapa or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sapa is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent London. 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.

Sapa is a great town to visit for backpackers. Like much of Southeast Asia, this town and the surrounding areas are solidly on the backpacker trail. You'll find cheap places to stay and tours that cater specifically to the budget and backpacker crowd.

Is Sapa or London Better for Students?

London is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Sapa is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Sapa is not popular with students.

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

London is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sapa is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

Sapa has a few public transit options. There are public buses through the region. If you're hoping to visit nearby towns for their market days, an organized tour or private guide is a good option.

Is Sapa or London a more walkable city?

London is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Sapa is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

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

Sapa is a very walkable town. Trekking is, by far, the best way to experience the area and all of the beauty and culture that it has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Sapa?

How long in Sapa or London?

Both Sapa 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 Sapa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Sapa, and 3-7 days is enough time in London.

Families should spend more time in London than Sapa. 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 Sapa. 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 Sapa 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 Sapa or London?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sapa. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Sapa or London?

Sapa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, 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 Sapa or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sapa. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 iconic 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 Sapa or London?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque destination of Sapa. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

London is a iconic 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 Coach Bus Tours in Vietnam, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sapa and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Sapa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sapa is in Asia and London is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Sapa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sapa 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 Sapa.

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

Which is Bigger, Sapa or London?

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