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

Should you visit Sendai or London?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sendai or London, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Sendai

Sendai is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and lively city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sendai travel costs.

London

London is a iconic, global, and international city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of London is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See London travel costs.

Sendai and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sendai or London?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Sendai, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sendai is known for its beaches. London is more touristy than Sendai and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Sendai is popular for the Tanabata Festival, which is the largest of its kind and held every August.

Big Ben

How is Sendai different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in London are world-renowned. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sendai. The city grew up as a castle town, and today the castle ruins are a popular tourist destination. A park surrounds the area, Aobayama Park, and while only the stonewalls remain, you can visit the Sendai City Museum in the park as well. Zuihoden Temple is another landmark worth visiting, as is the AER observation terrace.

Is Sendai or London Better for Theater?

London is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Sendai is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in London. 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.

Sendai is not a theatre destination.

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

London is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

London has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sendai area. There are a number of local specialties in the area and if you're an adventurous eater, then this is your place. Many of the dishes are influenced by the city's proximity to the ocean. Make sure you try the harako-meshi (rice with fish eggs), sea squirts, and sashimi. Another local favorite is beef tongue.

Is Sendai or London Better for Nightlife?

London is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

London is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The people in Sendai know how to have a good time. Head to Kokubuncho for the best nightlife scene in the area. This downtown neighborhood is filled with bars, clubs, and karaoke that come alive in the evening. For live music, check out Rensa, which is one of the city's largest live music venues.

Is Sendai or London Better for Music?

London is renowned for its live music scene. However, Sendai is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in London. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Sendai is not a live music destination.

Is Sendai or London Better for Beaches?

Sendai is very good for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Sendai to enjoy the beach. There are a number of beaches in the area, but for the best options you'll want to head a bit out of town.

London is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sendai or London?

London is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, London draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sendai. You'll find shopping arcades in the downtown area like Ichibancho, which is one of the most popular shopping districts in the city. If you head out of town towards the suburbs, you'll find malls and other outlet stores.

Is Sendai or London More Beautiful?

London is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sendai is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of London is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city has quaint neighborhoods and stunning architectural landmarks that are not to be missed.

Sendai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sendai or London Better for Families?

London is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

London is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Sendai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of green spaces that kids will enjoy including parks and playgrounds. There are also kid-focused museums like the Anpanman Children's Museum and the 3M Sendai City Science Museum. If the young ones really need a break from the history, you can check out Yagiyama Beny Land.

Is Sendai or London Better for Couples?

London is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

London has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Sendai is a good city for couples to visit. The city boasts beautiful temples as well as nice natural areas, parks, and gardens. If you have time to get out of town, Okama is a volcanic lake that is one of the most beautiful spots in the region, and well worth the excursion.

Is Sendai or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, London is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Sendai is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around the town and many of the activities are free as they involve strolling through parks or wandering down shopping streets.

Is Sendai or London Better for Students?

London is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Sendai is not popular with students.

London is a great destination for students. 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.

Sendai is not popular with students.

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

London is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

London has a great public transit system. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Sendai offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are two subway lines the north-south Namboku Line and the east-west Tozai Line. These lines cross at Sendai Station.

Is Sendai or London a more walkable city?

London is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Sendai is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of the city that are walkable, especially around Sendai Station as well as in the Chuo-dori arcade and the the Kokubuncho neighborhood.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Sendai?

How long in Sendai or London?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sendai. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

London is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sendai or London?

Sendai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

London is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Sendai or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sendai. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Sendai or London?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Sendai. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

London is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, 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 Sendai and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Sendai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sendai 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 Sendai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sendai 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 Sendai.

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

Which is Bigger, Sendai or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Sendai. When comparing the sizes of Sendai 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.

When is the best time to visit Sendai or London?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Sendai or London in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sendai and London. Most visitors come to Sendai for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to London because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sendai is a little warmer than London. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sendai in July average around 23°C (73°F), and London averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Sendai usually receives less sunshine than London during summer. Sendai gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

Sendai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sendai usually receives more rain than London. Sendai gets 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sendai or London in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sendai as well as London. The autumn months attract visitors to Sendai because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to London this time of year.

In October, Sendai is generally a little warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Sendai average around 15°C (59°F), and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Sendai often gets more sunshine than London. Sendai gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 107 hours of full sun.

Sendai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sendai usually gets more rain in October than London. Sendai gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sendai or London in the Winter?

Both London and Sendai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sendai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in London. It's quite cold in Sendai in the winter. Sendai is much colder than London in the winter. The daily temperature in Sendai averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Sendai usually receives more sunshine than London during winter. Sendai gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sendai usually receives less rain than London. Sendai gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sendai or London in the Spring?

Both London and Sendai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Sendai for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to London in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Sendai is a little warmer than London. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sendai in April average around 10°C (51°F), and London averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Sendai often gets more sunshine than London. Sendai gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 147 hours of full sun.

Sendai usually gets more rain in April than London. Sendai gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for London and Sendai