A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Madrid for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Madrid can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a idyllic, peaceful, and park-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include food and theater. See Stratford-upon-Avon travel costs.

Madrid

Madrid is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Madrid travel costs.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Madrid: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Madrid. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Madrid are popular destinations, Madrid has more sights and attractions for tourists. Madrid is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Madrid is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also well known for The Prado Museum. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Madrid?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Madrid and Stratford-upon-Avon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

Madrid is very good for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for theatre. However, Madrid is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Madrid is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Madrid is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Madrid has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Nightlife?

Madrid is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Madrid has a large number of nightlife venues. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.

Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Music and theater are what make this nightlife interesting.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Music?

Madrid is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Madrid. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Madrid does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Madrid does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

Madrid is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Madrid draws large crowds to its stores. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Families?

Madrid is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Madrid is very family-friendly. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Couples?

Madrid is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Madrid makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Madrid is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Madrid. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Students?

Madrid is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Madrid. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Madrid is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Madrid can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid a more walkable city?

Madrid is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Madrid. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Madrid Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Madrid or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Madrid than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.

Families should spend more time in Madrid than Stratford-upon-Avon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Madrid, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Madrid than Stratford-upon-Avon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Madrid that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Madrid.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Each neighborhood in Madrid has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the theater, 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.

Many people visit Madrid for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Madrid, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. 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.

Each neighborhood in Madrid has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Madrid, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Madrid. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Madrid, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. And not only is Madrid much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Madrid would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Madrid 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 Stratford-upon-Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stratford-upon-Avon than you might in Madrid.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Madrid Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Madrid?

Madrid has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Madrid, 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.