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

Should you visit Taupo or London?

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

Should I visit Taupo or London? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Taupo

Taupo is a otherworldly, striking, and stunning town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Taupo travel costs.

London

London is a historic, diverse, and iconic 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. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See London travel costs.

Taupo and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Taupo or London?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London. Although Taupo and London are both popular with visitors, London has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. London is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Taupo is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. London is more touristy than Taupo and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Taupo is popular for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes.

Big Ben

How is Taupo different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Taupo or London Better for Skiing?

Taupo is terrific for skiing. However, London is not a skiing destination.

Taupo is among the world's best ski destinations. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

London is not a skiing destination.

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

London is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in London are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

Is Taupo or London Better for Theater?

London is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Taupo is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in London draw crowds from around the world. 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.

Taupo is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Taupo and London offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Taupo. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

London has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Taupo or London Better for Nightlife?

London is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

London is a world class party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Taupo or London Better for Music?

London is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Taupo is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in London Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Taupo is not a live music destination.

Is Taupo or London Better for Hiking?

Taupo is a great town for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Taupo for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taupo or London?

London is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in London make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Taupo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Taupo or London More Beautiful?

London is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Is Taupo or London Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Taupo or London.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Taupo is a very family-friendly destination. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

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.

Is Taupo or London Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Taupo and London make for a world-class place to visit.

Taupo makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water 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.

Is Taupo or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo and London are world-class places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Taupo. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

A large number of backpackers visit London, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. 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.

Is Taupo or London Better for Students?

London is a must-visit destination for students. However, Taupo is not popular with students.

Many students frequent 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.

Taupo is not popular with students.

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

London is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

London has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

While Taupo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Is Taupo or London a more walkable city?

London is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Taupo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Taupo?

How long in Taupo or London?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Taupo. 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.

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Taupo or London?

Taupo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the skiing, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Taupo or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taupo. Don't miss the skiing, 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 fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Taupo or London?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Taupo. 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.

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, 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 Taupo and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Taupo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Taupo is in Pacific 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 Taupo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Taupo 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 Taupo.

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

Which is Bigger, Taupo or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Taupo 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.