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

Should you visit Yogyakarta or London?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a youthful, cultural, and historical city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Yogyakarta 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. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See London travel costs.

Yogyakarta and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or London?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Yogyakarta, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Yogyakarta is known for its historical sights. London is more touristy than Yogyakarta and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Yogyakarta is popular for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows.

Big Ben

How is Yogyakarta different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Yogyakarta and London.

The museums and tourist attractions in Yogyakarta are world-renowned. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put London on the map. 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.

Is Yogyakarta or London Better for Theater?

London is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Yogyakarta and London.

Yogyakarta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

Dining out in London is an experience not to be missed. 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 Yogyakarta or London Better for Nightlife?

London is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

Is Yogyakarta or London Better for Music?

London is renowned for its live music scene. However, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is not a live music destination.

Is Yogyakarta or London Better for its Old Town?

Yogyakarta is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Yogyakarta. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or London?

Shoppers can find a variety of world-class stores in both Yogyakarta and London.

Known for shopping, Yogyakarta draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

London is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Is Yogyakarta or London More Beautiful?

London is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yogyakarta or London Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, London is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yogyakarta. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

Is Yogyakarta or London Better for Couples?

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

London makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Yogyakarta is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

Is Yogyakarta or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Is Yogyakarta or London Better for Students?

London is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Yogyakarta is popular with students. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Is Yogyakarta 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. However, Yogyakarta is lacking in good options 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

Is Yogyakarta or London a more walkable city?

London is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or London?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Yogyakarta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or London?

Yogyakarta 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.

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Yogyakarta or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yogyakarta. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Yogyakarta or London?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the youthful destination of Yogyakarta. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

London is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia, 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 Yogyakarta and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Yogyakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yogyakarta 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 Yogyakarta.

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

Which is Bigger, Yogyakarta or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Yogyakarta. When comparing the sizes of Yogyakarta 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.