London and New York are two of the most recognizable cities in the world. One is known for its royal charm while the other is a city that symbolizes modernity. You can’t go wrong with these two cities as they’re both major players on the global stage.
The glitz and glamor of these cities can’t be denied because they’re frequented by celebrities. But both places are also providing opportunities for the working class. London and New York are great destinations for adventurous tourists and entrepreneurs.
London has maintained its status as the home city of England’s royal family. With sights and structures from bygone eras, London reminds people of its very rich history. While keeping the traditions alive, London is open to other cultures thus its diverse surroundings.
New York is no stranger to multicultural influences as well and it’s evident if you take a look around. The capital city of the United States is on the frontlines of progress, freedom, and resilience. Though there are tragic chapters in its history, New York was able to rise from the rubble.
Countless stories have been backdropped by the busy streets of London and New York. From fictional tales to real-life events, the two cities are embedded into the world’s consciousness. Their spectacular attractions will never fail to capture the imagination of millions.
The number of wide-eyed tourists continues to grow with each passing decade. So if you’re looking for amazing cities in England or the US, London and New York will happily welcome you. These cities’ mesmerizing, postcard-worthy spots can add more life to your vacation and make it memorable.
London
London is a city that went through a lot since its foundation back in 47 AD. It is one of the most recognizable places in Europe because of its rich history. Different rulers left their marks by spearheading the construction of eye-catching structures.
From The Tower Bridge to The Shard, London is decorated with amazing sights. The city is one of the top tourist destinations in the UK and rightfully so. Because it never ceases to give tourists a sense of wonder.
When you hear the name London, pictures of kings, queens, palaces, and double-decker buses instantly come to mind. London is one of those cities that can seamlessly blend old things with new ones. Its historically significant places are being preserved without failing to embrace modern innovations.
Albeit a populated and busy city, a weekend in London can still give you that blissful feeling. London is an elegant and exciting place to visit indeed. Let this shining gem in England comfort you with its unforgettable tourist attractions.
What Makes London Unique
Tower Bridge
The Tower Bridge is a suspension bridge that crosses the River Thames. Built between 1886 to 1894, it’s a very distinct-looking bridge because of its neo-Gothic design. There are two 213 feet (65 m) towers (North and South) that proudly stand above the 800 feet (240 m) bridge.
As one of the five bridges in London, Tower Bridge’s design is such a visual treat for tourists. A walkway connects the upper levels of the North and South towers and there’s a pair of bascules below. Bascules are adjustable/movable bridges that allow ships to pass through.
The Tower Bridge is open to people who want to get a better view of the river and the sights surrounding it. Discover some cool and interesting facts by booking a guided tour. Guided tours allow curious visitors to visit the bridge’s control room and look at how the bridge operates.
The tour begins by climbing the North Tower. There’s a lift that will take you to the upper level. Crossing the walkway with a glass floor lets you see what’s underneath as you make your way to the South Tower. Your visit might even coincide with the lifting of the bascules powered by an electro-hydraulic system.
A blue line commemorates the workers of Tower Bridge and, after that, you’ll enter the Victorian engine room. You can finish the tour by buying cute and kick-ass souvenirs from their gift shop. Don’t miss this chance to visit one of London’s best and most iconic landmarks. Tours usually start at 10:30 am.
The ticket for a guided tour costs 7 to 14 USD. There are discounts for the tickets of senior and disabled visitors. Children below 5 years old and a single companion of a disabled person can enter the towers for free.
The Shard
Just a mile away from Tower Bridge, you’ll see a tall and pointed building. The Shard or Shard of Glass is a 72-story, 1,016-high skyscraper (309.6 m) in Southwark, London. Designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano, The Shard is the tallest building in the UK.
Its construction began in 2009 and was completed in 2012. This structure is one of the most distinctive and impressive structures in 21st-century London. The Shard is a perfect example of London’s willingness to embrace some modern elements and ideas.
The reflective appearance of the building is because of its large glass windows. It’s even more beautiful when nighttime arrives. The lights that come from it and the lights from other buildings that bounce around bring out the beauty.
You’ll see the shard in a lot of cityscape shots of London. Inside The Shard’s premises, you’ll find office spaces, hotel/residential rooms, and restaurants. Except for its private spaces, most of the building is open to visitors who want to see a great view of London.
The highest level of the building was opened to the public in 2013. Its open-air observation deck and viewing gallery let people gaze at London from a higher viewpoint. Tourists need to buy timed tickets to enjoy the best things about The Shard.
Buy your tickets in advance and make yourself feel like you’re at the top of the world. The Shard’s viewing deck is open from 10 am to 10 pm during the summer season. But it closes at 8 pm from Wednesday to Sunday in winter.
London Dungeon
If you are fascinated by the macabre, London’s very own version of House of Horrors is a place for you. This tourist attraction recreates gruesome historical and fictional events in different ways. It started as a wax gallery in 1974 but more effects and personnel were added as the years went on.
From Mary Tudor to Sweeney Todd and Jack the Ripper, infamous characters and chilling scenes are depicted here. The London Dungeon includes 20 actors, 19 shows, and 2 rides in their scary presentations. Fans of spooky stuff will surely have a blast in The London Dungeon.
Visiting this place can make your London vacation a very thrilling one. Horror aficionados and casual tourists who are looking for a unique way to have fun are welcome to visit. Due to the graphic nature of the presentations, a tour might be too much for the squeamish but it’s still worth trying.
Feed your morbid curiosity with intriguing and sinister stories from the past. Let the horror fan in you indulge. The London Dungeon is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day except for Christmas Day. Drink some water, take a deep breath and prepare for a spooky tour inside its premises.
A standard ticket’s price is 35 USD while a flexible ticket costs 46 USD. You’re going to need 42 to 66 USD if you want to include a drink at the tavern or a London Eye ride to the tour. Come to the London Dungeon and have a little bit of scary but safe kind of fun even if it’s not Halloween.
Hampstead Heath
Just a few miles away from Central London, you’re going to find Hampstead Heath. Hampstead Heath is a gorgeous public park adorned by woodland and meadows. After an exhilarating trip within the city, the park gives tourists a space for relaxation.
You can recharge and breathe some fresh air while sitting or standing in its grassy hills. Hampstead Heath overlooks the city of London, so its location makes it a perfect spot for cityscape photos. Touring the busy streets of London is a fun experience, and it’s very refreshing to be surrounded by nature.
Another heartwarming thing about the park is its efforts to preserve wildlife. You can visit different animals in the conservatory where they’re being kept safe and healthy. There are volunteering activities that allow people to help in keeping Hampstead Heath clean and pretty.
The grass and trees inside this park help you take a cool break while you’re in London. This piece of paradise is a very comforting zone for exhausted residents and tourists. Escape the buzz of the city for a little while and just chill with nature.
During summer, you can watch concerts on its lakeside or swim and cool yourself down in open-air public ponds. There are cafes and restaurants around the park if you want a relaxing dining experience. You can also buy some cool Hampstead Heath–related items from the gift shop.
The park is open 24/7, and you can easily enter since its general area is not surrounded by gates or fences. But you’re going to need a ticket and visit at specific times to enjoy other activities like swimming. If you just want a stroll around the park, the green surroundings of Hampstead Heath will welcome you.
New York
The Big Apple and The City That Never Sleeps are nicknames that stand out. New York City is a name and symbol that you’ll see almost everywhere. From stickers and shirts to baseball caps, this city’s iconic status is just undeniable.
Founded in the 1600s as a Dutch settlement, New York is now a symbol of the American dream. The skyscrapers that adorn the city are constant reminders of the United States’ amazing progress. New York City is a common backdrop for books, films, and popular songs.
Creative minds didn’t fail to vividly describe the city and pay homage to its unbelievable beauty. Because of that, countless tourists are making their way to see it for themselves. New York is a city that provides opportunities to people from different states and countries.
The hardworking immigrants in the city have made a lot of contributions to its growth. As a result, traditions from different parts of the globe are now incorporated into the city’s culture. This colorful melting pot on the east coast is a very fertile ground for tourism and trade.
With a population of 8.4 million, New York is home to people from all walks of life. You’re not going to feel out of place in this vibrant cosmopolitan city. The bright city lights will surround you to make you feel some warmth and comfort.
Even though it went through some dark chapters, the city’s determination to stand up was never a secret. Come and visit this tourist-friendly place to get a better perspective on why it’s so well-known. As one of the strongest pillars of American society, New York continues to inspire locals and tourists.
What Makes New York Unique
Central Park
Opened in 1858, Central Park is the most visited park in the United States. This 843-acre (341 ha) urban park is in between the northeast and northwest sides of Manhattan. With 42 million annual visitors, something about it is keeping people interested.
Central Park is a common filming location for scenes that need to use a park as a backdrop. This place can provide awesome scenic views because the grass and trees in it are perfectly contrasted with the towering buildings outside.
The lakes, fountains, and forests provide a relaxing space for New Yorkers and tourists as well. Aside from its natural beauty, New York’s Central Park is a great venue for different activities or interests. Foodies can have a nice picnic inside while the active ones can run and ride bikes.
The park is a very neat spot for all the yoga enthusiasts out there. Tours around its forests and zoo are also fun ways to unwind. There’s a playground where children play games and create their adventures.
You’ll also spot photographers and buskers who are letting their passion run through their veins. Central Park is a reflection of New York City itself because of its diversity. The park is open from 6 am to 1 am, so please drop by while you’re in the city.
This is where you can mingle with people and create fun memories. No need to worry about an entrance fee because everyone is welcome to roam the park. Some areas might require a ticket, but don’t hesitate to ask around because most people there are approachable.
Pizza Places
Looking for a mouthwatering slice? NYC’s more than ready to satisfy your pizza craving. With 1,600 pizzerias/ pizza places to choose from, the options are almost endless. This world-famous pie from Italy has made its way to New York City.
Italian immigrants brought its tasty recipe to US soil and made it popular. So popular and customizable that the city has created its unique spin on it. The New York–style pizza is known for its thick crust, wide slices, and of course its delicious taste.
Walk around New York and you’re going to spot a pizza place on almost every corner. Di Fara Pizza, Lucali, Ben’s Pizza, and Razza are just some of them as they’re too many to name. Feel free to walk around and try a pizza place that suits your taste.
Pizza is pretty synonymous with the city so you’re not going to have a hard time finding a delicious slice. Vegan options are also available if you don’t eat meat. Treat yourself and a companion with a few warm and irresistible slices while you’re in New York.
Statue of Liberty
New York is instantly recognizable because of the Statue of Liberty. Lady Liberty’s triumphant pose goes hand in hand with the city’s unbelievable progress. You’ve probably seen the image of this statue more times than you can remember.
The experience of seeing it up close is going to increase your level of amazement. Designed by the French artist Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the Statue of Liberty is his magnum opus. Gustave Eiffel (of Paris, France’s Eiffel Tower fame) was in charge of building its metal framework.
This massive and iconic sculpture’s official name is Liberty Enlightening the World. With its 305 feet (93 m) height, the statue’s presence in the New York Harbor is striking. The Statue of Liberty is accessible to the public that’s why there’s a steady flow of excited tourists.
If you’re taking a break in New York, don’t forget to visit the city’s most famous spot. You’re free to explore the base. But to access Liberty’s crown, you have to buy a ticket. For the price of 12 to 24 USD, you can take 162 steps and enter the statue’s majestic crown.
Look through the spaces to get a good view of the city and the Northern Atlantic. The said tour is exclusive to Statue Cruises.
When tickets are hard to come by, don’t worry because the view from below is pretty great, too, and it’s free. It’s safe to say that a New York vacation wouldn’t be complete without saying hi to Lady Liberty. Her crown and torch will continue to remind everyone of how great the city of New York is.
There’s a tablet in her right hand that bears the date of independence. It’s a celebration of freedom. New York’s multicultural setting goes well with what the statue symbolizes. There are hundreds of replicas around the world but seeing the original is something else.
If you’re going to have a vacation in NYC, give the Statue of Liberty a visit. So you can add it to your gallery of memorable and fun-filled adventures. No matter where you are coming from, the city will always welcome you with open arms.
Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden or MSG is a well-known multipurpose arena in New York City. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this structure has held countless events since its opening in 1968. It’s a perfect venue for sports and entertainment.
Famous athletes and artists consider their time in MSG as highlights of their illustrious careers. MSG is the home of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers. Aside from basketball and hockey, the arena is also known for hosting boxing and wrestling matches.
The biggest names in the music industry have included ‘the garden’ in their tours. Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and a long list of artists have performed here. Sports and music fans would gather to watch amazing matches and performances.
If you bought a game or concert ticket, you’re going to be surprised by everything and everyone. Seeing the stars do their thing is already breathtaking, but the New York audience is also special. You can see, hear and feel how passionate they are because of how they react in every game or song.
What if there are no games or concerts in MSG during your stay in New York? No need to fret because you can still take a very special tour within its halls. A 60-minute guided tour allows you to see the garden’s rich history and inner workings.
You can see the iconic MSG moments of athletes and singers in the photos that hang on the walls. The tour also includes a VR simulation of this venue’s most notable scenes. The VR experience will make you feel like you’re watching history unfold before your eyes.
The venue is open for guided tours from 10:30 am to 3 pm. Tours are allowed on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. The price of a guided tour ticket is 37 USD for adults and 32 USD for children, students, and seniors.
Come to Madison Square Garden to make your vacation a little bit more fun. Games, concerts, and tours allow you to interact with other fans and tourists. With each event and interaction, you are going to understand why this venue is so important to New York.
Is London Better Than New York?
London and New York are both amazing cosmopolitan cities. The two are popular tourist destinations for multiple reasons. Being an older city, London has a long history with well-preserved structures and spaces.
New York’s surroundings are more contemporary and it’s the epitome of a modern American city. London manages to take a balanced approach to both traditional and modern ways of living. It’s also a cheaper destination than the Big Apple.
The British Pound might have a slightly higher value than the US Dollar. But the US Dollar is still the stronger currency because it’s being used on a wider scale. London and New York are very prosperous cities, and your spending capability can affect which city you’ll choose.
Both London and New York are tourist-friendly cities. You’re going to enjoy your stay in either of them. If you’re looking for a lively city in the US, New York is going to take care of you. But if you want an old-fashioned city for a cheaper vacation, London is the obvious winner.
With a smaller population than New York, the city of London is not as congested. It’s easier to find your way around London, but don’t let that stop you from visiting New York. There’s no bad choice between them.
You can pick one over the other or you can pick both since the decision is still up to you. But due to several factors, London’s just a little bit better. If you can visit both cities, don’t hesitate to explore because you won’t regret it.
The two of them can offer unique and memorable experiences to every tourist. New York is an undeniably modern and diverse city. So it gets a higher score from people who prefer cities that completely follow a contemporary setting.
Most tourists are looking for cheaper and less congested destinations for their getaway. Though it’s a very close and interesting battle, a London vacation gets the win. London has wider green spaces, lower expenses, and attractions with a longer, richer history.
FAQ
Is London Safer Than New York?
The attractions in London and New York are safe and tourist-friendly. Both cities are improving when it comes to safety. If you avoid the seedier parts of these places, you’re going to be fine.
London Crime Rate vs. New York Crime Rate
Based on the comparison made by Numbeo as of December 2022, London has a 4% higher crime rate than New York. Compared to New York’s 49.20, London’s crime index is about 53.80. New York’s score on the safety scale is 50.80 while the city of London gets 46.20.
New York is a slightly safer city than London but don’t let the stats scare you. Law enforcement sectors are doing everything in their power to keep everyone safe. The increased presence/visibility of police officers in both cities can help in preventing crimes.
Air Quality in New York vs. London
Air quality in London and New York is almost the same even though London has wider green spaces. Their difference in air quality is not that big, so it’s barely noticeable. New York has more modern buildings than London, but NYC is trying to decrease its carbon emissions.
Despite London’s efforts to do the same, it’s still a slightly more polluted city than New York. New York’s air quality is moderate while the air quality in London is low to moderate. The common sources of air pollutants in both cities are diesel-powered vehicles and heating systems.
Is London More Expensive Than New York?
London’s currency has a higher nominal value than New York’s, but London is a cheaper destination. New York is 16 to 30 percent more expensive because of its well-developed facilities and rapid economic growth. You can expect pricier goods and services if you’re spending some time off in New York.
New York vs. London Weather
London’s weather is milder compared to New York. Depending on the season, New York’s weather can change dramatically. In London, the weather is more consistent with minimal to average fluctuations in temperature as seasons change.
Is London Colder Than New York?
Because of London’s mild climate, it is a colder city than New York. London’s average temperature is 53.91°F (12.17°C) while New York’s average is 55.89°F (13.27°C). During winter, London’s temperature goes down to 41°F (5°C).
A New York winter can reach 35.6°F (2°C) to below zero with heavy snowfall. London’s maximum summer temperature is 73°F (23°C). New York’s temperature shoots up to 86°F (30°C) during the hottest hours of a summer day. Except for winter, London is a colder city than New York throughout the year.
Why Is New York Colder Than London?
New York is only colder than London during winter. Its geographical location makes the formation of snow possible. This coastal city in North America cools down during winter and gets hot in the summer.
The temperature drop that starts in December leads to regular snowfall. Except for that season, London is usually a colder city than New York. London’s summer temperature is a few degrees lower than New York’s.
Nightlife in London vs. New York
New York is called the city that never sleeps because of its continuous activity. Nightlife in New York is so vibrant, you’ll notice the frequent appearance of partygoers. Bars and clubs are open until the wee hours.
London’s nightlife is pretty decent and enjoyable, although it’s a more laid-back place at night than New York. New York is known for being a busy and fast-paced kind of city. You’re going to have fun nights in both cities but New York has a livelier nightlife.
Soho in London vs. New York
There are areas in London and New York called Soho. Located in the West End of London, Soho used to be an exclusive district for the upper class. Nowadays, Soho is a very active venue for arts and entertainment.
The other Soho, usually spelled as SoHo is a neighborhood in Lower Manhattan, New York. Its name is an abbreviation of South of Houston Street. This part of New York is known for its old beautiful buildings and coffee shops.
Aside from sharing the same name, the two Sohos are tourist-friendly places. SoHo in NYC is primarily a residential area that allows curious visitors to relax. Soho in London is a recreational space with restaurants, cinemas, and music-related events.
Hyde Park in London vs. Central Park in New York
Hyde Park and Central Park are two famous public parks. The two are equally beautiful and good spots for fun activities and relaxation.
Central Park in New York is two times bigger than London’s Hyde Park.
Hyde Park is popular with tourists because of its natural beauty. Central Park on the other hand is regularly visited for its urban setting and different activities inside.
Both parks are nice but there are more things to do in Central Park.
Natural History Museum in London vs. New York
The American Museum of Natural History is just across Central Park, New York. It includes 34 million specimens in its collection. Inside there are plants, minerals, human and animal remains from ancient times, and other cultural artifacts.
The museum’s 2 million square feet (190,000 m²) area can accommodate huge displays. There’s a library where you can access a huge collection of books. Tourists, students, and experts go there for educational trips, research, and recreation.
The Natural History Museum in London contains a vast collection of artifacts. It’s a smaller museum but it’s also a very informative place and admission is free. The two are serving the same purpose, but you need to pay 14 to 25 USD to enter the NY museum’s premises.
Latitude for London vs. New York
London’s latitude is 51.5072° N with a 0.1276° W longitude. New York City’s coordinates are 40.7128° N latitude, and 74.0060° W longitude. Latitude and longitude are used to tell a place’s coordinates and distance from the equator.
New York to London Distance
London and New York are 3,459 miles (5,711.5 km) away from each other. One is in the Northwestern part of Europe while the other is in North America. The Northern Atlantic Ocean is in the middle of the countries/continents they’re in.
Is New York Bigger Than London?
London is a bigger city than New York. London covers an area of 606 square miles (1,569 km²) while New York has a size of 301 square miles (779 km²). That makes London two times bigger than New York.
London vs. New York Population
London has a population of 9.5 million people. New York has a population of 20.4 million and it’s the most populated city in the US. As a global hub for business and commerce, many people in New York are part of the workforce.
Population Density of London vs. New York
London’s population density is 14,500 per square mile. New York has 27,013 people per square mile population density. Despite being a smaller city than London, New York has a higher population.
Time in London vs. New York
There’s a 5-hour difference between the time in London and the time in New York City. London’s time is 5 hours ahead of New York so if it’s 3 am in New York, it’s already 8 am in London. If you’re going to London and New York and vice versa, you need to adjust the time on your watch/phone.
New York to London Flight Distance
The flight distance between London and New York is 3,471 miles (5,586 km). Most airlines offer direct flights between the two cities. Planes would take off from New York, fly above the Atlantic Ocean, and land at one of London’s airports.
New York to London Flight Time
The average flight duration from New York to London is 7 hours and 30 minutes. Some faster flights from New York only take 6 hours and 40 minutes to reach London. Weather conditions and a plane’s capacity can affect the duration of a flight.
Concorde From London to New York
There were commercial Concorde flights from London to New York. Airlines don’t offer Concorde trips anymore because they’re loud and expensive to operate. The Concorde was first used in the 1960s, and this tailless, supersonic aircraft was retired in 2003.
Concorde Flight Time From New York to London
The average Concorde flight from New York to London takes 3 hours. And the fastest recorded flight between the cities happened in 1996, which only took 2 hours and 52 minutes. Concorde flights are two times faster than regular commercial flights.
Concorde Price From London to New York
Concorde tickets from London to New York were expensive. A single trip used to cost 7,574 USD. Concordes used to cover the distance between these two cities in a short time. But these were also infamous for their loud noise that made passengers uncomfortable.
Private Jet Price From London to New York
Several airlines offer luxurious private jet rides from London to New York. A trip takes 6 to 7 hours, and prices can range from 51,900 to 98,600 USD depending on the aircraft. You can board a super-midsize jet, a heavy jet, or an ultra-long-range jet.
Can a Helicopter Fly From New York to London?
New York and London are 3,459 miles (5,711.5 km) apart. Even military helicopters can only fly up to 1,200 miles (1,931 km) on a single tank before refueling. With a few stops, it’s possible to cross the Atlantic by helicopter but it’s not advised.
A helicopter is expensive to operate and it’s not particularly designed to travel very long distances. Helicopters are slower than commercial planes. Planes have a better aerodynamic structure with more powerful engines.
New York to London by Ship
There are 34 to 36 available departures from different cruise lines that sail from New York to London. A cruise trip’s average cost is 1,300 USD, which excludes the cost of getting a suite.
One trip takes 6 to 7 days and the most popular months for cruising are April, June, August, and September.
How Long Is a Cruise From New York to London?
A cruise trip from New York to London takes 6 to 7 days. Some trips do take longer because cruise ships also need to adjust to sea/weather conditions. Delays may occur in some trips to ensure the safety of the ship and its passengers.
New York to London by Ship Cost
The average cost of a cruise trip from New York to London is 1,300 USD. For a week-long trip, you’re going to need a suite where you can rest while sailing the Atlantic. Suite prices can range from 5,000 to 15,000 USD.
New York to London Distance by Sea
New York is 3,459 miles (5,711.5 km) away from London but the straight line distance between them is 1,071 miles (1,724 km). By sea, they are 3,150 nautical miles (3,625 mi or 5,833 km) apart. A ship from New York usually takes a week-long journey to get to London.
New York Subway vs. London Underground
The New York Subway has more routes and stations than the London Underground or London Tube. When roads in New York are congested, using the subway is a convenient alternative. Roads in London can be congested too, so the tube is also great to get around the city.
Most things in New York are pricier. But using the subway in New York is cheaper than a London Underground ride. New York Subway has four tracks in its routes, while London Underground’s routes only have two.
