berlin vs london travel

Berlin Vs. London: Best European Capitals

Can’t decide between Berlin and London? This detailed comparison of the two European capitals should help you make up your mind!

I’ve compared everything from the quality of life to famous landmarks, to help you decide which city is the better option for you. Read on to learn more about the similarities and differences between the two European cities and see whether Berlin or London should be next on your list!

Answer: It Depends

If you’re considering moving permanently and you’re willing to learn German, Berlin is the better option. It offers a higher quality of life, alongside cheaper rent and living necessities than are to be found in London.

But, if you’re just thinking of traveling and you want to explore a beautiful city with countless bucket-list landmarks, it’s London all the way. It’s about twice the size of Berlin, and it has many more fascinating sights for visitors!

The Key Differences

One of the key differences between Berlin and London is the size. London is about twice the size of Berlin in the area but it has three times as many people living in it. There are about 9 million people in London, compared to a little over 3 million in Berlin. The population density is also much lower in Berlin, and you’ll generally encounter fewer people when you go out.

What this means in practice is that Berlin is a lot less crowded than London. There’s less traffic, there are fewer people on the streets, and it’s much easier to go out to a restaurant without making any reservations in advance.

Another key difference between the two cities is the language. German is the official language in Berlin, and you might have a tough time exploring the city if you don’t understand it all. On the other hand, at least the people in Berlin drive on the right side of the road.

It will likely take a while to get used to the London traffic that’s always going in the wrong direction if you’re from the EU or the US, but hey – it’s still easier than learning German.

One thing people might find weird about Berlin is how hard it is to buy anything on a Sunday. Most shops close, and this includes all grocery stores, fashion stores, and supermarkets. The only things that are open are museums, restaurants, and transportation centers. This isn’t the case with London, so if you don’t like shopping ahead, you might find this challenging in Berlin.

There’s also the subject of weather. It’s no secret that it rains a lot in the UK, but did you know that it also rains quite a lot in Germany? Berlin is not as bad as London, but it still gets more than a week of rain every month on average. The weather in London is usually mild – it’s warm in the summers but it’s not too warm, just like it’s cold in the winters but it’s rarely freezing cold.

Berlin is the total opposite. Sure it has mild weather in the spring and fall, but the summers are hot and the winters are freezing cold. If you prefer milder weather and you can deal with the rain, London is easily the better option.

Culture & Highlights

Berlin highlights include a lot of buildings and landmarks from WWII and the Cold War. The city has an incredibly rich history – we are talking about the capital of Germany, after all. It’s a fascinating city for anyone who is even remotely interested in European history, and there are countless landmarks and remnants of earlier times throughout Berlin.

London, on the other hand, is likely the better option for all the artists and creative people. The city has 65 more museums than Berlin and 13 more universities, so it’s easily the better option for people who are looking to stay in academia, especially if it’s surrounding any of the arts.

The Culinary Scene

If you’re a foodie you will absolutely love it in London – the culinary scene is amazing, with so many international options you can try different cuisines for every meal. Food is a big part of the culture in London and it’s evident in everything from the cupcakes that are served with your afternoon tea to the gastropubs that serve staple dishes alongside ice-cold beers.

Also, London has a much larger immigrant population than Berlin, so it makes sense that it has many more international restaurants as well. It’s even leading with Michelin-starred restaurants – London has 69, while Berlin has just 20.

But that’s not to say that the culinary scene in Berlin is nonexistent. It isn’t and it’s slowly starting to catch up with London. Fast food is very popular in the city, and you’ll find cheap go-to’s like kebabs and currywurst on practically every other corner. A lot of the restaurants will serve traditional German food, but the amount of international restaurants in the city is increasing by the day.

Getting Around

Getting around the city is much easier in Berlin than in London for multiple reasons. The first one is the size of the city – London is almost twice the size of Berlin, so it’s going to take longer to get from one point to another. Also, because the city is so much bigger, public transportation is much more expensive. Monthly passes for the Tube cost about three times as much as those for Berlin’s U-Bahn.

What’s worse is that the U-Bahn is better than the tube. The trains are newer and they work 24/7, even on weekends, so you’re not conditioned by public transport when you go out. It’s also worth noting that driving is very common in Berlin and traffic jams are not as hectic as they are in London.

Taxi and Uber are more expensive in Berlin than in London, but not by a lot. Both cities are considered bike-friendly, but it’s generally more pleasant to cycle around in Berlin than in London since you won’t encounter as many people along the way.

Visiting Or Moving?

Although London is a more exciting city to visit, Berlin is the better option out of the two if you’re thinking of moving to a new place. The average salary is the same in both cities, but Berlin offers a better quality of life and is generally much cheaper. Rent is a lot more affordable in Berlin, as well as pretty much everything else from public transportation to groceries.

Also, keep the language barrier in mind. The official language in Berlin is German and, although a lot of the population speaks fluent English, they’re not exactly keen on speaking it with tourists who haven’t even bothered to learn Danke Schon.

You should learn some basic phrases in German before you travel to Berlin, but it shouldn’t be too hard to get around the city speaking only English either. If you’re going to move to Berlin and try to get a job, you will need to learn as much German as possible before you even buy the plane ticket.

English is the official language in London, so at least you don’t need to learn a new language if you’re going to move there. But there are other cons to consider, the cost being the main one. Crime rates are also generally higher in London, but that makes sense considering just how much bigger it is.

If you like going out to clubs and partying, Berlin is hands down the better city for you. People go out in London, but they usually go out to pubs with friends where they drink and enjoy all sorts of fried finger food snacks. Proper clubs exist in London, but they’re not quite as popular as in Berlin.

Also, a lot of people in London are conditioned by the tube’s operating hours, and they will desert the party earlier just because they won’t be able to return home otherwise.

Berlin, on the other hand, has a 24-hour tube service so you never have to leave the party early just to get home. They’re known for an amazing nightclub scene that has everything from fabulous raves to clubs that are so exclusive the bouncers will only let the cool people in. It’s Berghain and we’ve all heard about it – if that’s the kind of stuff that you’re into, you’ll definitely love it in Berlin.

But if you’re into long nights out with friends with cold beers and fish and chips, the London pub scene might just be more up your alley.

Cost Of Travel/Living

London is about 50% more expensive than Berlin in general. That’s for everything from rent to a monthly tube pass. Restaurants and pubs are pricier, as are tickets to tourists attractions, and the cost of hotels and AirBnBs. If you’re trying to travel on a tighter budget, you’ll get more bang for your buck in Berlin.

It’s worth noting that neither city is exactly affordable. Bars and restaurants in Berlin can have exorbitant prices, especially in areas that are crawling with tourists. Try to find some tips from the locals where to go out for great service at reasonable prices.

Top Sights In Berlin

Old Soviet bloc buildings, stunning city views , and phenomenal street art are very common in Berlin and they’re some of the first things newcomers go to see. Read more about those, and Berlin’s other iconic sights below!

Berlin Wall Memorial

For most people, the Berlin Wall Memorial is one of the first things they want to see when they just arrive. The city’s most iconic landmark is nowadays a beautiful park with lots of greenery. The remains of the Berlin Wall are still adorned with graffiti, and there’s an open-air exhibition with photographs that tell the wall’s history.

Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is another iconic Berlin landmark. It boasts 12 Doric columns, with a classical goddess statue at the very top. The 18 th -century landmark gate is built in neoclassical architectural style, and it’s situated in the western part of Berlin’s city center. It’s a beautiful sight, as well as a symbol of Germany’s turbulent history.

Bode Museum

Bode Museum is easily the best museum in Berlin. The museum building alone is spectacular, let alone the collection of sculptures and Byzantine art inside. The riverfront building was built in Baroque Revival style and it’s even a UNESCO World Heritage site.

WWII Tour of Berlin

Berlin has a lot of remnants of WWII and if you want to see as many as possible, the best thing to do is go on a guided WWII tour of the city. There are both walking tours and bike tours, and they can last anywhere from 3 to 7 hours. The tours feature experienced guides who tell you about the history of Berlin during the war, and they include as many WWII sites as possible within the given timespan.

East Berlin

Tours of East Berlin are very popular among tourists. It’s interesting to see what it was like to live behind the wall, in East Berlin’s former Soviet Sector. The building blocks certainly look out of place compared to the rest of the city, and a lot of them are abandoned and ruined.

Walking tours of East Berlin have become so popular that you can choose from a quick stroll around the best-known neighborhoods to 12-hour Cold War tours that teach you a whole’s semester worth of German history.

Teufelsberg

Teufelsberg is an old US listening station that was used in the Cold War. It sits on a man-made hill in the west part of the city, and it offers some beautiful panoramic views of Berlin. There are 90-minute historic tours of the place for anyone interested to learn more about the history of the place.

If you’re into street art, you will really like it here considering that the entire place is adorned with colorful graffiti. The best thing about Teufelsberg is that it’s not an extremely famous attraction, so it’s unlikely to be crowded!

Top Sights In London

Red phone booths, double-deckers, and the Big Ben – those are the top three things that come to my mind when I think of trip to London . But they’re just a few of the things that make this city so incredible, so read on to see the other sights that are not to be missed in London!

Westminster

Westminster has so many iconic landmarks that it’s just easier to go on a tour of the entire neighborhood. Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the River Thames, Westminster Bridge, the House of Parliament, St. James Park, and many others.

The government area is extremely popular with tourists, which should come as no surprise considering it has the first five London landmarks on anyone’s list. It’s best to travel there really early in the day if you want to get some cool pics without really big crowds.

Notting Hill

Notting Hill is the trendy London area that’s popular with the younger crowd. It has a lot of colorful cafes, high-end restaurants, and the vibrant Portobello Road with its pastel houses and countless shops. The area has a lot of vintage clothing stores so it’s a great place to do some thrift shopping.

The Shard is London’s tallest tower with the best city views. Head to The View from The Shard – the city’s highest viewing gallery with 360 panoramic views of London. There’s a champagne bar as well, so you can enjoy those scenic vistas with a glass of bubbly by your side.

Just remember that The Shard is one of the most Instagrammable places in London , so you might want to book your tickets early.

Tower of London

Tower of London is the city’s iconic medieval castle that’s home to the Crown Jewels. It’s one of the top sights in the city if you’re into British history and the royals. One of the best things to do in the museum is to go on the Beefeater tour.

It tells you more about Yeoman Warders, the men who have guarded the London Tower since the Tudor era. It’s a fascinating tour, and it’s one of the most interesting places to do in the Tower of London, in addition to the mesmerizing crown jewels.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the home of the royal family and it’s one of those attractions that you should at least check out from a distance. It’s possible to tour the private and state rooms within the palace, but that’s hardly the most interesting thing about the palace. The changing of the guard is far more interesting, and it’s what draws both tourists and locals to this part of the city.

Warner Bros Studio Tour

Warner Bros Studio in London is home to all the Harry Potter sets used in the films. You can go on a walk down Diagon Alley, visit Dumbledore’s office, and check out the Great Hall.

This is an absolute must for any Harry Potter fans out there, and it’s about a thousand times better than just going to King’s Cross. There are lots of souvenir shops at the studio, so you can easily get all the Harry Potter memorabilia that you don’t need but must-have.

Distance Between London And Berlin

One last thing worth noting about these two amazing European cities is that they’re only a 2-hour flight away from one another. Budget airlines like Ryanair will take you from Berlin to London or vice versa for some 30 Euros, so you can always just travel to the other city for a day!

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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

Pros & Cons
Attractions
Backpackers
Public Transit
Walkability
More time in London or Berlin?
Which is Cheaper, London or Berlin? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, London or Berlin?

When to Visit London or Berlin?

Should you visit London or Berlin?

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 London and Berlin can help you decide which place is right for you.

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 this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Berlin is a historic, cultural, and artsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

London and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Popular museums and historical sights
Numerous theater shows
Active nightlife
Good music scene
Popular at Christmas
Known for Christmas markets
Family-friendly
Good for couples and romance
Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Very walkable
Big city activities
Impressive beauty
Home to Big Ben
Less popular with couples
Less walkable

Is there more to do in London or Berlin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Berlin, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more touristy than Berlin and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Berlin is popular for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history.

How is London different from Berlin?

Which is better for a holiday.

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

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Berlin and London.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, London has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Berlin that are not to be missed. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Is London or Berlin Better for Theater?

London is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both London and Berlin.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berlin makes for a great culinary experience. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is London or Berlin Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both London and Berlin.

London is a must-see 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.

Berlin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Is London or Berlin Better for Music?

London and Berlin are both destinations where visitors can find terrific live music.

London has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Berlin is a world class music destination. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Berlin?

If you're looking to go shopping, London and Berlin both offer plenty of terrific spots.

Many people travel to London specifically to go shopping. 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.

Berlin is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Is London or Berlin Better for Christmas?

London is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Berlin does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in London . There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Berlin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Berlin Better for Christmas Markets?

London is an unbeatable place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Berlin does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel from around the world to visit the Christmas markets in London . The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Berlin does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Berlin Better for Families?

London is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Berlin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Is London or Berlin Better for Couples?

London is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is London or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both London and Berlin are terrific places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit London, as it is a very popular city 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.

Berlin is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Is London or Berlin Better for Students?

For students, both London and Berlin are terrific places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

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

London and Berlin both offer terrific public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Berlin has a great public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Is London or Berlin a more walkable city?

London is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

Should I spend more time in Berlin or London?

How long in london or berlin.

Both London and Berlin have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, London has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in London than Berlin . In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 2-7 days is enough time in Berlin.

Families should spend more time in London than Berlin. 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 Berlin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in London that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than Berlin 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.

How many days in London or Berlin? Ideal Length of Stay London 3-7 Berlin 2-7

One day in London or Berlin?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Berlin. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in London or Berlin?

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.

Berlin 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.

Five days in London or Berlin?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berlin. 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 London or Berlin?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the creative big city of Berlin. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom , The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom , The Best Tours for Seniors to Germany , and The Best 3-Day Tours from Munich .

Which place is cheaper, Berlin or London?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

London Prices UK Prices Berlin Prices Germany Prices
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day London £ 189 Berlin £ 116

The average daily cost (per person) in London is £189, while the average daily cost in Berlin is £116. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for London and Berlin in more detail.

Accommodation

Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person London £ 123 Berlin £ 54
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room London £ 246 Berlin £ 108

Compare Hotels in London and Berlin

Looking for a hotel in London or Berlin? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in London

Hotels in Berlin

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. London £ 26 Berlin £ 15

Typical Local Transportation Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in London:

Taxi Ride £ 15
Heathrow Express £ 18
Luggage Storage £ 8.00
London Map £ 1.29
Oyster Card £ 36
Train to Gatwick Airport (2) £ 22
Oyster Card £ 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

Also for London, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

Southampton Cruise Terminals: Private Transfer to London: $1,348
Stonehenge Private Transfer with Optional Guide: $1,103
London Luton Airport (LTN): Transfer to Southampton Port: $860
Southampton Port Transfer with Stonehenge stop-over included: $815
London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Transfer to Bristol city: $705
Southampton: LHR to Southampton Executive SUV Transfer: $683
London Gatwick Airport (LGW): Transfer to Southampton Port: $674
Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $604
Private Transfer From Southampton Cruise Terminal to London: $591
Private Transfer Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Terminal: $591
London Heathrow Airport To Cambridge Transfers: $525

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:

Short Trip Metro Ticket £ 1.18
Bahn Ticket £ 2.52
Short Taxi Ride £ 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

Also for Berlin, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

Private transfer to/from Berlin to Prague.: $780
Private transfer from Berlin to Prague: $754
Berlin to Prague Private Transfer: $554
Private Highlights Tour with Hotel Transfers: $380
Trabi Limousine Airport Transfer with City Tour: $371
Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Berlin APT-HTL (SXF): $300
Classic Remise Private Tour with Transfer : $287
Classic Remise Private Tour with Transfer: $281
Round Trip Private Transfer Berlin Brandenburg BER to Berlin City by Luxury Van: $279
Round Trip Private Transfer Berlin Brandenburg BER to Berlin City by Luxury Car: $279
Private Transfer: Berlin to River Cruise Dock Nuremberg - Port/Harbor transport: $273
Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with Meissen Porcelain Manufactory stop: $271

Is it cheaper to fly into London or Berlin?

Prices for flights to both Berlin and London change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

Food Meals for one day London £ 34 Berlin £ 44

Typical Food Prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:

Lunch at Starbucks £ 13
Tea £ 6.00
Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason £ 39
Morning Tea £ 6.35
Pastry £ 5.00
Sushi Dinner for One £ 18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

For London, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

Borough Market Food Tour - Self Guided: $6.84
Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $36
Underground - Spitalfields, East London Food Tour: $38
Underground - Soho to Covent Garden Food Tour: $38
Underground - Camden Food Tour: $38
Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner: $38
Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $40
Traveling Spoon Nepalese Momos Private Online Cooking Class: $40
Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $40
East London Food Tour: $49
Pizza Making Cookery Class: $55
No Diet Club - Best food Tour in East London: $70

Typical Food Prices in Berlin

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Berlin:

Sandwich and Coffee To Go £ 4.21
Turkish Sandwich £ 1.68
Currywurst £ 1.68
2 Pho Noodles £ 7.57
Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2) £ 50
Mauer Park (2) £ 9.26
Coffees at Impala £ 6.56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

English Comedy Ticket including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $19
English Stand-Up Comedy with Pizza and Shots: $19
Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $28
English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $29
Hard Rock Cafe Berlin With Set Lunch or Dinner : $35
Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings: $64
Evening Yacht Cruise with Aperitif & Optional Dinner: $65
Sharing plate food tour in Berlin: $79
Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $82
Berlin 3-Course Dinner Cruise: $84
3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $103
Berlin Food Walking Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

Entertainment

Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. London £ 33 Berlin £ 19

Typical Entertainment Prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

Two Tickets to a Concert £ 83
London Symphony Orchestra £ 34
London Pass £ 47
Comedy Show £ 8.00

Tours and Activities in London

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.

Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tours Christmas Special: $27
London Covent Garden: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $7.54
Self-Guided Audio Tour Medieval Legends, ghosts and fire: $10
Silent Disco Walking Tours West End Boogie Shoes: $27
Slavery and City of London Walking Tour: $16
1 Hour Guided AI Walking Tour from London in Any Language: $47
10 Cultural Spots in the West End: London Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
2 Hour Belgravia Walking Tour and High Tea: $133
2 Hour Guided Walking Tour at British Museum: $107
2 Hours History Walking Tour of The Secret Streets in Chelsea : $87
2 Hours Rock and Roll Historical Walking Tour in London : $66
2-Hour Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour in Whitechapel, London: $23

Typical Entertainment Prices in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

Berlin Zoo (2) £ 16

Tours and Activities in Berlin

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Berlin.

E-scooter Sightseeing Tours in Berlin: $69
Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour from Berlin: $34
"Bosch&Beyond". The immersive exhibition experience. A must see in Berlin: $22
"Inside Berlin" East meets West - Food & Culture Tour: $205
(Copy of) Munich: Murder game with interactive city tour: $76
1-hour Sightseeing Boat Cruise Through Historic City Center: $32
2-H Fabulous Berlin Historical Guided Fat Tire Tour: $72
2-Hour Luxurious Private VIP - Berlin Fat Tire Tour: $94
2-Hour Segway Discovery Tour Berlin: $78
2.5-Hour Berlin Wall and Memorial Sites Walking Tour: $22
3 Hour Berlin Guided Small Group Fat Tire E-Scooter Tour: $88
3 Hour Guided VIP Private Segway Tour: $108
Alcohol Drinks for one day London £ 15 Berlin £ 14

Sample the Local Flavors in London

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in London:

Self Guided Audio Tour in London Old Pub Crawl: $7.92
Great British Pub Tour: $20
2-Hour Haunted Pub Walking Tour: $21
1 Big Night Out Weekday Pub Crawl: $25
Shoreditch Pub Crawl in London: $27
Camden Pub Crawl & Bar Tour London: $33
Burlesque Cabaret Show in Covent Garden: $33
Pub Crawl and Nightlife Tour: $33
2-Hour Historic Pub Tour: $33
Camden Pub Crawl in London: $33
Central London Pub Crawl: $33
The Great East London Pub Crawl!: $33

Typical Alcohol Prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:

Drinks at a Show £ 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

Also in Berlin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

Pub Crawl & Tour with Free Shots and Free Club Entry: $19
brewery tour with beer tasting: $20
Original Pub Crawl Berlin: $20
Private Berlin Pub Crawl Tour with Free Shots and Club Entry: $20
Bar Crawl with Shots and Club Entry: $22
Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Club Entry: $22
Vagabund Brauerei Beer Tasting & Guided Brewery Tour: $24
Showgirls of Burlesque Entry Ticket: $43
Wine on Canvas - Paint Workshop and Wine Tasting: $44
Beer hike in Berlin Experience brewery and craft beer: $62
Korean rice wine tasting: $73
VAUDEVILLE VARIETY BURLESQUE REVUE 17 at the Wintergarten Varieté: $81

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between London and Berlin, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Berlin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Berlin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Berlin 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 Berlin.

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

London has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Berlin. When comparing the sizes of London and Berlin, 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 London or Berlin?

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 London or Berlin in the Summer?

Both Berlin and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to London this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berlin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, London is generally around the same temperature as Berlin. Daily temperatures in London average around 18°C (64°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Berlin. London usually receives less sunshine than Berlin during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Berlin. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Summer Average Temperatures July London 18°C (64°F) Berlin 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit London or Berlin in the Autumn?

Both Berlin and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Berlin in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

London is a little warmer than Berlin in the autumn. The daily temperature in London averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Berlin fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, London often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in October than Berlin. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Autumn Average Temperatures October London 12°C (53°F) Berlin 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit London or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Berlin. Many visitors come to London in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Berlin can be very cold during winter. London can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, London is much warmer than Berlin. Typically, the winter temperatures in London in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Berlin averages at about -0°C (31°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives more rain than Berlin. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Winter Average Temperatures January London 4°C (40°F) Berlin -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit London or Berlin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Berlin. Most visitors come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Berlin because of the activities around the city.

In April, London is generally around the same temperature as Berlin. Daily temperatures in London average around 9°C (48°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Berlin. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun.

London usually gets more rain in April than Berlin. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Spring Average Temperatures April London 9°C (48°F) Berlin 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Berlin and London

Related articles for london, related articles for berlin.

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History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

London or Berlin: Which European Capital is Right for You?

Last Updated on: 5th August 2021, 12:35 pm

Are you trying to decide whether to visit London or Berlin? I love traveling in both European capitals, but they are very different travel destinations. Here are twelve points to consider when deciding whether Berlin or London is right for you.

Pick London if…

Here are the reasons you should pick London over Berlin.

…You love all things Tudors.

England - London - Tower of London - Pixabay

I know many of you are obsessed with Tudor history (and most likely also the show). So if you want to see where Anne Boleyn was held and executed, then you need to visit the Tower of London . Other places in London where you can learn about the Tudors include Hampton Court Palace, Lambeth Palace, and the Globe Theater.

…You’ve been dreaming of Stonehenge

For many, a trip to see Stonehenge in person is on their travel bucket list. It was pretty high on mine before I got to go! In person, Stonehenge looks both smaller in photos and more mysterious. Of course, it’s also an important historic site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to UNESCO :

Stonehenge is the most architecturally sophisticated prehistoric stone circle in the world, while Avebury is the largest. Together with inter-related monuments, and their associated landscapes, they demonstrate Neolithic and Bronze Age ceremonial and mortuary practices resulting from around 2000 years of continuous use and monument building between circa 3700 and 1600 BC. As such they represent a unique embodiment of our collective heritage.

You can visit Stonehenge as a day trip from London. Most organized tours will combine Stonehenge with the Roman Baths.

…You want a night out at the theater

One of the first things I did in London was head to a production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night . While the Globe Theater is one of the most famous theaters in the world (if not the most famous), London’s theater scene is much larger than just Shakespeare.

You can get theater tickets to West End shows for much less than what those same productions cost on Broadway. For example, seeing Hamilton on Broadway in NYC was one of my favorite trips of all time. Yet you could buy a plane ticket to London, book a hotel room, and see the musical in London for less than the cost of just the theater tickets in NYC.

…You aren’t worried about your budget

London is an expensive city to travel in. If you’re trying to stick to a strict budget of less than $75 a day, you’re going to really have to pay attention to what you’re spending. However, it’s an amazing city to visit. If you aren’t super budget conscious or if you’re planning on spending closer to $100-$200 a day (plus airfare), then you can have an amazing trip.

Accommodations are the biggest expense since it’s really hard to find budget hotel rooms in places where you actually want to stay. So if you’re willing to spend more to stay in a good location, you’ll have an absolutely amazing time.

Pick Berlin if…

Pick Berlin instead of London if you care about these four things.

…You want to explore a non-English speaking culture

Not everyone who reads my site comes from an English-speaking country, but the majority do. If you’re from the US, Canada, the UK, etc., and you want to travel the world, you should get out of the English-speaking regions.

Berlin is a great place to dip your toe in. While almost everyone in the service industry here speaks English, you’ll still get to experience what it’s like to be in a non-English speaking country. While both London or Berlin are amazing world-class cities, only one will truly push your boundaries and travel skills if you’ve only been in English-speaking parts of the world before.

…You want to do some Red Tourism

If you’re interested in learning more about the legacy of Communism in Europe and what life was like behind the Iron Curtain, then you should pick Berlin. Here you can learn about the Berlin Wall, what life was like for East Germans, and what the legacy of this era is for modern Berlin. (Hint: there’s more of a legacy than you might think. It has only been thirty years, after all).

I love doing Red Tourism , which is traveling to Communist and post-Communist places to learn about this era of history. Berlin is a great place to dip your toe in before heading to places like Hungary , Ukraine , or Georgia ,

…You travel for Christmas Markets

Germany - Berlin - Christmas Market at Gendarmenmarkt

You could have a wonderful Christmas trip to either Berlin or London, but there’s nothing like the real German Christmas Markets in Germany and Austria to celebrate this time of year. Berlin is full of amazing Christmas Markets to explore (I went to ten on my last trip!). After being in Europe for a few years, it’s starting to feel like it’s not even Christmas time until I’ve been to at least one market.

…You’re traveling on a strict budget

I mentioned this a bit in the London section, but London is an expensive city. By contrast, Berlin is much more affordable. You can travel here for $75 a day plus airfare, provided you stay in a hostel or have someone to split your budget hotel room costs with.

Public transportation is much less expensive here (and much more pleasant), so you can get around the city with ease. Many of the best things to do here are free (or fairly inexpensive). Groceries are fairly cheap, or you can even buy cheap street food.

The other reason to pick Berlin over London if you’re a budget traveler is that you will be able to enjoy your trip more. Your money stretches farther, and making small travel mistakes, like getting lost and having to buy a second train ticket, won’t cost you as much. You can enjoy your trip more since there’s more room for error.

Pick Either London or Berlin for…

Whether you choose Berlin or London, you’ll find both cities have these things in common.

…Fantastic food scenes

Both cities have great local food and wonderful international scenes. My last trip to Berlin, I scarfed Vietnamese and Turkish food to my heart’s content, while the Indian food scene in London is off the charts.

While neither German food nor English food is too highly praised internationally, you can find great local food in both cities. Currywurst and fish and chips are so much better when made by the people who know exactly what they’re doing. Personally, I’m a fan of British pub food, especially the pies, and in Germany you pretty much have to enjoy some local sausage.

…Vibrant bar scenes

If you’re a fan of drinking beer, you’ll find a home in both cities. You can easily spend every evening of your trip in a new British pub or Berlin bar. Both cities also have great pub crawls and beer tours if you want to learn about the history of each city’s brew culture while you’re on your trip.

…Learning World War II history

Germany - Berlin - Templehof Airport Tour

While the two cities were on separate sides of Wolrd War II, the destruction caused by the war has left serious scars on both cities. You can learn all about what life was like during the war in both cities, seeing the landmarks that were affected, what was rebuilt afterward, and what both cities lost.

…Amazing street art

These are two of the best street art cities in the world. I personally think it’s easier to find in Berlin, but London is the home of some of the world’s most famous working street artists. Whichever city you pick, you can go on a street art tour to learn all about the most important pieces in each city and what the best neighborhoods are for finding it.

London Travel Resources

Are you leaning towards London? Here are my London tips to help you plan your vacation.

Start with my London Packing List , so you know what to bring with you and what to wear each season.

If you’re interested in visiting UNESCO sites and historic places around London, check out my posts on How to Visit the Tower of London , How to Visit Westminster Abbey, and How to Visit Westminster Abbey.

Love to listen while you plan your travels? I have episodes about London on both of my podcasts. You can check my podcast episode about the Roman Baths, The History of Windsor Castle , and Banqueting House.

You can also listen to my travel podcast episode about London . Plus here are all the best travel podcasts I use to plan my own trips.

Berlin Travel Resources

Germany - Berlin - Potsdammerplatz Christmas Market Selfie Stephanie

Did you pick Berlin? If so, here are my Berlin travel resources to help you plan your trip!

Start with my list of Germany travel tips and what to pack for Germany , so you know what to bring with you and what to wear in each season. You can also see why I particularly love visiting Germany in autumn (the colors are insane)!

Next, check out my Berlin souvenir guide and the best Berlin day trips to take while you’re here.

Love to listen while you plan your travels? I have episodes about Berlin on both of my podcasts. You can check my history podcast episode about wartime Berlin and my travel podcast episode about Berlin . Plus here are all the best travel podcasts I use to plan my own trips.

Finally, Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Whichever city you choose, make sure you have a valid Travel Insurance Policy because accidents happen on the road. I pay for World Nomads, and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging out in cities where tourists can be the victims of pickpockets.

I have been a paying customer of World Nomads for travel insurance for two years, and I happily recommend them. If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

Pin This Guide to Choosing Between London or Berlin for Your Trip

Berlin or London: Which European Capital is Right for You?

In this Article:

3 thoughts on “London or Berlin: Which European Capital is Right for You?”

both countries are awesome to visit but going to London is my dream♥ I am planning to visit it and your blog helps me a lot for a better plan. thanks for share

You’re welcome! What made you pick London?

As a Brit, the beer in Berlin would be the deal maker!

Berlin v London – how does it compare?

With data from our City Life Index, here’s how life in Berlin stacks up against the UK capital

Clubs , culture , cafés , graffiti , hipsters and history at every turn: Berlin certainly has a seductive reputation. The German capital is a magnet for expats from across the world, especially creative types from across Europe and the US drawn by the idea of three-day parties and low, low rents.

But what’s life really like in Berlin? And should you think about moving here? We surveyed hundreds of Berliners about their city as part of the Time Out City Life Index 2018 , and compared their answers to people in London. Here’s what we learned.

Is it really that affordable?

One of Berlin’s big draws in the last ten years has been the perception that you can get by here on very little money. Work just a few hours a week, they say, and you’ll have enough cash to get by and enough time to write that novel, record that album or build that career as a vegetable-based performance artist. But is it true?

Well, the numbers bear it out. When we asked whether Berlin was affordable, 29% of locals agreed, compared to just 2% in London. On average, people think you can comfortably get by here on a salary of €49,815 or £44,190: 17% lower than in London. And a night out in Berlin costs €61.92 or around £55, compared to £71.45 in London.

Our survey also confirms that part-time work is a big thing here. Fewer Berliners work full-time than Londoners, and more work part-time. There are more people who declared themselves happily unemployed (as well as more who said they were looking for work). However, the average wage isn’t that high, and the gap between what people earn and what they think they need to earn to live comfortably is actually wider than in London.

Are Berliners friendly?

We asked Berliners about the biggest stereotypes about their city that also happened to be true. The most common response was to quote the city’s ex-mayor Klaus Wowereit, who called the city ‘ arm aber sexy ’ (poor but sexy). But plenty also mentioned the ‘Berliner schnauze’ or ‘Berlin snout’: the city’s traditional blunt manner, masking a good nature. ‘Behind many a Berliner schnauze sits a big heart’, said one German respondent.

And according to our survey, it’s kind of true: behind its gruff facade, Berlin is a friendly place. Berliners reckon it’s easier to make friends, find love or have sex in their city than Londoners do. But they like to keep their relationships IRL, using social networks and dating apps much less than people in London. They’re more likely than Londoners to bump into someone they know in the street, and of all 32 cities we surveyed, they’re most likely to know their next-door neighbour’s name. Remember that if you’re ever on the receiving end of a snouting.

How hedonistic is Berlin?

Berliners have a reputation as party animals, but it seems they actually prefer to turn in early than chance it in the queue at Berghain . Berliners go to bars and clubs less than Londoners. They go out less on weeknights. They take drugs less often – in fact, 84% haven’t got high in the last year. And locals rate their city less well for live music and nightlife than Londoners – despite having a selection of world-renowned nightspots on their doorstep and a U-Bahn that runs 24 hours a day. Oh, well – that just leaves more room for visitors.

What about booze? This may come as a surprise to anyone who’s ever heard the word ‘Oktoberfest’, but our German respondents were less likely to drink at all than people in London: only 77% said they drink alcohol, compared to 93% of Londoners, and a lower percentage of people admitted they couldn’t get through the day without a stiffener. Unsurprisingly, they also have fewer hangovers.

That said, when Berliners do go out drinking there’s a clear favourite. Four out of ten Germans would order ein bier over anything else – no wonder, when it’s cheaper than mineral water – and of all those beer drinkers, half opt for helles bier or lager. (Craft beer isn’t a big thing here, unlike in London, where it’s only slightly less popular than lager.) Want to find out more? Here are the city’s best bars and pubs where you can get down to some important research.

Are Berliners happier than Londoners?

If you’re wondering whether moving to Berlin would actually improve your wellbeing, the answer isn’t clear. Berliners are less likely than Londoners to have felt happy in the last 24 hours – but they’re also less likely to have felt stressed, lonely, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or sleep-deprived! Maybe life here is just less intense than in London?

Berliners are certainly more insular – they go on fewer holidays than Londoners, and they’re more likely to find their own country’s accent sexier than a foreign one. Perhaps surprisingly for a city with such a divided and difficult past, Berliners are more backward-looking: fewer people think their city has changed for the better, more say the best thing about the place is its proud history, and – given access to a time machine – they’re more likely to elect to travel to the city’s past rather than the future.

On the other hand, locals don’t tend to agree that Berlin is great because it feels exciting, because it’s diverse, or because there’s always something new to discover. (Perhaps they’re just jaded? More Berliners than Londoners had lived in the city for more than ten years.) While 75% say they’re proud to be live in their city, that’s less than the 92% of proud Londoners.

Still, people here appreciate their city’s creativity, resilience, solidarity and abundant green spaces. Finally – and this might be the dealbreaker – they’re full of praise for the city’s transport system. So if you’re fed up of your cramped and crowded, constantly delayed daily commute, maybe it’s worth signing up for that German language course after all.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Discover the very best of Berlin

Your ultimate guide to berlin.

Things to do

Restaurants and bars, museums and galleries, clubs and music, shops and more – discover the best the city has to offer.

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Living in London vs Berlin: 12 Reasons to Consider Before Moving Abroad

Written by Post author: Chloe Smulian
Post last modified: Updated on July 24, 2024

london vs berlin - which city has better cost of living and quality of life

Deciding between living abroad in London vs Berlin? Find out the pros and cons of moving to Berlin vs London from expats!

Living abroad is exciting! But it doesn’t come without its own challenges and one of the first hurdles of moving abroad is deciding where to move abroad to.

And if the saying, ‘so much world, so little time’ resonates with you, you’ll know that this is no easy feat.

So we thought it would be useful to share our personal account on the pros and cons of living in London vs Berlin. We considered both options before making the final decision to move to Berlin.

So if you’re wondering how different life is moving to the capital city of Germany vs the UK, keep reading.

We’re answering some of the most frequently asked questions we get as expats in Germany. Like ‘Is living in Berlin expensive?’, ‘Is Berlin more expensive than London?’, ‘Is Berlin a good place to live?’ and ultimately whether Berlin is better than London.

1. Cost of Living in London vs Berlin

expats looking at tower bridge in london wondering whether it is better to live in berlin vs london

The cost of living is the most obvious, but also one of the most important factors to consider when choosing between moving to Berlin vs London.

It’s a widely known fact that London is one of the most expensive cities to live in. But can the same be said for Berlin? It is the capital city of the largest European economy after all.

Let’s look at some of the largest monthly expenses you’ll need to budget for living in London vs Berlin to answer this question.

Renting an Apartment in London vs Berlin

Whether you’re moving to Germany or the UK, the biggest living cost is renting a house or an apartment.

This is particularly true if you’re planning to move to London, where real estate prices and rental costs are renowned for being one of the highest in the world.

And exactly how much is that, you may ask.

According to fellow expat blogger and our dear friend, Chelsea from ‘The Portable Wife’. You can expect to pay anything between £1,000 to £2,000 per month to rent a one bedroom apartment in London.

Compare that to what an average Londoner earns per month and you can easily wipe out half your monthly salary paying rent alone. And if you want to live close to the city center of London in zone 1, 2, or 3, be prepared to budget up to 70% of your salary for rent!

Yikes? We think the word ‘insane’ may be more appropriate.

man looking across thames river contemplating the costs of living in London

Rental prices in Berlin have been increasing rapidly over the last decade. But are still considered fairly reasonable compared to other major cities in Western Europe.

In Berlin, you can expect to pay between €750 to €900 (around £660 to £800) for a one bedroom apartment. That’s about 40% of the average monthly salary you’d earn in Berlin.

Much more reasonable, right? Plus, the chances of living in a larger, more spacious apartment are much higher in Berlin vs London.

Renting Apartments in Berlin

The much lower rental costs for living in Berlin vs London is a HUGE pro for moving to Germany vs the UK. But with the cheaper rent comes it’s own con: it’s notoriously challenging and stressful finding an apartment to rent in Berlin. We know from personal experience!

The combination of the lack of supply, language barrier, and the huge demand from expats looking to move to Berlin makes the task even harder.

blocks of old style european residential buildings and apartments you can expect to live in berlin, germany

But don’t worry. You can dramatically boost your chances of renting an apartment or flat in Berlin if you’re armed with the right resources, information, and mentality.

Make sure you read our Renting Apartments in Berlin guide if you’re planning to move to Berlin. And if you’re moving elsewhere in Germany, we’ve got 12 tips that will boost your success in renting apartments in Germany .

Related Guide: Apartment scams are rife in any city where housing demand is high. This is true for both Berlin and London. Read our 7 tips to spot and avoid Berlin apartment scams so you don’t get caught out.

Public Transportation Cost

Public transportation is another essential monthly expense to consider when deciding between living in London vs Berlin. And if you’re leaning towards moving to London, it will probably be your second highest living expense.

London is almost twice the size of Berlin, so it makes sense that public transportation costs are also higher. But did you know that the cost of public transport in London is almost 3 TIMES the price of what it costs in Berlin? Eeek!

The cost of public transport depends on which zone you live in of course. So we’ve compared the monthly and yearly public transportation ticket for London vs Berlin using the zones within the city’s main transport ring to make it comparable.

For London that would be zones 1 to 6 and for Berlin, zones A, B and C.

The Deutschlandticket (49 Euro Ticket) gives you access to unlimited public transport in Germany and only costs £41 (or €49). This is the maximum amount you can expect to pay for a monthly public transportation ticket in Berlin.

Most people in Berlin are able and likely to live within Zones A and B, which is covered by the 49 Euro Ticket bringing your public transport costs to around £41 (or €49) per month. And if you want to bring the cost of getting around even lower, you can also opt for the bike life.

Cycling in London vs Berlin

Both London and Berlin are considered bike-friendly cities. But in our opinion, we feel that this is more true when you’re living in Berlin vs London.

We may be biased as expats who live in Berlin. But for us, a bike-friendly city doesn’t just mean that bicycle lanes exist and that cyclists have priority over cars. Those things are important of course, but what’s also essential is that you are able to get around to most parts of the city within a 30 to 45 minute bicycle ride.

That’s possible when you live in Berlin and it’s actually the preferred mode of transport for getting around in the city.

man cycling on swapfiets bicycle with a bike pictogram on the bike path in germany

We’ve permanently switched from taking the train to cycling to get around Berlin and been loving life on two wheels!

Not only does it save you money, but it’s also great for your health, an eco-friendly and sustainable way to travel, and often faster and more convenient than taking public transport. How many more pros do you need than that?

The only con of this: bicycle theft! Oh yes, bike theft is rife in Berlin!

According to the Berliner Zeitung, more than 28,000 bicycles are stolen every year in Berlin. And this is why we use bike sharing in Berlin .

We personally bike share using Swapfiets. It costs us €17.50 a month to rent a high quality, 7-gear bicycle that we can use and keep as if it were our own. And the best part is that we never have to worry about repairs or maintenance, as Swapfiets takes care of it all. Read our Swapfiets review to find out more!

Want to try Swapfiets for yourself? Use this Swapfiets Discount Code and SAVE €7.50 on your Swapfiets subscription (Discount Code: OSAID76140) .

If this discount code doesn’t work, let us know and we’ll find you another one.

Related Guide : Never cycled in Germany before? Then read these 24 Bike Road Rules and Traffic Laws for cycling in Berlin and Germany .

Food and Grocery Prices

Food and grocery prices are surprisingly similar whether you’re living in Berlin or London. This is only true if you’re cooking the meals yourself though.

If you do your food shopping at mid-range grocery stores like Sainsbury or Tesco in London, you can expect to spend around £180 per person per month.

This is quite similar to how much we spend on food and groceries in Berlin shopping at our mid-range equivalents (Edeka and Rewe), which is around €200 (£180) per person per month.

If you love visiting cute cafes or dining out, then London is way more expensive. According to Numbeo, it’s around 30% to 40% more expensive to dine out in London vs Berlin.

Something worth noting if you’re a big foodie deciding between moving to Berlin vs London.

Other Monthly Expenses Living in London vs Berlin

Overall, you can expect the cost of living in London to be around £2,300 per person per month vs €1,100 (£980) for Berlin if you rent a one bedroom apartment.

Looking at the cost of living alone, Berlin is the clear winner.

sun setting over the spree river with molecule man sculpture in the background - one of the pros of living in berlin

We’ve just compared the biggest and most essential monthly expenses you’ll need to consider before moving to London vs Berlin. There are others of course. But we won’t go through every single expense here because we’ve already written a comprehensive Cost of Living in Berlin guide for that.

And if you’re looking for a detailed Cost of Living in London guide, make sure to check out Chelsea’s blog. It’s incredibly thorough and you’ll find plenty of other useful tips for moving to London and the UK.

Related Guide: The cost of living in Berlin is certainly cheaper than London. But the cost of living in Germany (including Berlin) is rising rapidly. Don’t worry though – there are easy ways you can cut down costs without sacrificing quality of life. Check out our How To Save Money in Germany guide for 14 easy tips to reduce your cost of living.

2. Corporate vs Freelancer Community

Now, this factor may or may not be relevant for you depending on the type of work you do. But if you’re planning to incubate your own start-up or try freelancing instead of working a corporate job, this is an important factor to consider before moving to London vs Berlin.

Ease of Finding a Corporate Job Living in London vs Berlin

There’s no doubt that it’s much easier to find a corporate job in London vs Berlin. This is especially true for English speakers who aren’t fluent in the German language.

Most corporate jobs in Berlin require fluency in both English and German. There are only very few positions where no German is required and it’s usually within the IT, web development, and programming space. Otherwise, it’s pretty challenging trying to find a job in Berlin without strong German language skills.

Moving to Berlin? Get a head start on learning German with these 22 fun and FREE ways to learn the German language online from home.

Start-Ups and Freelancing in London vs Berlin

On the other hand, if you’re planning to launch your own start-up or work as a freelancer, then Berlin will be the better choice than London.

Especially after Brexit and Britain leaves the EU.

The cost of living in London vs Berlin plays a big part of course, but the supportive community and free-thinking mindset are equally as important.

a couple taking a selfie in front of buckingham palace whilst living in london

You’ll find a diverse community of freelancers in Berlin. From artists, musicians, videographers to web developers, digital marketers, and bloggers (like us).

We love the fact that living in Berlin allows us to be surrounded by so many like-minded individuals who are finding ways to turn their passion into a career.

Following your dreams and turning them into reality isn’t easy. That’s why it’s so important to be surrounded by others who are doing the same.

Plus, it helps that there are no negative connotations when you say you work as a freelancer in Berlin and don’t follow the social norm of working for a corporate to earn a living.

This is Berlin after all – the city where you can just be you.

And lastly, we love that people living in Berlin and Germany in general, make a conscious effort to support freelancers and other small to medium size businesses rather than your large corporates.

3. Eco-Friendly City: Berlin vs London

If living more sustainably and as eco-friendly as possible is important to you, then you should definitely consider moving to Berlin vs London. Berlin is hands-down, a much more environmentally friendly city than London.

Not only is there a much bigger focus on using less plastic and creating less waste in Germany vs the UK. There are also more pro-green initiatives here.

Initiatives to Reduce Waste and Recycle

One of these eco-friendly initiatives is the deposit (or ‘pfand’ in German) system here in Berlin and the rest of Germany. Consumers are charged an additional deposit amount of €0.25 or €0.50 for each bottled or canned drinks you buy.

This deposit amount is then returned back to you when you bring plastic or glass bottles and canned drinks back to the store.

This ‘pfand’ system also works at German Christmas Markets . All drinks and even some food are served in ceramic mugs or on glass plates. You get charged an additional €2 to €4 as a deposit but get the money back when you return these items.

This significantly reduces the amount of waste produced by single-use items. Awesome, right?

christmas market mug get berlin's gendarmenmarkt christmas market

Plus, all households living in Germany are legally required to separate and sort their waste.

This is why Germany has a high recycling rate of 67% for household waste, compared to only 45% in the UK.

Seasonal Produce

Another eco-friendly initiative that you should consider before moving to Berlin vs London, is that supermarkets and grocery stores in Germany tend to sell more seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Although at times it can be annoying to not be able to make your favourite asparagus dish during winter in Germany. We feel that the small sacrifice is worth it if it means that buying more sustainable and seasonal fresh produce will benefit the environment.

Whereas if you were living in London and the UK, you could buy almost any fruit and vegetable regardless of the season.

Convenient, yes – sustainable, no.

4. Ease of Travel

If you’re self-diagnosed travel addicts like we are, then the ease of travel will play a huge factor in whether you decide to live in Berlin vs London.

London may have 5 airports vs Berlin’s lonely 1. But after Brexit when British nationals will no longer enjoy the freedom of movement across Europe, it will probably be much easier to travel and elope on last-minute adventures from Berlin than London.

Especially since Berlin has its own international airport now (finally!). We’ll miss Tegel, but we won’t miss the internal flights we had to take to Helsinki, Frankfurt or Munich to travel abroad.

expats at victory memorial in london contemplating whether to move to berlin vs london

The same can be said if you’re an avid lover of road trips. Whether you love self-driving trips or traveling by train, you’ll have way more choice when it comes to travel destinations if you’re moving to Berlin vs London.

From London, you can explore the rest of the UK as well as Wales and Scotland by train or by car. But from Berlin, you can effortlessly spend a weekend in Prague or take a 5 hour train to Amsterdam to see the world-famous Dutch windmills in Kinderdijk .

And that’s not even counting the neighbouring countries you can easily pop over and visit from Berlin like Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, and the Czech Republic.

5. Child and Family-Friendly City

Whether you’re planning to have human or fur babies, Berlin wins vs London in terms of being more family-friendly.

Besides having tons of green space, parks and children’s play areas, Germany also offers better financial and social support than the UK if you plan on having kids (only human kids, unfortunately).

In Berlin and the rest of Germany, both maternity and paternity leave are officially recognized. And each parent can take up to 3 years of parental leave per child until that child reaches the age of 3 years old.

That’s why it’s quite common to see fathers actively involved with raising their children in Berlin.

In comparison, London and the UK only officially approve maternity leave for up to 1 year and paternity leave for 1 to 2 weeks!

Employers in Berlin are also very accommodating in negotiating more flexible work hours than they are in London, whether you have children or not.

And if that wasn’t awesome enough, you’re also entitled to a child benefit or allowance (referred to as ‘Kindergeld’ in German) of up to €204 to €235 per child per month, up until the child reaches the age of 18 in Germany.

This is in comparison to the £84 (or €95) you’ll receive as child benefits per month if you had a child in the UK.

Save Me For Later

pinterest save image comparing pros and cons for moving to london vs berlin

6. Commute and Travel Time

We’ve got good news if you hate commuting. The average commute and travel time in Berlin is 30 to 40 minutes to reach the city center (by bike and train). Whereas in London, you could easily spend 60 to 90 minutes commuting to the city center each way!

Now we don’t know about you. But we could put that extra 2 to 3 hours a day to some good use. Whether that be to get some extra sleep or brainstorming ideas for another exciting expat guide!

And if you do opt to drive instead, there are no extra taxes or ‘Congestion Charges’ to be paid if you’re driving in the city centre of Berlin.

We know we’re starting to sound extremely biased towards moving to Berlin vs London, but facts don’t lie.

7. Population Density Living in London vs Berlin

London is almost twice the size of Berlin but with about 3 times the population. Maybe that explains why London has that unique, high-energy buzzing vibe that is often not felt in Berlin.

According to Versus, there’s an average of 5,518 people per square kilometer living in London vs Berlin’s 3,900 people per square kilometer. And that’s if you exclude the horde of tourists that visit London every year!

Add the 30 million tourists that visit London every year and it’s easy to see why London feels crowded.

Berlin, in comparison, attracts around 14 million visitors every year and is the third most visited European destination after London and Paris.

london's unique, upbeat vibe is something to consider when deciding between moving to london vs berlin

This one’s totally up to your personal preference. We love London’s unique upbeat vibe. But the con is that at times it can cross the line and feel stressful instead.

Berlin, on the other hand, feels way more laid back. The pros are that life feels less stressful and more relaxed in Berlin. But the cons are that it can feel less lively and exciting vs London.

8. The Language Barrier

Our pros and cons for moving to London vs Berlin wouldn’t be complete (or honest) if we didn’t mention the language barrier.

And yes, there will be a language barrier if you’re planning on living in Berlin. It’s a common mistake to believe that Berlin being the cosmopolitan city that it is, that you could easily get by without knowing any German at all.

But after living here for almost 18 months, we can tell you from personal experience that that is not true.

Whether you’re looking for a job, finding an apartment, registering your residential address and getting ‘Anmeldung’ in Germany , or even buying groceries, you’ll need some basic level of the German language to live here.

The language barrier is probably the biggest con you should consider when deciding between moving to London vs Berlin.

We prepared ourselves for our move to Berlin by learning the basics on Duolingo. If you’re curious to know how effective our 4-month Duolingo experiment was. We’ve shared our personal experience on whether Duolingo is good for learning German in another guide.

9. The Weather

Europeans and Brits love to talk about the weather! Now we know why. The summers are short but unforgettable. And the winters… Well, let’s just say that no one ever says they’re moving abroad for the winters in Berlin or London.

So if the weather is one of the deciding factors you’re considering for living in London vs Berlin. Look no further, because they’re pretty similar.

The average difference between the maximum and minimum temperatures between Berlin and London is only around 2 degrees Celcius.

Both cities have warm, amazing summers with long hours of daylight. And winter is the exact opposite. It’s cold, often grey and the sun hides behind a curtain of clouds most of the time.

The only saving grace for Berlin is that the chances of snow are higher in Berlin vs London.

an expat couple standing on the roof of reichstag parlimentary building in berlin with glass dome in the background

10. Recreation and Things To Do

When it comes to recreation and things to do, you’ll be spoilt for choice whether you live in Berlin or London.

Like the Brits would put it, ‘It all depends on your cup of tea’. So basically it boils down to personal preferences.

Eating and Dining out

For dining out, London is better. It’s more expensive but you get a lot more choice. You can easily satisfy those tastebuds with the diverse and authentic range of cuisines you can find in London.

Dining out in Berlin isn’t bad either. But it’s quite hard to find traditionally spicy dishes if you love Indian, Mexican or Asian food. Most restaurants dial down the heat to suit the German palette.

Museums and Attractions

You’ve probably heard of Berlin’s famous Museum Island if you’re a serious museum lover. But even Berlin’s 175 museums can’t beat the 240 museums you’ll find in London.

And the best part? Most of the museums in London are free to visit, whereas that’s not the case in Berlin.

museum island and the famous berliner dom in the city center of berlin germany

Luckily, it’s quite affordable to visit any of the museums or tourist attractions in Berlin. The same cannot be said if you want to visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in London.

Theatres and Shows

If you love watching live theatres and shows, then you’ll absolutely love Berlin.

Berlin has 140 theatres compared to London’s 104. No wonder so many artists, musicians and performers are attracted to this vibrant city.

expats living in berlin watch the vivid grand show at friedrichstadt palast theatre

Street Festivals

Both London and Berlin have some of the world’s best street festivals. The type of festivals hosted in each city is quite different, but they do share one in common: Pride Celebration or otherwise known as Christopher Street Day (CSD).

It’s one of our all-time favourite festivals in Berlin and celebrated every year in July.

crowds of people attending christopher street day or berlin pride at kurfürstendamm

Another memorable street festival held in Berlin, is The Festival of Lights.

It’s an annual event that takes place every year from September to October where the major landmarks and buildings in Berlin are illuminated in a spectacular show of lights.

festival of lights in berlin with facade of berliner dom lit up in many colours

London vs Berlin, who wins in terms of nightlife? Well, that’s hard to say. Both cities have awesome nightlife but if you love techno, then Berlin is the city to be.

We have yet to experience our first techno party for ourselves. But we’ve heard that it’s quite common to go clubbing on a Friday and only leave on a Sunday.

We don’t know if we have the stamina for that. But there’s always a ‘späti’ (or late night shop in German) open where you can hang out and meet new people.

group of expats sitting around a wooden table outside a late shop or späti in berlin

11. Cultural Differences Living in London vs Berlin

Both London and Berlin are cosmopolitan cities, but there are some big cultural differences between the two capitals.

The biggest cultural difference (in our opinion, of course) is the ‘live to work’ culture in London vs Berlin’s ‘work to live’ mentality. You can easily feel it by the way people dress and even the pace at which they walk.

It’s not uncommon to see someone enjoying a beer at 10AM on a Monday morning in Berlin. Whereas you’d probably get a lot of stares and even some envious looks if you were to do the same in London.

We don’t blame you Londoners. We would also ‘live to work’ with the eye-watering cost of living in London.

And if you thought Londoners are straight forward and direct, it’s even more so in Berlin. The practice of ‘no small talk’ is actually part of the German culture.

And let’s not forget the other ‘quirks’ of German culture, like how public nudity is natural and normal, their love for hiking and the great outdoors and that family comes before anything else.

Related Guide: Want to know more about German culture? Find out more in our Culture Shock Renting in Germany guide.

12. Quality of Life

We’ve looked at the many pros and cons of living in London vs Berlin and it all boils down to this: it’s much easier to have a higher quality of life living in Berlin than London.

The cost of living is lower, the lifestyle is less stressful and more relaxed and it’s a great city whether you’re single or looking to start a family.

The only hurdle: the language barrier. But once you get that right, you’ll probably love the city as much as we do.

Curious to know more on what’s life like living in Berlin? Read our 21 Living in Berlin Pros and Cons guide to find out whether the city is right for you.

Moving to Berlin, Germany

Planning to move abroad? We’ve written plenty of Moving to Germany guides to help you.

From how you can easily open a German bank account without Anmeldung , to what it’s like to visit Berlin during the coronavirus pandemic .

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Five stars for Berliner Philharmoniker’s Bruckner under Kirill Petrenko — Proms review

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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

Teasing is not the first word that comes to mind when thinking of Robert Schumann. But in Schumann’s Piano Concerto in Prom 55 at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday night, soloist Víkingur Ólafsson delivered a lively, playful conversation with the Berliner Philharmoniker under Kirill Petrenko. Styles contrasted notably: the oboe opened with a lyrical motif and Ólafsson responded with almost jazzy phrasing. You were never quite sure when his fingers would land, rhythms off the precise beat, a fraction of a second saved here and spent there. But it was not hesitant: the control was full, even if Ólafsson occasionally seemed surprised by his own playing.

It is no insult to the rest of the programme to say that Ólafsson’s encore was a highlight: a transcription of the adagio from Bach’s Fourth Organ Sonata, the serene simple motif soft before swelling with force. It felt in some way life-saving or proof of something beyond him and us.

A young man in a suit and tie looks up ecstatically with his eyes closed as he plays a grand piano

If Petrenko had been retiring in the Schumann, he was in theatrical flow for Smetana’s epic tone poem Má vlast ( My Fatherland ), brought out for the composer’s bicentenary. A desire for a Czech homeland, its six parts tell of national myths and beloved geographical features, such as the Vltava river, whose swirling, flowing melody is the cycle’s best-known part. Petrenko fluidly shepherded the orchestra from the opening bardic harps to the thundering trombones with their insurgent motif harvested from a Czech chorale.

The Berliners’ performance was coherently conceived but — and this is the work’s fault, not Petrenko’s — failed to sustain interest at 75 minutes, perhaps among the players too. There must have been even Czech nationalists in the late 19th century who heard Má vlast and thought: bit much. ★★★★☆

Four women in black dresses stand holding scores and singing in front of two men in black suits doing the same

By contrast, the Berliners the next night gave a longer work still — the 85 minutes of Bruckner’s Fifth Symphony — which did not let your interest drop for a second. As a crystalline prelude, the BBC Singers under Owain Park performed three motets, mixing Wagner and Gregorian chanting, by Bruckner (who is also 200 this year).

The symphony’s first movement opens with an unlikely sequence of three distinct musical ideas and, rather than melding them into one, stops and starts, reverses and folds in on itself, shuffling the motifs to the fore. This strategy continues throughout, whether with the abrupt shifts of Austrian folk-dance melodies in the scherzo or the intricate fugal work of the finale. Petrenko’s triumph was making the work’s logic and architecture clear while enhancing its mysteries, its direct access to a brain thinking unlike any of ours. The not-so-slow second movement, which can tend to the desolate, was here grave but full of life.

So much in the Fifth is dependent on the brass, and the Berliners were immaculate: each voice came through distinctly, which can be hard when you’re thundering out a chorale and competing with hurrying strings. As the symphony progressed, Petrenko darted about his podium, swinging his arms wide, and he seemed to be enjoying himself. We certainly were. ★★★★★

To September 14, bbc.co.uk/proms

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Berlin Vs London

The main difference between Berlin and London is their unique historical and cultural backgrounds, with Berlin's population shaped by post-war resilience and modernity. At the same time, London's identity is intertwined with its historical imperial past. Culturally, Berlin is known for its avant-garde art scene, while London offers a mix of tradition and cosmopolitanism. Additionally, Berlin tends to be more affordable than London regarding living costs.

How well can I survive? – a comparison and insight

Berlin and London are on top of everyone's list based on the standard of living. Still, it calls for a different reassessment when you discover that €20,000 would make you live luxuriously in Berlin while you would struggle to live a shared life with it in London.

It also hits when you find out that you might earn twice as much in London as another professional doing the same work in Berlin.

These are two distinct objections, and many more elements make it challenging to determine which cities are superior and more suitable for living or visiting.

Here, we will shed more light, provide an overview of what you need to know about both capitals and compare their similarities and differences.

Follow through. This is Berlin vs. London!

Main Difference

Living in Berlin is as enjoyable as living in London but differs in many aspects. First is the size. You might start asking yourself. Is Berlin bigger than London? The answer is no. Not even close!

Berlin, considered the largest city in Germany, is approximately twice as small as London. Let's make it simple. London has a landmass of 1.572km² while Berlin has a continent of 891.8km². The same goes for the population. London has about 9.5 million people compared to Berlin's population of 3.5 million residents. What this means for you is that there is less competition for services in Berlin than in London, and you will find it easy to get a parking space for your car without having to fork over excessive fees and taxes.

Here is another one. The quality of life in London is way higher than in Berlin. London is the best city in the world based on an overall measurement standard, and Berlin ranks as the 31st best city below it. Generally, it is easier to live in Berlin than in London, but it is all fair on both sides.

Language is another significant difference between the two metropolises. While both are in European countries, London is a fully English-speaking city, and Berlin is a Deutsch-speaking region. Berlin's population is more bilingual, as you will also see its residents with a knowledge of English. Every interface is presented in English and Deutsch for easy accessibility by indigen and tourists.

Cost of living in Berlin Vs. London

As mentioned earlier, life in London might seem like a nightmare to an average Berliner and, indeed, to all expats. The cost of living includes housing costs, feeding costs, electricity bills, internet, heat, travel costs, transportation, and groceries. If you earn circa €25 000 wages, you might have to share residents with others.

A shared 2-bedroom apartment might cost €2,500 / week, while you can own a full one in Berlin at a rate of €1,500 / month. To cut costs, you would have to care less about the quality or class of such houses and consider proximity to your place of work so you won't have to pay for the cut in transportation. It is, however, possible to get a decent place to stay at a low cost in London, but these are mostly neglected households by the big fish of the city, which is very rare.

In London, It is advisable to only think of a luxurious life or a holiday if you are on 50,000 wages. As an average resident, subsidizing most of your expenses might be the best bet. Limit the number of dates you go, and resort to more cooking than going to the restaurant. All are relatively expensive in London except for healthcare accessible to all English residents.

Berlin, on the other hand, is more affordable. If you earn, it doesn't involve many tricks to live fine and comfortably. As a typical resident, you can go on several dates and take as many vacations as you want without fear of being penalized in another element of your life. Grocery is cheap, and health insurance doesn't cost havens. However, transportation may be expensive, so getting a bike or bicycle for most short trips is advisable.

Regarding transport safety, both cities are well organized and free from accidents. Naturally, they both enjoy low crime rates, but as with every other metropolis, you must be aware of the rudimentary safety precautions of residence. It's best to avoid staying out too late because it often attracts risky behaviors, but the nightlife of both regions is well protected. There are surveillance cameras at all corners, which helps reduce crime and aid in quick apprehending if any occurs. Both cities have no such thing as no-go zones, as all suburbs are well guarded by security authorities.

The weather

Do you think London is cold? Berlin is colder!

Both fall under the same climatic zone, but there is a slight difference in the weather conditions they experience. Overall, the experience is comfortable, primarily cold and mild temperatures all year round, with a little extremity experienced in January.

The weather in July is the hottest for both, and it can also be snowy from December to March in Berlin. The explicit presence of water in some parts of the city makes it windy and a little cloudy at times, but you will surely enjoy the shiny time, especially if you choose to feel the moment while sunbathing.

Culture and Travel places

Culture is essential in modern metropolises, and both cities have its abundance. Berlin and London are merry zones in Europe. They are a calm and modest province with a colorful landscape and they keep a diverse cultural environment.

London's lifestyle is its culture. The way of life is its careful choice of words, language, food, table manners, music, relationships, museums, and carnivals. London's historical background and ability to rise quickly after a fall makes it one of the most vibrant cultural cities in the world. As for travel places, Seeing the most iconic locations is much cheaper than getting a pint of beer. You can visit the Vicotria and Albert Museum, the National Gallery, the British Museum, and Tate Modern and see some assemblage arts and artifacts.

Many consider London the capital of the cultural world, but Berlin makes that position extremely difficult to maintain. Berlin's population has numerous history and lively cultures that make it fascinating to live there. The fact that people act like nothing has happened while you are doing the weirdest stuff is a trademark in Berlin. The fun part is most of it is street festivals and entertaining nightlife. There are also many places to visit on a Hop-on-Hop-off bus tour, which include various bars, the Old Brewery, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island, to name a few.

Nature and Outdoors

Nature promotes relaxation in both cities. Berlin's outdoor activities particularly tend to grow better daily with no chance of ceasing. The landscape and some geographic elements, such as mountains, also support many unusual sports to become popular in the district. If you are great at cycling, hockey, hiking, skiing, climbing mountains, and playing tennis, you are a good fit for their sports life.

There are many parks and nature centers to visit to feel nature and wildlife. A few notable are Tiergarten in Berlin, St. James Park in London, Mmauerpart In Berlin, and Kensington Gardens in London.

Cooperate and Freelance Opportunity

From the books, London recorded having more freelance jobs than all other major cities in the U.K. This may be because of the employment and work structure of the region. Similarly, the advent of the pandemic has made Berlin a flourishing ground for work-from-home opportunities.

Berlin and London have a diverse economic structure, making them central hubs for many world industries to thrive.

If looking to work, the job market is most massive in London. It is competitive amongst Berlin's population. You can work in finance, engineering, manufacturing, distribution, travel, electronics, advertisement, healthcare, property, and transportation, and many more are upcoming to explore in every sector.

Getting a desired job is likewise a relatively easy nut. All you need to do is make the internet your friend and have a piece of good networking knowledge. You should rebuild your CV and make that resume look more attractive. It is a smooth road to get there. All you need to do is invest patience to find the perfect fit.

Child and Family-friendly city

Berlin and London recognize the rights and protection of children, and they both provide a supportive environment for adequate child growth. In London, there are significant collaborations with many agencies, set-up teams, and programs for children and families' healthy living. One is to contact the family and a 'worried about a child' support scheme.

Berlin also extends the scope through grants, child benefits, family education, and counseling.

Population Density Living in London Vs Berlin

The population density of London is 5,596 people per square kilometer, and Berlin's population is 4,127 per square kilometer.

The advantages of this which Berlin has over London are:

Lesser competition
Lesser chaos
Better flow of traffic
Lesser queue

And a lesser chance of your wallet missing from your back pocket.

Do you want to move?

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Elizabeth line suspended between Heathrow Terminals after track fault

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Passengers on the Elizabeth line on the London Tube.

The evening rush hour has been hit by more chaos after the Elizabeth line was suspended between Heathrow Terminals.

Travellers between the Heathrow Terminals were warned of possible delays and cancellations after trains could not run through T4.

The disruption on Elizabeth line services and Heathrow Express is expected to last until about 10pm, National Rail warned. Trains could be delayed by up to 30 minutes, it said.

Meanwhile, drivers have to navigate heavy congestion in both directions on the M25 near Heathrow Airport . Traffic is particularly heavy between junctions J13 and J14.

17h ago Rotherhithe Tunnel closes suddenly in both directions
19h ago Third day of Gatwick disruption
22h ago Elizabeth line trains cancelled and delayed

Wizz Air reveals new long-haul route from Gatwick

The budget airline has announced a new route from Gatwick to the Middle East launching next year – with single tickets starting from around £134.

Update on the London Underground

Here is a recap of what travel on the Tube is like currently.

Elizabeth line – No service between Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3 and Terminal 4 due to a track fault at T4
Overground – Severe delays between New Cross Gate and West Croydon and Crystal Palace due to a faulty train at Forest Hill, while the rest of the line has good service
Victoria line – Severe delays on the entire line due to a signal failure at Green Park
Central line – Minor delays due to an earlier signal failure
Northern line – Minor delays between Camden Town and Kennington (via Bank) southbound after an earlier customer incident

Why Rotherhithe Tunnel was closed today

The Rotherhithe Tunnel was closed for hours in both directions today after an issue with the fire safety system.

Here is a full statement from TfL: ‘The Rotherhithe Tunnel has now re-opened and we apologise for the disruption caused by its closure.

‘This was due to an issue that had been identified with the tunnel’s fire safety system, which has now been fixed.

‘We reopened the tunnel as soon as it was safe to do so and we would like to thank people travelling in the area for their patience during the closure.’

Delays on the M25 after crash in Essex

Congestion is building up on the M25 near Thurrock Services (Picture: Highways England)

If you’re travelling on the M25 in Essex tonight, prepare for rush hour delays.

Traffic is building up on the clockwise carriageway on the M25 between junctions J29 (A127) and J30 (A13 Lakeside/Purfleet) after a crash.

The incident is expected to clear by 6.30pm, National Highways said in an alert.

The crash site is located around five miles north of Dartford Crossing and near Thurrock Services.

Rotherhithe Tunnel remains closed

The Rotherhithe Tunnel remains shut in both directions due to ‘technical problems.’

The closure could push traffic onto the nearest available crossings such as Blackwall Tunnel and Tower Bridge.

Traffic service Inrix shows heavy congestion at Blackwall Tunnel this afternoon reaching into Poplar and East Greenwich.

On Tower Bridge, drivers were warned of delays due to a crash which is expected to cause delays until about 4pm.

Disruption on trains between Warrington and Manchester

It could be a difficult commute for passengers between Manchester, Liverpool and Warrington after an incident closed all lines between the stations.

All lines have been closed after an emergency incident between Warrington Central and Manchester Oxford Road.

Trains could be cancelled, delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised, with disruption expected to last until 5pm.

East Midlands Railway, Northern and TransPennine Express trains are affected.

Here are all the routes that are facing delays and cancellations.

East Midlands Railway between Liverpool Lime Street and Nottingham / Norwich
Northern between Liverpool Lime Street / Warrington Central and Manchester Oxford Road
TransPennine Express between Liverpool Lime Street and Cleethorpes

National Rail told passengers to check with the live journey planner before travelling.

It is also worth keeping hold of tickets and making note of journey times if your trip is disrupted as you might be entitled to compensation.

Severe delays on the Metropolitan line

Passengers at the far end of the Metropolitan line in zone 9 are facing delays after an obstruction on the track.

TfL warned of severe delays between Moor Park, Hertfordshire, and Chesham, Buckinghamshire, due to the obstruction.

The next departure from Chesham Tube station will be at about 2.30pm, the latest TfL alert said.

The rest of the line and the TfL network has good service.

Rotherhithe Tunnel closes suddenly in both directions

Cars going in and out of the Rotherhithe Tunnel in London on a sunny day.

Motorists wanting to cross the River Thames through the busy tunnel have been forced to look for alternative routes after Rotherhithe Tunnel closed suddenly.

It is due to ‘technical problems’ on the A101 which has closed the tunnel in both directions between Rotherhithe and Limehouse, traffic analyst Inrix says.

This means nearby crossings like Tower Bridge and Blackwall Tunel could be busier than usual with spillover traffic.

We approached TfL for a comment.

Rotherhithe Tunnel – opened in 1908 – is one of the very few tunnels where pedestrians, cyclists and motorists share the same tunnel.

Broken down train blocks lines between Newbury and Westbury

Great Western Railway passengers are facing the major hurdle of a broken down freight train this morning.

The train is currently blocking some lines towards Newbury, meaning trains through this station and Westbury, near Bristol, may be cancelled or delayed.

If you can’t go around you, you can’t go through it and you can’t go over it, you’ll have to get a taxi to shuttle you around it.

GWR said: ‘Taxis are being sourced to run a shuttle service between Newbury, Kintbury, Hungerford, Bedwyn and Pewsey.

‘Disruption is expected until 12:00.’

No trains between Sevenoaks and London

It’s taking longer than planned to fix a faulty track at Petts Wood.

Major disruption was expected to last until 1pm anyway, but it was hoped trains would resume from 10.30am, albeit with delays.

That’s been pushed back to midday for Southeastern services, despite Thameslink trains running again between Orpington and West Hampstead Thameslink / Luton.

Southeastern said: ‘Unfortunately the work is taking longer than expected and the engineers had to extend the estimated time of completion.’

Third day of Gatwick disruption

Passengers wait in the check-in area of Gatwick Airport as some flights are cancelled or delayed.

If you were hoping for a cheeky getaway free from the stress of a summer holiday travel, think again.

You might find yourself waiting an average of 37 minutes for your flight to depart if you’re flying from Gatwick Airport.

Some 95% of flights scheduled to leave before 9am this morning were delayed, according to analysis of data from FlightRadar24.

This brings the ongoing disruption into a third day, with Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary continuing his calls for the head of air traffic control to step down.

Cancellations hit Thameslink and Southeastern after track fault in London

Urgent repairs are underway after a track fault was found during an inspection at Petts Wood, southeast London.

Severe disruption will continue until it is fixed, with 40-minute delays and cancellations until 1pm.

Trains may terminate at an earlier stop.

Thameslink services between Orpington and West Hampstead Thameslink / Luton are affected.

Southeastern is also affected between Dover Priory / Ramsgate / Faversham / Ashford International / Hastings and London Cannon Street / London Charing Cross, and between Sandwich / Faversham / Ore / Tunbridge Wells and London Charing Cross, and also between Tonbridge and London Cannon Street.

Hour-long delays on M1 as collision closes lanes

Drivers heading north face 60-minute delays due to a collision along the M1 in West Yorkshire.

This has closed two of five northbound lanes between J41 at Wakefield and J42 at Lofthouse.

One of four southbound lanes are also closed, causing 20-minute delays in this direction, National Highways said.

Police, fire and ambulance services are on the scene.

Police incident shuts A50 in both directions

Staffordshire Police has closed off the A50 in both directions amid an incident they are investigating.

Delays of at least 45 minutes are being reported as traffic is piling up near the scene.

National Highways warned that the major trunk road linking Warrington and Leicester is shut in both directions at the Heron Cross junction.

Traffic monitoring system Inrix issued an alert, saying: ‘A50 in both directions closed, queueing traffic due to police incident from B5490 Stanley Matthews Way (Stadium Junction) to A5007 Victoria Place Link (Heron Cross/Fenton).

‘Congestion to Alhambra Interchange. Traffic can re-join using the slip roads.’

A live map from National Highways shows that traffic is currently queueing back to Meir, Stoke-on-Trent.

No further details on this morning’s incident have been released by police.

Elizabeth line trains cancelled and delayed

Disruptions have been reported on Elizabeth Line services this morning.

A fault with the signalling system at Ealing Broadway means trains have to run at reduced speed on some lines.

As a result, services may be cancelled, delayed by up to 20 minutes or revised.

Routes between Abbey Wood and Heathrow Terminal 4 / Maidenhead / Reading, also between Shenfield and Heathrow Terminal 5, have all been affected.

Disruption is expected until at least 9am, so people are being urged to check the latest information before they travel.

Good morning

Good morning from the Metro news team.

It is just past 6.30am and delays have already been reported on several Tube lines.

This is everything you need to know about travel on the London Underground this morning:

Circle Line – severe delays have been reported due to the late finish of engineering work at Tower Hill
Hammersmith & City Line – minor delays have been reported due to the late finish of engineering work at Tower Hill
Metropolitan Line – there are minor delays following the late finish of engineering work at Harrow-on-the-Hill
There is good service on all other lines

MORE : Wizz Air reveals new £134 flight from Gatwick to the Middle East

MORE : Popular Greek islands set to launch £17 visitor tax to combat overtourism

MORE : British tourist killed after ‘losing control’ of motorbike in Thailand

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Norse Atlantic Airways Flash Sale Offers $99 One-Way Tickets To London And Berlin

The Norse Atlantic Airways' "September Sale" applies discounted ticket fare for from October 1 through June 15, 2025.

Natasha Decker • Sep 10, 2024

Norse Atlantic Airways Boeing 787-9 aircraft

Don’t miss your chance at scoring affordable air travel with Norse Atlantic Airways for a fall, winter, or springtime European getaway.

The low-cost airline’s “September Sale” applies discounted ticket fares for flights from October 1 through June 15, 2025. The affordable routes fly out in the United States from New York, Miami, Orlando, and Los Angeles. As of this reporting, the epic deal includes $99 flights from New York to London or Berlin, or Miami to Berlin. Other cheap deals — ranging in price under $165 — go from U.S. city hubs to Athens, Paris, and Rome.

You’ll know when you’re viewing a sale fare when you book on the carrier’s website and see a yellow sparkle on the left-hand corner of a date on the calendar. Digging is definitely worth it. For example, Travel Noire spotted $88 one-way routes from New York to London in February 2025, which Norse didn’t advertise on its homepage. Keep in mind that some travel periods are exempt from sale prices.

The discounted rates are for travel in Norse’s Economy Light. The cabin fare guarantees a personal item and a carry-on . There’s also date change flexibility for $200 per flight if needed.

The sale started September 4 and ends September 13 at 6 a.m. Central European Time, or when the sale fares sell out.

Why Shop The September Sale And Fly Norse Atlantic Airways?

In addition to the September Sale, air travel is even more accessible via the “explore now, pay later” option. Via the month-to-month payment plan, flyers can incrementally pay for their travels instead of doling out the total sum at once.

In a statement, Norse’s Chief Commercial Officer, Bård Nordhagen, highlighted the September Sale and another recent carrier move.

“We’re excited to launch our September global flight sale, offering travelers the chance to explore the world at exceptional fares,” said Nordhagen, according to Cision. “And to make your journey even better, we’re pleased to announce that all Economy Light tickets now come with a 10kg cabin bag included, at no extra cost. At Norse Atlantic Airways, we’re always looking for ways to enhance your travel experience, and this sale is the perfect opportunity to plan your next adventure.”

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This Low-cost Airline Has Flights to London, Berlin, and More Starting at Just $99

The sale ends on Sept. 13.

Low-cost airline Norse Atlantic Airways is making European getaways affordable with one-way trips starting at just $99.

The sale , which must be booked by 12 a.m. ET on Sept. 13, is available for flights across Norse Atlantic’s network from New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Orlando, and more, the airline shared with Travel + Leisure . The sale, which is subject to availability, excludes travel from Dec. 14 through Jan. 8, 2024.

“It’s our desire to make travel affordable for all. We believe everyone should be able to travel in style and comfort at affordable prices,” Bård Nordhagen, the commercial director for Norse Atlantic Airways, said in a statement provided to T+L. “We are excited to announce our Global Sale, offering travelers an opportunity to get their holidays or business trips booked at amazing prices for a limited time only.”

Patrick Pleul/Getty Images

Travelers can fly from either Boston or Washington, D.C. to London starting at just $99 one-way. Travelers can also fly from New York to Oslo, from New York to London, from Miami to London, and from Orlando to London starting at just $129 one-way. Or for a bigger splurge, fly from New York to Berlin starting at just $175 one-way, or from Los Angeles all the way across the pond to London starting at just $179 one-way.

Eligible travel dates vary by destination.

The sale comes as Norse Atlantic announced a new route between Los Angeles and Paris, which the airline plans to launch next year. That new flight will operate six times each week.

It also comes on the heels of a new route between New York and Rome , which the airline launched in June.

Norse Atlantic was founded in 2021 and now operates a fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The airline offers travelers two cabin options: economy and premium, which features a 43 inch seat pitch.

I flew the UK's 2 major airlines across the Atlantic. Small touches and better food gave Virgin an edge.

I've flown on UK rivals British Airways and Virgin Atlantic Airways in long-haul economy.
Both airlines provided similar amenities and comparable fares, but I liked Virgin slightly more.
Virgin stands out with better food compared to the blander dishes on BA.

Thanks to my job, I've crisscrossed the Atlantic dozens of times on almost every mainline carrier. My most recent treks were in economy on UK-based rivals British Airways and Virgin Atlantic Airways .

Both long-haul airlines sport large networks connecting the US to London and beyond, and my home airport in New York City is particularly busy. BA has a bigger presence, but it and Virgin collectively fly at least a dozen nonstops daily on the popular NY-London corridor.

Fares and departure times are comparable from most airports where they compete and both airlines ranked in Skytrax's top 20 best airlines for 2024.

After comparing the two long-haul experiences , I found that they're both perfectly fine options with similar mainline amenities. But I'm partial to Virgin.

My BA and Virgin treks were daytime flights from New York to London.

I flew on BA for the first time in years in March of 2024 and on Virgin for the first time ever in July. BA flies out of a newly renovated Terminal 8 and Virgin flies out of Terminal 4.

Both flights left at around 8 a.m. from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and landed at London Heathrow around 9 p.m. local time. I prefer morning departures on Europe-bound trips because I can better battle the jet lag.

I paid about the same $600 fare on both BA and Virgin.

The two rival airlines are vying for customers, especially on the busy New York-London route, so it's no surprise they have similarly priced flights.

Looking at flights this fall, BA and Virgin are roughly $600-$700 roundtrip from NYC. The holiday period is more expensive, and I noticed Virgin's fares are slightly higher than BA's around Christmas.

Flights from other airports both airlines fly to, like Boston and Washington Dulles, have similar pricing patterns.

I could check in online before both flights.

I was happy to get my boarding pass on each airline's respective mobile app, meaning I could bypass the ticket counter if I didn't have bags.

This is unlike low-cost transatlantic competitor Norse Atlantic Airways , which requires passengers to check in at the airport and can be inconvenient for those with just a carry-on bag.

I appreciated Virgin's efficient bag drop.

Both BA and Virgin have self-serve kiosks at their check-in counters, meaning customers can get their boarding pass without seeing an agent. When I flew on BA, I only had a carry-on, so I went straight to security.

I had to check a bag on my Virgin flight, and I was happy to find that its luggage drop was also self-serve. I simply printed the bag tags from the kiosk, attached them to my luggage, and scanned them at the bag drop conveyor belt.

Economy passengers with Priority Pass can access Virgin's lounge.

BA's economy passengers can't access its new Terminal 8 co-branded lounges unless they have status, but those with Priority Pass — which isn't tied to airline loyalty — can visit Virgin's lounge in Terminal 4.

I have a membership through my Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card and can use it to visit eligible airport lounges — including those owned by airlines — with a coach ticket, though they are sometimes capacity-restricted at peak hours.

Virgin's New York-JFK lounge is small but comfortable, with à la carte food and a bar. The Priority Pass option in Terminal 8 offers meal credits at a restaurant, but it's unavailable via my Chase-sourced membership. Still, I'd rather have the lounge than the restaurant.

My face was scanned to board BA.

BA rolled out biometric testing at US airports in 2017; my London flight was the first time I experienced it. The technology matched my facial features to my stored passport image, allowing me to board by simply looking at a monitor before walking through the door.

According to BA, the facial recognition system speeds up boarding on long-haul flights by half the time.

I experienced each airline's latest economy cabins.

Virgin has invested billions of dollars to transform its fleet, including acquiring a dozen next-generation Airbus A350-1000s since 2019. I flew this particular jet for my trip, which the airline has introduced with upgraded business and economy-class cabins.

The British Airways aircraft I took to London was a Boeing 777 with similarly revamped coach seats — though this jet didn't have the airline's new Club Suite business class.

I was assigned a window seat on BA but paid extra for an aisle on Virgin.

Both BA and Virgin's regular economy seats offer 31 inches of pitch, while the extra legroom ones on BA offer 38 inches. Taller travelers may want the extra legroom seats, though the protruding exit door slightly obstructed the window seat in BA's exit row.

The standard legroom on Virgin was plenty of room for me, though I'll never say no to extra space when it's randomly assigned to me.

I also didn't have to worry about aisle access on BA because of the open space in front of the seats — but, typically, I pay extra for an aisle.

Both seats featured the regular bells and whistles of economy.

The economy seats were equally well-padded and featured power ports, solid tray tables, good recline, a seatback pocket, and an adjustable headrest — the latter is a necessity for me to sleep on airplanes.

Both sets of inflight entertainment had good movie options and a crisp screen with a flight map. Virgin's had an outside camera, too.

I liked the USB-C port offered on BA.

The screen on BA popped out from the seat.

This layout is only in the bulkhead and exit rows — though I prefer the regular seats, as I flew on Virgin, because the eye-level viewing angle is better.

Next time I fly BA, I'll pay extra for a standard legroom economy seat to get the normal screen. It'll also be slightly wider than the exit row because the armrest is stored on the seatback, not in the armrest.

Virgin's blanket and seatback pocket were better.

I got good linens on Virgin and BA, but the blanket on Virgin was made with unique wings that draped over my shoulders so it wouldn't easily fall off.

Further, Virgin's seatback pocket had two smaller ones attached. The exit row on BA had a small slot for the window passenger, as well as one for those in the middle section. Its regular seats each got a big pocket, but it didn't have the same organization as Virgin.

It's these small touches that make me like Virgin just a bit better.

I also preferred the food on Virgin.

Both flights left in the morning, and the breakfast sandwich on Virgin was much better than BA's unappetizing egg dish that had a plastic-like texture.

BA's did come with packaged goodies like muffins, a croissant, and yogurt that were perfectly good. I was happy there were a few filling sides I could enjoy.

Virgin got brownie points for serving an actual meal before landing — a chicken dish served with cheese, salad, and pudding — that was tasty and filling. BA's, by comparison, was just a tiny, bland pastry that left much to be desired.

WiFi wasn't free on either.

The WiFi costs money on both BA and Virgin. I went without on BA, but I paid the $3.95 for messaging on Virgin, which worked fine.

Airlines offering free internet across the Atlantic include JetBlue Airways and Delta Air Lines, the latter recently rolling it out on select international flights.

I'd recommend BA or Virgin for comfort, but the latter has a slight edge.

Virgin won me over for the food and small comfort details like the blanket and seatback pocket. I also like that I can access its lounge with a Priority Pass despite flying with an economy ticket and having no status.

I thought the BA flight was fine, too, since it checked the boxes of having a headrest and well-padded seats. I'd just bring my own food next time.

Nevertheless, travelers looking for a more elevated economy experience would likely appreciate Virgin's A350 over BA's 777.

There's also reliability to think about.

Besides cabin comfort, many travelers consider on-time performance when choosing which airline to fly.

BA doesn't have a great reputation for its reliability. In July, the Financial Times cited old technology and its ever-busy Heathrow hub as factors but noted the airline is revamping its operation in London and is improving its year-over-year on-time performance.

Virgin, by comparison, said its 2023 punctuality performance at Heathrow was " 10 points ahead of industry average." Further, UK Civil Aviation Authority data shows Virgin was the second-most punctual airline of 2023 and the "top-performing airline that flies internationally." It's a smaller airline than BA, which likely helps.

Nevertheless, both my BA and Virgin flights landed on time — but statistics say Virgin is your best bet to avoid disruptions.

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Berlin Vs. London: Best European Capitals
The Key Differences. One of the key differences between Berlin and London is the size. London is about twice the size of Berlin in the area but it has three times as many people living in it. There are about 9 million people in London, compared to a little over 3 million in Berlin. The population density is also much lower in Berlin, and you ...
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In the autumn, London often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun. London usually gets more rain in October than Berlin. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.
London or Berlin: Which European Capital is Right for You?
London is an expensive city to travel in. If you're trying to stick to a strict budget of less than $75 a day, you're going to really have to pay attention to what you're spending. However, it's an amazing city to visit. If you aren't super budget conscious or if you're planning on spending closer to $100-$200 a day (plus airfare ...
Berlin vs London: Which City Is Better For You?
Even though they're both big cities, the primary difference between Berlin and London is the size. There are three times as many people living in London as in Berlin, London being almost twice the size of Berlin. Berlin has a little over 3 million residents compared to London's 9+ million. It also has a significantly lower population density.
Berlin v London
And a night out in Berlin costs €61.92 or around £55, compared to £71.45 in London. Our survey also confirms that part-time work is a big thing here. Fewer Berliners work full-time than ...
Berlin VS London
Admittedly the national museums in London have free entry but everything else is pretty shocking. Berlin's most expensive sight by far is Madame Tussaud's and cost 19.90€, whereas the one in London costs 28.80 pounds. Compare that with 15€ for the day-ticket for Museum Island in Berlin and that includes two of Berlin's top museums.
London or Berlin-3 to 4 full days : r/travel
Also its cheaper compared to London. And if you dont like the feel of berlin in a day, go to prague which is close by (may be 4 hours). Thats a great point re Berlin being more versatile in location should you not be enjoying your time! And to add to that, Berlin is a huge city and there is a lot to see there.
Christmas and New Year's Trip: Berlin vs. London : r/Europetravel
Currently we are trying to decide whether to spend Christmas and New Year's in Berlin or London and are so torn because they both seem amazing. We would love to hear advice based on your opinions of the cities in general, considering overall cultural experience, as well as what the holiday season is like in each. We will have 7-8 days to spend.
London VS Berlin: The Ultimate Verdict
In fact, London is 33 percent made of green space, whereas Berlin is only 14.4 percent. In terms of lakes though, Berlin's Müggelsee, the city's largest lake, surely beat the crowded Hamstead Heath ponds. Culture and Things to do. This is a tough one. London offers a vast range of high-quality museums and cultural attraction.
Berlin VS London
Berlin goes back to the Middle Ages but apart from some churches nothing remains from then (few vestiges in any major German cities in fact because of wartime bombing) . London goes back to Roman times. It is also an amalgamation of villages..... You could ask this question on London forum too and see what they say! You won't get bored in either.
Berlin VS London
Admittedly the national museums in London have free entry but everything else is pretty shocking. Berlin's most expensive sight by far is Madame Tussaud's and cost 19.90€, whereas the one in London costs 28.80 pounds. Compare that with 15€ for the day-ticket for Museum Island in Berlin and that includes two of Berlin's top museums.
Living in London vs Berlin: 12 Pros & Cons of Moving Abroad
The pros are that life feels less stressful and more relaxed in Berlin. But the cons are that it can feel less lively and exciting vs London. 8. The Language Barrier. Our pros and cons for moving to London vs Berlin wouldn't be complete (or honest) if we didn't mention the language barrier.
Berlin VS London
Berlin goes back to the Middle Ages but apart from some churches nothing remains from then (few vestiges in any major German cities in fact because of wartime bombing) . London goes back to Roman times. It is also an amalgamation of villages..... You could ask this question on London forum too and see what they say! You won't get bored in either.
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But then, I planned a trip to London with the luxury Dublin-based travel company Adams & Butler, and it was almost as if I saw the city for the first time. I went with my pre-teen and teenaged ...
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Over two nights in London, the orchestra delivered lively Schumann, theatrical Smetana and Bruckner's gripping Fifth
London vs Berlin vs Stockholm : r/travel
Can't speak on Stockholm, but I've been to Berlin and London recently. If you're talking museums, I'd have to say London wins here with the National Gallery and the British Museum. Berlin has cool museums (Museum Island and Gemaldegalerie) but London has more world famous "masterpieces". Berlin is better if you're a WW2 or Cold War enthusiast ...
Berlin vs Paris vs Rome vs Amsterdam vs London
1. Re: Berlin vs Paris vs Rome vs Amsterdam vs London. 10 years ago. Let me start of by telling you I'm Dutch, so Amsterdam is going to carry less interest for me than the others. 1. Rome - The oldest city on the list and it has a different vibe than all the others. If you enjoy history, this is the place to go. 2.
Berlin Population vs London
Berlin, considered the largest city in Germany, is approximately twice as small as London. Let's make it simple. London has a landmass of 1.572km² while Berlin has a continent of 891.8km². The same goes for the population. London has about 9.5 million people compared to Berlin's population of 3.5 million residents.
What time is the presidential debate tonight? How to ...
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have agreed to face off for the first time in a live TV debate ahead of the US election. The US vice-president will go head-to-head against Trump after the former ...
RB Leipzig vs Union Berlin: Bundesliga
Follow live text commentary, score updates and match stats from RB Leipzig vs Union Berlin in the Bundesliga
8 Of The Best Vegan Restaurants In London
Popular vegan restaurant app, HappyCow selected London, a city with over 700 vegan restaurants, as the world's most vegan-friendly city in 2024, ahead of Berlin (No.2) and Barcelona (No.3). From ...
Berlin vs Paris vs Rome vs Amsterdam vs London
Decided for now to go to Istanbul and Rome in March 2014 since I would have to fly from one to the other. Think it would be better to visit Amsterdam, Paris and London on the same trip using the train systems since all 3 are relatively within a 5-6 hour ride.
Travel chaos as flights are cancelled at City and Heathrow airports
Live travel and transport updates on UK roads like M62 and M25, London Underground, rail and airports as weekend rush hour gets underway.
Norse Atlantic Airways Flash Sale Offers $99 One-Way ...
The affordable routes fly out in the United States from New York, Miami, Orlando, and Los Angeles. As of this reporting, the epic deal includes $99 flights from New York to London or Berlin, or Miami to Berlin. Other cheap deals — ranging in price under $165 — go from U.S. city hubs to Athens, Paris, and Rome.
London or Berlin for New year's eve? : r/Europetravel
Before the pandemic we did Christmas in Berlin (wonderful) and New Years in London (meh). Germany is great at Christmas time. I love the markets. We went to Christmas Eve midnight mass at the Berlin cathedral even though we're not Catholic and it as a beautiful spectacle. In my opinion, the best view of London festivities was on TV.
This Low-cost Airline Has Flights to London, Berlin, and More ...
The sale, which must be booked by 12 a.m. ET on Sept. 13, is available for flights across Norse Atlantic's network from New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Orlando, and more, the airline shared with ...
This Nature-Inspired Hotel Brand Leads The Market In ...
The bar at Dover Yard in 1 Hotel Mayfair London. 1 Hotels. From the Kitchen to Your Cocktail . What truly sets 1 Hotels apart is its comprehensive approach to sustainability.
Berlin vs Paris vs Rome vs Amsterdam vs London
16. Re: Berlin vs Paris vs Rome vs Amsterdam vs London. I'm debating between going to Istanbul and Rome or doing Amsterdam, Paris, London. With Istanbul and Rome I would use Turkish Airlines with Amsterdam, Paris and London it mainly depends on if I want to fly into Amsterdam first or London first.
Which is more artsy and exciting: Berlin or London? : r/solotravel
As a tourist i believe Berlin has more to offer, especially in terms of arts / events / variety of restaurants (plus its much cheaper than London). As an expat i was not a fan though. Both cities are worth visiting and experiencing and so is amsterdam. 5.
British Airways Vs Virgin Atlantic From NYC to London Compared
These are the BA and Virgin fares between New York-JFK and London Heathrow from December 19 to December 28. Google Flights The two rival airlines are vying for customers, especially on the busy ...