Welcoming over 20 million travelers per year, London’s incredible reputation never dims. The city beckons to visitors with its elegant Victorian buildings, historically-rich museums, and upbeat pop culture centers. However, London can be overcrowded and break your bank. So, if you are here looking for a more affordable lifestyle, or just a different vibe, these 12 alternatives to London are worth checking out.
TL;DR – Alternatives to London Summary
London is a bustling and large metropolitan with thriving art scene, world-class museums, and tons of things to do. However, London is undoubtedly expensive, both for living and traveling. Therefore, these alternatives to London allow travelers to spend less while experiencing a similar vibe to the English capital. Handpicked by our expert travelers, some of London’s alternatives include Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol, Amsterdam, Dublin, Berlin, Barcelona, and Milan. Also, we choose Boston as its American counterpart.
Alternatives to London – Summary
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Manchester, England
- Bristol, England
- Brighton, England
- Dublin, Ireland
- Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Berlin, Germany
- Barcelona, Spain
- Krakow, Poland
- Tallinn, Estonia
- Milan, Italy
- Boston, USA
1. Edinburgh, Scotland
Cloaked with both gloomy mystery and breathtaking beauty, Edinburgh has started to climb into travelers’ bucket list. The Scotland’s capital looks frozen in time, boasting romantic medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and elegant Gothic architecture. Aside from its centuries-old facade, Edinburgh is full of energy and creativity. TripLeader Mara, a travel-loving actress living in London, mentioned Edinburgh Festival Fringe as a must-see event. “It’s the biggest performing arts festival in the world. This city can rival London for the art scene,” she said.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Edinburgh has a great blend between the old and new similar to London. However, it is smaller and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to London
2. Manchester, England
Often referred to as the “Capital of the North,” Manchester is a dynamic and vibrant English city. It is known for its legendary music scene, being home to bands like Oasis and The Smith. Moreover, it is a top soccer city, home to world-class football clubs such as Manchester United and Manchester City.
Like London, Manchester features museums and sophisticated tourist attractions. While London tells the tale of Great Britain, Manchester boasts advancement in science and culture. The nightlife, arts, and food scenes are also worthy to check out. Even though Manchester is not the cheapest city in the UK, it can save you some cash for London-like metropolitan scene.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Generally more relaxed and laidback than London. It also has interesting museums and world-class stadiums
3. Bristol, England
Are you a young traveler looking for a city to travel to with your buddies? Head to Bristol, a spirited city tucked in southwestern England. Although Bristol does not have opulent Victorian-styled buildings like London, it shares a similar lively atmosphere. Also, Bristol has the iconic Cliffton Suspension Bridge, a Tower Bridge’s ‘dupe’ that features a beautiful scene of River Avon.
London attracts travelers from all ages, but Bristol fits the youngsters. It is home to quirky street artists, painters, and art-loving communities. The nightlife and music scene are unmissable, ranging from underground gigs to jazz bars. Moreover, Bristol has a strong emphasis on green living, making it great for sustainable travelers. It is one of the cities like London that you should consider.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Like London, Bristol is a city with character yet more laidback vibes. It has a lot of entertainment options for young travelers
4. Brighton, England
Located two-hour drive away from London, Brighton has been a popular day trip destination. The city sits by the sea and is lined with independent shops, vibrant community centers, and iconic landmarks including the Royal Pavilion. Brighton is an inclusive and free-spirited city, very welcoming LGBTQ community. Then, aside from being a day trip destination, Brighton rises as one of the best alternatives to London. It has a cafe culture and nightlife that can rival London.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Brighton is located only 47 miles away from London, yet it has a creative and nightlife scene similar to the capital.
5. Dublin, Ireland
“Dublin looks like London’s long-lost sister. It is vibrant and rich in history. The historical places are amazing, such as the Trinity College and Book of Kells. Total bucket list!” said TripLeader Oxana, a trip designer with 11 years of experience.
The Irish capital is known for its literary heritage, having produced writers like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde. Like London, it houses a myriad of Georgian architecture from the middle ages. Both cities also features a dynamic modern life that breathe along with medieval charms. Moreover, Dublin highlights its pub culture and the delicious Irish beer. Whether you enjoy history, nightlife, or the great outdoors, Dublin offers an exciting travel experience.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Dublin has a blend between the old and new like London. Other similarities include historical landmarks, nightlife, and a vibrant city life.
6. Amsterdam, the Netherlands
This capital of Netherlands stuns travelers with its storybook houses, sunlit canals, and world-class museums. It is home to friendly communities and car-free streets, allowing people to experience a relaxed lifestyle. Amsterdam invites travelers to delve into art and history through its impressive museums, like Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Both tourists and locals roam around Vondelpark on sunny days, like Londoners in Hyde Park.
Other things that make Amsterdam worth visiting? The public transportation! It has an integrated transportation system comprising trams, metro, and buses. Not to mention, the money you’ll spend on transportation is less than London.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Amsterdam is historically-rich and offers exciting nightlife, just like London. It is also cheaper with more relaxed crowds
7. Berlin, Germany
Berlin offers everything London does—culture, history, and nightlife—but at a fraction of the cost. The city is famous for its alternative culture, underground music scene, and vibrant arts community. It’s also a major hub for startups and entrepreneurs, attracting creative minds from around the world. The cost of living is significantly lower than London’s, with affordable rent and plenty of green spaces to enjoy. Whether you’re into history, tech, or partying until sunrise, Berlin offers an exciting and affordable alternative to the UK’s capital.
Why it is a great alternative to London: A creative powerhouse buzzing with art, nightlife, and history—offering London’s edge with a more laid-back, affordable twist.
8. Barcelona, Spain
If we have to choose one word to describe London, we’ll go with ‘iconic’. But do you know what else is iconic AND sunny? It is Barcelona! The Spanish city attracts sun seekers, art lovers, and creative free souls. Let Gaudi’s masterpieces, like the Sagrada Familia Cathedral and Casa Vicens, sweep you off feet. Moreover, like London, Barcelona welcomes young travelers who are also looking to socialize and experiencing the great nightlife. You can walk through the streets of the Gothic Quarter or hit a beach bar, immersing in the city’s exciting atmosphere.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Barcelona’s “big city energy”, vibrant streets, and creative spaces will remind you of London
9. Krakow, Poland
Getting London’s timeless old town-look and stunning vibes with half the price is not a myth. You can head to Krakow, Poland, which makes travelers fall in love with its historical districts, cobblestone streets, and fascinating history. Spend the morning walking around the Old Town or browse through Sunday markets like Hala Targowa. Sounds similar to Borough Market, right? Aside from the historical wonders, Krakow has a fantastic nightlife with a mix of underground bars, jazz clubs, and lively student spots. If you’re looking for a beautiful, affordable, and culturally rich city, Kraków is a great pick.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Well-preserved historical districts, great museums, and a collection of more laidback districts for young people which are similar to London. Other than that, it’s more affordable than London
10. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is a rising star in Eastern Europe, showcasing magnificent Gothic and Hanseatic architecture style. Like London, the Old Town of Tallinn takes you back beyond the 15th century. The St. Nicholas Church and Gothic Town Hall become the popular landmarks, equal to Tower Bridge and Big Ben. While the old side is irresistible, this capital city of Estonia boasts technological and business advancement. Travelers can benefit from Tallinn’s high tech services, from high-speed hotspots to integrated transportation systems. Although the facade is not very similar, Tallinn is one of the cities like London in terms of history and fast-paced crowds.
Why it is a great alternative to London: Tallinn has cheaper prices, less crowds, yet a wealth of historical landmarks that will remind you of London
11. Milan, Italy
For those who love London’s cosmopolitan feel but want a touch of Italian elegance, Milan is a fantastic choice. It’s the financial and fashion capital of Italy, offering plenty of job opportunities in business, design, and creative industries. The food scene is, of course, incredible, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional trattorias. The city has a great mix of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks, giving it a unique charm. Plus, with easy access to the Italian countryside, lakes, and the Alps, weekend getaways are unbeatable.
Why it is a great alternative to London: A stylish metropolis where fashion, history, and aperitivo culture blend seamlessly—like London, but with better weather and espresso.
12. Boston, Massachusetts
Want a city that feels like London but with an American twist? Boston is the perfect match. With its rich history, world-class universities like Harvard and MIT, and strong job market, it’s one of the most exciting cities in the U.S. The city has a strong European feel, with its walkable streets, historic buildings, and love for the arts. It also has a fantastic sports culture, great food (especially seafood), and plenty of parks and waterfront spaces. If you’re looking for a transatlantic alternative to London, Boston is a great option.
Why it is a great alternative to London: A historic harbor city with London-like sophistication and intellect—minus the passport and with more sunshine.
Why just read about these amazing cities when you can experience them for yourself? Check out JoinMyTrip, where local experts and experienced TripLeaders organize unforgettable trips to these London alternatives. Whether you want to explore Berlin’s underground scene, soak up the sun in Barcelona, or dive into Dublin’s pub culture, we’ve got the perfect adventure for you. Check out our trips today and start your next journey!