A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Kyoto for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Antalya or Kyoto?

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

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

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of Antalya is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Antalya travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Kyoto is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Kyoto travel costs.

Antalya and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Kyoto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Antalya than Kyoto. While Kyoto is larger than Antalya, Antalya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antalya is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Kyoto is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Antalya is more touristy than Kyoto and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Antalya different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Kyoto?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Kyoto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Kyoto can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kyoto makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Antalya is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Antalya know how to have a good time. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Music?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its live music scene. However, Kyoto is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

Antalya is renowned for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Antalya is renowned for the beach. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Antalya is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Kyoto offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

Antalya is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Kyoto?

Antalya is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Antalya or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Kyoto is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Antalya is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is a beautiful city with historic buildings and stunning beaches.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Kyoto.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Kyoto is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kyoto makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Kyoto are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Kyoto is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Kyoto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find excellent public transit in both Antalya and Kyoto.

Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Is Antalya or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Kyoto. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Kyoto. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Kyoto 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Kyoto?

In Antalya, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this vibrant destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Kyoto, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Kyoto, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kyoto has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Kyoto?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. In Antalya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Kyoto is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Kyoto?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the historic destination of Antalya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan, and The Best Contiki Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antalya and Kyoto, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Antalya is in Europe and Kyoto is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya than you might in Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Antalya. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Kyoto, 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 Antalya or Kyoto?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antalya in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Kyoto. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Kyoto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Kyoto. Most visitors come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Antalya is a little warmer than Kyoto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Kyoto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Kyoto. The winter months attract visitors to Antalya because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kyoto in the winter. In the winter, Antalya is much warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Kyoto averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Kyoto. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Kyoto in the Spring?

Both Kyoto and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Antalya