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

Should you visit Bucharest or Kyoto?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Kyoto. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a less touristy, undiscovered, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bucharest travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a fascinating, traditional, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of Kyoto is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kyoto travel costs.

Bucharest and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Kyoto?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Kyoto than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Kyoto, Kyoto has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Kyoto is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kyoto is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kyoto are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

Kyoto is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kyoto. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bucharest and Kyoto.

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

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 Bucharest or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Kyoto is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Kyoto?

Kyoto is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Bucharest is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Kyoto is one of the main draws. 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.

Bucharest is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bucharest or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kyoto is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kyoto is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Kyoto.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Kyoto offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Is Bucharest or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and Kyoto. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kyoto than Bucharest. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Bucharest. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kyoto, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kyoto than Bucharest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kyoto that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Bucharest or Kyoto?

In Bucharest, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Kyoto?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Kyoto?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Kyoto, we can see that Bucharest is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bucharest 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 Bucharest would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bucharest 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 Bucharest Expensive? and Is Kyoto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Kyoto?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Kyoto?

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 Bucharest or Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Bucharest is cooler than Kyoto in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bucharest. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Kyoto in the Autumn?

Both Kyoto and Bucharest during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

In the autumn, Bucharest is cooler than Kyoto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Kyoto averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Kyoto. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Kyoto in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Kyoto. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kyoto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kyoto. It's quite cold in Bucharest in the winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Kyoto during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Kyoto in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Kyoto. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Kyoto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Bucharest is cooler than Kyoto in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Kyoto. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Bucharest