A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Tokyo for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cesis or Tokyo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Tokyo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a authentic, natural, and traditional town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Tokyo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food. See Tokyo travel costs.

Cesis and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cesis or Tokyo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo. Although Cesis and Tokyo are both popular with visitors, Tokyo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tokyo is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is known for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Tokyo is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Cesis is popular for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Tokyo?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tokyo are among the most recognizable in the world. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Tokyo is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Music?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for its live music scene. However, Cesis is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Tokyo The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Cesis is not a live music destination.


Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Tokyo

Cesis is adequate for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Tokyo

Cesis is a popular place for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Cesis is a good destination for hiking. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Tokyo?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Tokyo make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cesis or Tokyo More Beautiful?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Tokyo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Families?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Tokyo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.


Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Tokyo

Cesis and Tokyo are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cesis is a good town to visit for backpackers. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Students?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a very popular city for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Cesis is not popular with students.

Is Cesis or Tokyo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
Tokyo

Tokyo is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Tokyo has a great public transit system. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.


Is Cesis or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Cesis
Tokyo

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

Getting around Tokyo on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Tokyo?

Both Cesis and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Cesis 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 Tokyo.


  • How many days in Cesis or Tokyo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Tokyo 3-7

One day in Cesis or Tokyo?

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city 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.

A weekend in Cesis or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cesis. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Cesis or Tokyo?

Cesis is a fun place to experience. Cesis is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Cesis or Tokyo?

Cesis is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Tokyo or Cesis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in Tokyo is €158. 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 Cesis and Tokyo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis €47
    Tokyo €66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis €94
    Tokyo €132
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Tokyo

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Tokyo? 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 Cesis


Hotels in Tokyo


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cesis Hotel Prices and Tokyo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis €30
    Tokyo €15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

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

  • (HND) Haneda Airport Private Transfer to Central Tokyo: $97
  • Airport Shuttle Arrival Transfer : from Haneda Airport to Tokyo City: $62
  • Airport Transfer: Haneda Airport and Tokyo 23 wards: $135
  • Airport Transfer: Tokyo City to Narita Airport NRT by Luxury Van: $275
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Haneda Airport HND to Tokyo in Sedan: $292
  • Center Tokyo Private One Way Transfer To Haneda Airport: $110
  • Center Tokyo Private One Way Transfer To Narita Airport (License): $136
  • Departure Transfer from Tokyo City to Haneda Airport HND by van: $180
  • Experience Private Transfer Between Yokohama and Tokyo: $129
  • Haneda Airport (HND) Transfers: One-Way to Central Tokyo/Yokohama: $86
  • Haneda Airport (HND) to Tokyo 23 Wards – Private Transfer: $136
  • Haneda Airport (HND): Private Transfer to Hakone/Mount Fuji: $157

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Tokyo?

Prices for flights to both Tokyo and Cesis 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cesis €71
    Tokyo €56
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    €6.67

Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

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


  • Late Night Noodles
    €4.51
  • Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack
    €4.51
  • Meal at Airport
    €5.87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

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

  • Hide's Table A Unique Dinner Gathering Every Wednesday Night: $19
  • Tokyo : Vintage, Music & Food Tour in Shimokitazawa with a Local: $23
  • Asakusa: Senso-ji Sightseeing & Street Food Tour with Photos: $29
  • Shinjuku 7-Dishes vegetarian dinner at a Japanese izakaya: $29
  • Guided Tsukiji’s Local Food Tour: $32
  • For First Time Visitor:Tsukiji Food Tour with Tokyo Travel Advice: $32
  • Authentic Homestyle Japanese Cooking Class near Tokyo with Risa: $39
  • Giant Sushi Cooking Class: Make a 1.5m Sushi Roll in Tokyo: $42
  • Private Yanaka District Walking & Food Tour: $45
  • Weekend Japanese Cooking Demonstration with a Tokyo Mom, Toshiko: $49
  • Traditional Matcha Making Cooking Class & Tea Ceremony in Tokyo: $50
  • Japanese cooking class - Bring the flavors of Japan to France: $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis €16
    Tokyo €59

Tours and Activities in Tokyo

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

  • Self-Guided Tour of Tokyo's Hidden Alleys: $1.12
  • Tsukiji Fish Market Morning Tour Most Fresh Tuna Fish: $3.23
  • Experience Japan’s Beloved Morning Exercise – Radio Taiso”!: $5.17
  • Self Guided Podcast Tour Tokyo Akihabara's Electric Soul: $5.49
  • Tokyo Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.00
  • Tsukiji Market Early Morning Tour: $6.46
  • Marunouchi Night Tour: History and Views: $6.47
  • Mt Fuji/Lake Kawaguchi 1 day Private Bus Tour: $6.47
  • Cross Roppongi Karaoke Nightclub Ticket (For Foreign): $6.76
  • Podcast Tour Tokyo From Market to Sushi Masterpiece: $6.85
  • Tokyo Walking Tour 2h15 and 19 audio reviews: $6.88
  • Tokyo Fuji Art Museum Admission Ticket + Special Exhibition (when being held): $7.81

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis €17
    Tokyo €28

Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:


  • Sake
    €3.38

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

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

  • Low-cost local pub & bar crawling: $32
  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: Unique Japanese Drinks in Shimokitazawa: $34
  • 3 Hours Pub Crawl Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $35
  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: Unique Japanese Drinks in Shimokitazawa: $36
  • 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Nightlife Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $46
  • Tokyo Japanese Wine Tasting Experience (Not Sake) | Near Shibuya: $65
  • Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Japanese Sake Brewery Day Tour: $84
  • Tokyo Sake Terroir Journey – Guided by Sake Brewery Professional: $91
  • Shinjuku Bar Crawl Tour -3 Drinks & Local foods-: $103
  • Chiba Nabedana Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting: $129
  • Saitama Matsuoka Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting: $130
  • Sake Brewery and Spiritual Nature Tour in Okutama Tokyo: $133


When comparing the travel costs between Cesis and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Cesis is in Europe and Tokyo is in Asia, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 460 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Tokyo, 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 Cesis or Tokyo?

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 Cesis or Tokyo in the Summer?

Both Tokyo and Cesis during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cesis for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cesis is much colder than Tokyo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cesis in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Tokyo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cesis usually gets less rain in July than Tokyo. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Tokyo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Tokyo. Many visitors come to Cesis in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Tokyo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cesis is generally much colder than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 7°C (45°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Tokyo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Tokyo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Tokyo. Most visitors come to Cesis for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cesis can be very cold during winter. Cesis is much colder than Tokyo in the winter. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Tokyo fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Tokyo. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Tokyo 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cesis because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

In the spring, Cesis is much colder than Tokyo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cesis in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Tokyo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Tokyo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Cesis

Cesis Tokyo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 180 mm (7.1 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)