A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Tokyo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a environmentally conscious, waterfront, and active city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high tech, high energy, and vibrant 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Helsinki and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Tokyo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Helsinki, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Helsinki is known for its impressive beauty. Tokyo is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Tokyo just to party. 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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Helsinki is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Tokyo?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Tokyo draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Is Helsinki or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

Helsinki is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Is Helsinki or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Tokyo are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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.

Is Helsinki or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki and Tokyo are both good destinations for backpackers.

Helsinki is a good city to visit for backpackers. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

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 Helsinki or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Many students visit Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Tokyo can get you around easily. 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.

Helsinki offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Is Helsinki or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Tokyo?

Both Helsinki 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 Helsinki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. 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 Helsinki 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.

One day in Helsinki or Tokyo?

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this coastal destination offers. 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.

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Tokyo?

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

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Tokyo?

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

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Tokyo?

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

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki Expensive? and Is Tokyo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Tokyo?

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 Helsinki or Tokyo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Tokyo. Many travelers come to Helsinki for 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, Helsinki is much colder than Tokyo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Tokyo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Tokyo. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the autumn for the shopping scene 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, Helsinki is generally much colder than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Tokyo. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. Helsinki usually gets less rain in October than Tokyo. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Tokyo in the Winter?

Both Tokyo and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Helsinki can be very cold during winter. Helsinki is much colder than Tokyo in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Tokyo fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Tokyo during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo and Helsinki during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Tokyo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Tokyo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Tokyo. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Helsinki