Which place is cheaper, Nara or Jerusalem?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Jerusalem or Nara?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Jerusalem or Nara, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Where Should I go: Jerusalem or Nara?
Jerusalem
Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel, as well as one of the most historically rich cities in the world. It is also the largest city in the country. While Tel Aviv holds many of the responsibilities of a capital city, officially, Jerusalem is still considered the capital. It is important to note that most countries have their embassies in Tel Aviv, not in Jerusalem.
Nara
As Japan's first capital, Nara offers a world of tradition and culture second only to the city of Kyoto. It is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which are largely concentrated in the area of Nara Park. Here, it is also common to see many deer wandering freely amongst the temples and shrines.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Israel, The Best Budget Tours to Israel, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayJerusalem $107Nara $86
The average daily cost (per person) in Jerusalem is $107, while the average daily cost in Nara is $86. 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 Jerusalem and Nara in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personJerusalem $63Nara $52
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomJerusalem $126Nara $104
Compare Hotels in Jerusalem and Nara
Looking for a hotel in Jerusalem or Nara? 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.
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: Jerusalem Hotel Prices and Nara Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Jerusalem $6.64Nara $5.83
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Local Bus$3.13
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Light Rail Jerusalem$9.68
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jerusalem
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Jerusalem:
- Private Jerusalem Departure Transfer - Hotel/Accommodation to Tel Aviv Airport: $48
- Private Intercity Transfer - from your Jerusalem hotel to your Tel Aviv hotel: $90
- Private Transfer: From Jerusalem to Tel Aviv: $95
- Jerusalem Private Transfer To Allaenby Bridge: $105
- Jerusalem to Allenby Bridge Private Transfer: $130
- VIP Transfer between Ben Gurion Airport and Jerusalem: $130
- VIP transfer between Ben Gurion Airport and Jerusalem: $130
- Private Airport Transfers to/from Hotel: $144
- Jerusalem to Ben Gurion Airport Private Transfer: $150
- Jerusalem to Allenby Bridge Private Transfer: $150
- Private Transfer from Dead Sea Hotels to Aqaba Airport: $160
- Allenby Bridge to Jerusalem or Tel Aviv Private Transfer: $170
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nara
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nara:
- Kansai Airport (KIX)：Private One-Way Transfer to/from Nara: $240
Is it cheaper to fly into Jerusalem or Nara?
Prices for flights to both Nara and Jerusalem 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
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Food Meals for one dayJerusalem $31Nara $28
Typical Food Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of dining costs in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Orange Juice$2.65
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Watermelon$3.98
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Lunch$12
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Food at Market$15
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Juice$2.65
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Bagels$7.96
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Lunch for 2$14
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Snacks$5.57
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jerusalem
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jerusalem.
- Private Lunch or Dinner at a Local Traditional Restaurant from Dead Sea: $96
- Private Madaba Haret Jdoudna Restaurant Lunch or Dinner from Dead Sea: $115
- The Best Food Tour in Jerusalem-Perfect for Viral Travel Content: $117
- Christmas Eve in Israel: Jerusalem Sightseeing Tour with Dinner and Midnight Mass Viewing in Bethlehem: $125
- Experience Shabbat With Dinner In Jerusalem: $170
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nara
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nara.
- Eel Fishing and Cooking Experience in Kyoto: $72
- Cooking class, learning how to make authentic sushi: $111
- Full Day Nara E bike Tour and Osaka History Food Tour: $189
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Jerusalem $8.43Nara $7.81
Typical Entertainment Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Cooking Classes for 2$33
Tours and Activities in Jerusalem
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Jerusalem are as follows:
- 360 Virtual Tour of Ancient Jerusalem: $6.00
- In The Footsteps of Jesus Day Tour - Dguide Self Guiding App: $7.00
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
- Skip the Line:1.5Hour AudioTour - Yad Vashem Holocaust Remembrance Center Ticket: $11
- Bethlehem Christian Guided Tour: $20
- Independent graffiti tour in Jerusalem at your own time and pace: $22
- Self-Guided Tour at Machne Yehuda Market with Chef Tali Fridman: $25
- Old City Shabbat Experience and Walking Tour: $28
- Guided Walking Tour of the Old City: $30
- Guided Shabbat Experience in Jerusalem: $30
- Bethlehem Half Day Guided Group Tour : $30
- Old City Highlights Tour: $39
Tours and Activities in Nara
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Nara are as follows:
- Nara Heijyo-Kyo Bike Tour in UNESCO World Heritage Site: $16
- Nara Heijyo-Kyo Bike Tour in UNESCO World Heritage Site: $16
- A completely private tour to meet your favorite tea: $22
- A completely private tour to meet your favorite tea: $23
- Nara Craft Tours - local Craft beers tour experience in Nara City: $27
- Guided Uji Anime Walking Tour: $31
- Private Bike Tour in Nara with Japanese Guide: $36
- All must-sees in 3 hours - Nara Park Classic Tour! From JR Nara!: $42
- Nara Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $55
- Nara Like a Local: Customized Guided Tour: $55
- Eigo Tour - Walk in Nara City: $65
- Kyoto Uji Matcha Incense Making Experience (Reservations available for 2 people or more): $69
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayJerusalem $16Nara $11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Jerusalem
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Jerusalem are as follows:
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Beer$4.77
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jerusalem and Nara, we can see that Jerusalem is more expensive. And not only is Nara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Jerusalem is in Middle East and Nara 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 Nara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nara 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 Jerusalem would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jerusalem than you might in Nara.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jerusalem Expensive? and Is Nara Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Jerusalem or Nara?
Jerusalem has a larger population, and is about 94% larger than the population of Nara. When comparing the sizes of Jerusalem and Nara, 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 Jerusalem or Nara?
Nara has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Jerusalem experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.
Should I visit Jerusalem or Nara in the Summer?
Both Nara and Jerusalem are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jerusalem throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nara for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In the summer, Jerusalem is cooler than Nara. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jerusalem in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Nara averages at about 27°C (80°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jerusalem. Jerusalem usually receives more sunshine than Nara during summer. Jerusalem gets 364 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. In July, Jerusalem usually receives less rain than Nara. Jerusalem gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyJerusalem 23°C (73°F)Nara 27°C (80°F)
Should I visit Jerusalem or Nara in the Autumn?
Both Nara and Jerusalem during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Jerusalem because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Nara because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
In October, Jerusalem is generally around the same temperature as Nara. Daily temperatures in Jerusalem average around 19°C (66°F), and Nara fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).
It's quite sunny in Jerusalem. In the autumn, Jerusalem often gets more sunshine than Nara. Jerusalem gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun.
Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Jerusalem usually gets less rain in October than Nara. Jerusalem gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberJerusalem 19°C (66°F)Nara 17°C (63°F)
Should I visit Jerusalem or Nara in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jerusalem and Nara. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jerusalem year-round. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nara this time of year.
It's quite cold in Nara in the winter. Jerusalem is much warmer than Nara in the winter. The daily temperature in Jerusalem averages around 8°C (46°F) in January, and Nara fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).
Jerusalem usually receives more sunshine than Nara during winter. Jerusalem gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Jerusalem usually receives more rain than Nara. Jerusalem gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryJerusalem 8°C (46°F)Nara 4°C (40°F)
Should I visit Jerusalem or Nara in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Jerusalem as well as Nara. Jerusalem attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Nara for the natural beauty.
In the spring, Jerusalem is a little warmer than Nara. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jerusalem in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Nara averages at about 14°C (57°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jerusalem this time of the year. In the spring, Jerusalem often gets more sunshine than Nara. Jerusalem gets 269 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun.
It's quite rainy in Nara. Jerusalem usually gets less rain in April than Nara. Jerusalem gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilJerusalem 16°C (61°F)Nara 14°C (57°F)
Typical Weather for Nara and Jerusalem
| Jerusalem | Nara | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 8°C (46°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) | 4°C (40°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Feb | 9°C (48°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) | 5°C (40°F) | 60 mm (2.3 in) |
| Mar | 12°C (54°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 99 mm (3.9 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 127 mm (5 in) |
| May | 19°C (66°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 19°C (65°F) | 128 mm (5.1 in) |
| Jun | 22°C (72°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 23°C (73°F) | 214 mm (8.4 in) |
| Jul | 23°C (73°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 27°C (80°F) | 186 mm (7.3 in) |
| Aug | 23°C (73°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 117 mm (4.6 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (72°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 24°C (74°F) | 154 mm (6.1 in) |
| Oct | 19°C (66°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 110 mm (4.3 in) |
| Nov | 15°C (59°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | 12°C (53°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
| Dec | 10°C (50°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.