A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kyoto vs. Baltimore for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Kyoto or Baltimore?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kyoto and Baltimore 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.

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 this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a colorful, historic, and vibrant 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.

Kyoto and Baltimore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Baltimore?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kyoto than Baltimore. Kyoto is bigger than Baltimore, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kyoto is better known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Baltimore is more popular for its nightlife. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji. Baltimore is well known for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Kyoto different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Baltimore 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Kyoto and Baltimore.

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.

Baltimore has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Is Kyoto or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore 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 Baltimore know how to have a good time. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

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 Kyoto or Baltimore Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Kyoto is revered around 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.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Baltimore?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Baltimore and Kyoto.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Is Kyoto or Baltimore Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Baltimore are superb to visit with kids.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Is Kyoto or Baltimore Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Kyoto has plenty to offer. 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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Kyoto or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Is Kyoto or Baltimore Better for Students?

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

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

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Kyoto can get you to some places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Baltimore. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Is Kyoto or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Baltimore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kyoto and Baltimore. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kyoto than Baltimore. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Baltimore 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 Kyoto or Baltimore?

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.

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant 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.

A weekend in Kyoto or Baltimore?

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.

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

Five days in Kyoto or Baltimore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural 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.

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

A week in Kyoto or Baltimore?

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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Baltimore?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Baltimore. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Baltimore, 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 Kyoto or Baltimore?

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 Kyoto or Baltimore in the Summer?

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

Kyoto is around the same temperature as Baltimore in the summer. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Baltimore fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Baltimore. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during summer. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Baltimore in the Autumn?

Both Baltimore and Kyoto during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Kyoto is a little warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kyoto in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Baltimore averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Baltimore. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in October than Baltimore. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Baltimore in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Baltimore. The winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year.

It's quite cold in Baltimore in the winter. The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. In January, Kyoto is generally much warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 5°C (40°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during winter. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kyoto usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Baltimore in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Baltimore. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Baltimore for the activities around the city.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. In the spring, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Baltimore. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Baltimore. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Kyoto