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

Should you visit Kyoto or Berlin?

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 Berlin 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 traditional, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come to Kyoto because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kyoto travel costs.

Berlin

Berlin is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food. See Berlin travel costs.

Kyoto and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Berlin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Berlin than Kyoto. Berlin is bigger than Kyoto, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Berlin is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Berlin is well known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. Also, Berlin is famous for the Brandenburg Gate.

How is Kyoto different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Berlin 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 Berlin?

Plenty of people visit the first-rate sights and museums in both Kyoto and Berlin.

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 plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Berlin has many famous sights for visitors. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Kyoto and Berlin.

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.

Berlin has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Kyoto or Berlin Better for Nightlife?

Berlin is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Berlin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

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 Berlin Better for Music?

Berlin is renowned for its live music scene. However, Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Berlin From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Kyoto or Berlin Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Berlin does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kyoto offers plenty to see. 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.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Berlin?

Berlin is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Berlin make it a world-class shopping destination. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. 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.

Is Kyoto or Berlin More Beautiful?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Berlin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Kyoto because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Berlin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kyoto or Berlin Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Berlin are high quality 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 Berlin. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Is Kyoto or Berlin Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Kyoto has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Kyoto or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin is renowned for backpackers. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Berlin. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Kyoto or Berlin Better for Students?

Berlin is renowned for students. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Berlin is a very popular city for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

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

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

Berlin is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Berlin has a great public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Is Kyoto or Berlin a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Berlin?

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

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Berlin. 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 Berlin. 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 Berlin than Kyoto 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 Berlin.

One day in Kyoto or Berlin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Berlin 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 Kyoto or Berlin?

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Berlin is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Berlin 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 Kyoto or Berlin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Kyoto. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Berlin 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kyoto and Berlin, we can see that Berlin 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 Berlin is in Europe, 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 Berlin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Berlin 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 Berlin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Berlin?

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

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 Kyoto or Berlin in the Summer?

Both Berlin and Kyoto during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Berlin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kyoto is a little warmer than Berlin in the summer. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Berlin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Berlin. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Berlin. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Berlin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Berlin. The autumn months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Berlin this time of year.

In the autumn, Kyoto is much warmer than Berlin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kyoto in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Berlin averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Berlin. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Berlin. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Berlin. It's quite cold in Kyoto in the winter. In January, Kyoto is generally much warmer than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 5°C (40°F), and Berlin fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets more rain in January than Berlin. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Berlin in the Spring?

Both Berlin and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Berlin in the spring for the activities around the city.

Kyoto is much warmer than Berlin in the spring. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Berlin. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Berlin and Kyoto