A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kyoto vs. Bern for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Kyoto or Bern?

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 Bern 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 historic, cultural, and fascinating city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bern

Bern is a beautiful, cultural, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Bern: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Bern?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kyoto than Bern. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kyoto is more touristy than Bern and is known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji. Bern is famous for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

How is Kyoto different from Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kyoto that are not to be missed. 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.

Many visitors head to Bern specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.

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

Kyoto is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kyoto makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Is Kyoto or Bern Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Bern has a better nightlife scene.

Kyoto has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bern has a few options to choose from. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

Is Kyoto or Bern Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Kyoto is one of the most recognized in 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bern. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Bern?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bern 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 Bern. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

Is Kyoto or Bern Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Bern are excellent 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 Bern. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

Is Kyoto or Bern Better for Couples?

Kyoto is renowned for romance. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Kyoto makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

Is Kyoto or Bern Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Bern are excellent places to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bern. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

Is Kyoto or Bern Better for Students?

Kyoto is a well-known place for students. However, Bern is not popular with students.

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

Bern is not popular with students.

Is Kyoto or Bern 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 Bern.

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 Bern. There are trams and buses that run around town.

Is Kyoto or Bern a more walkable city?

Kyoto is renowned for its walkability. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Bern is a very walkable city. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

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

Should I spend more time in Bern or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Bern?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kyoto and Bern. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kyoto than Bern. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bern.

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Bern. 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 Bern. 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 Bern 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 Bern?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Bern, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Kyoto or Bern?

Kyoto is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bern. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Bern?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Kyoto or Bern?

The historic city of Kyoto offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Bern. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Bern?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bern. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Bern, 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 Bern?

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 Bern in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Bern. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bern in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Bern. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 27°C (81°F), and Bern fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bern this time of the year. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Bern during summer. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Bern. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Bern receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Bern in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Bern. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bern for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Kyoto is a little warmer than Bern in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Bern fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Bern. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 126 hours of full sun.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kyoto usually gets more rain in October than Bern. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bern receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Bern in the Winter?

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

The weather in Bern can be very cold. Kyoto can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Kyoto is much warmer than Bern. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Bern averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Bern during winter. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kyoto usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bern. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bern receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Bern in the Spring?

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

In April, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Bern. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 14°C (58°F), and Bern fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bern. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 164 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Bern. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bern receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bern and Kyoto