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

Should you visit Kyoto or Genoa?

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 Genoa 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Genoa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Genoa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kyoto is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Genoa is known for its beaches. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Kyoto different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

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

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.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Kyoto or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Genoa 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 Genoa has a few options to choose from. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Kyoto or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Kyoto or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Kyoto has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Genoa?

Kyoto is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Kyoto or Genoa Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Genoa 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 Genoa. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Kyoto or Genoa Better for Couples?

Kyoto is terrific for couples. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Kyoto or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Genoa are high quality 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 Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Kyoto or Genoa Better for Students?

Kyoto and Genoa are high quality places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Many students visit Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Is Kyoto or Genoa 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 Genoa.

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 Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Kyoto or Genoa a more walkable city?

Kyoto is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

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.

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Kyoto or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

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

In Kyoto, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fascinating destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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.

In Genoa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. This port 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 Genoa?

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

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

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

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

A week in Kyoto or Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Genoa. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Genoa?

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

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 Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa 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. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kyoto is a little warmer than Genoa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kyoto in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Genoa averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Genoa. 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. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

In October, Kyoto is generally around the same temperature as Genoa. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 18°C (64°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 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 Genoa. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Genoa in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Kyoto in the winter. Kyoto is much colder than Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Genoa. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets less rain in January than Genoa. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa 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 Genoa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kyoto is around the same temperature as Genoa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kyoto in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Genoa averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Genoa. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Kyoto