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

Should you visit Kyoto or Katoomba?

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 Katoomba 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 in Kyoto as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Kyoto travel costs.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a relaxing, breathtaking , and stunning town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Katoomba is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Katoomba travel costs.

Kyoto and Katoomba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Katoomba?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto. Although Kyoto and Katoomba are popular destinations, Kyoto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kyoto is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Katoomba attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Kyoto is famous for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji. Katoomba is famous for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains.

How is Kyoto different from Katoomba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Katoomba offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

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

Kyoto is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Katoomba has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Katoomba 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 Katoomba has a few options to choose from. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Katoomba 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.

Katoomba does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba Better for Hiking?

Katoomba is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Around Katoomba visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Katoomba?

Kyoto is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Kyoto is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Katoomba. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba More Beautiful?

Kyoto and Katoomba are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

The famous beauty of Kyoto is one of the main draws. 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.

Many visitors also come to Katoomba because of it's amazing beauty. It's a town surrounded by natural beauty. It offers easy access to breathtaking views and impressive hikes through the Blue Mountains.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba Better for Families?

Katoomba is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Katoomba is an extremely popular town to visit for families. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kyoto. 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.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Katoomba makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Katoomba are very good 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 Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba Better for Students?

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

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

Katoomba is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Katoomba has some public transit options. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

Is Kyoto or Katoomba a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Katoomba or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Katoomba?

It's fun to spend time in either Kyoto or Katoomba. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Katoomba 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 Katoomba.

Couples should spend more time in Kyoto than Katoomba. 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 Katoomba 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 Katoomba?

The beautiful city of Kyoto offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Katoomba is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town 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 Katoomba?

Kyoto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kyoto, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Katoomba. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Katoomba?

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Katoomba is a fun place to experience. Katoomba is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Katoomba?

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Katoomba is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Scuba Diving Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Katoomba?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Katoomba. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Katoomba, 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 Katoomba?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Katoomba is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Kyoto has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Kyoto or Katoomba in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Katoomba. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Katoomba for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Katoombain January. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 27°C (81°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 24°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Katoomba this time of the year. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Katoomba during summer. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

Katoomba receives a lot of rain in the summer. Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Katoombain January. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Katoomba in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Katoomba. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Katoomba in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Kyoto is around the same temperature as Katoomba in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (65°F)in April.

In the autumn, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Katoombain April. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 195 hours of full sun.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kyoto usually gets more rain in October than Katoombain April. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Katoomba in the Winter?

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

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Kyoto is much colder than Katoomba. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Katoomba averages at about 11°C (51°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Katoomba. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Katoomba during winter. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Katoombain July. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Katoomba in the Spring?

Both Katoomba and Kyoto during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Katoomba because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Kyoto is generally cooler than Katoombain October. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 14°C (58°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Katoomba, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Katoombain October. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 240 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Katoombain October. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Katoomba and Kyoto