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

Should you visit Kyoto or Miami?

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 Miami 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami

Miami is a bustling, high energy, and glamorous beach 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.

Kyoto and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Miami?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Miami than Kyoto. While Kyoto is larger than Miami, Miami has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Miami is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Kyoto and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also well known for South Beach. Kyoto is famous for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Kyoto different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Miami have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Kyoto or Miami Better for Nightlife?

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

Miami is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami Better for Music?

Miami 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 Miami Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Kyoto or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is renowned for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Miami is a world class resort vacation destination. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Kyoto or Miami Better for Beaches?

Miami is renowned for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Miami is considered to be a world-class beach destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Kyoto or Miami Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Miami does not have a historic old town.

Kyoto offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Miami does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Miami?

Miami 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 Miami make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Miami Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Miami 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 Miami. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Kyoto or Miami Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Miami is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Kyoto or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is well known for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Kyoto. 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 Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Kyoto or Miami Better for Students?

Kyoto is well known for students. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

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

Visitors to Kyoto can move around easily with public transportation. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Kyoto or Miami a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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.

Miami is a very walkable city. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Miami or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Miami?

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

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

In Kyoto, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this traditional 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.

Each neighborhood in Miami has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This beach 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 Miami?

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 Miami. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Miami?

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.

Miami is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Miami has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kyoto or Miami?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional 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.

Each neighborhood in Miami has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Miami?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

Both Miami 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 Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Kyoto is generally around the same temperature as Miami. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 27°C (81°F), and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Miami during summer. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Miami. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Miami in the Autumn?

Both Miami 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 Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Kyoto is cooler than Miami in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Miami fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Miami. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets less rain in October than Miami. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Miami in the Winter?

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

The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. In the winter, Kyoto is much colder than Miami. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Miami averages at about 67°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Miami during winter. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kyoto usually receives less rain than Miami. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Miami in the Spring?

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

In April, Kyoto is generally much colder than Miami. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 14°C (58°F), and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. In the spring, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Miami. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Miami and Kyoto