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

Should you visit Kyoto or Munich?

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 Munich 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural 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 Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Munich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich. Although Kyoto and Munich are both popular with visitors, Munich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Munich is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Kyoto different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kyoto on the map. 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 Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

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

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.

Munich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Kyoto or Munich Better for Nightlife?

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

Munich is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich Better for Music?

Munich 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 Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Kyoto or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Kyoto can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Munich?

Munich 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 Munich make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Munich 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 Munich. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Kyoto or Munich Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Kyoto or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich 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 Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich Better for Students?

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

Munich is a very popular city for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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

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

Munich 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.

Munich has a great public transit system. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Munich?

In either Kyoto or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Kyoto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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

One day in Kyoto or Munich?

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 Munich 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 Munich?

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 Munich. 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 Munich?

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.

Munich is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Munich 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 Munich?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the economically thriving big city of Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Munich?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Munich. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Kyoto is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kyoto in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Munich averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Munich. Kyoto usually receives less sunshine than Munich during summer. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Munich. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Kyoto during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

In October, Kyoto is generally much warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 18°C (64°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Munich. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in October than Munich. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Munich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Munich. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Munich. It's quite cold in Kyoto in the winter. Kyoto is much warmer than Munich in the winter. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Munich. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Munich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Munich. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kyoto is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kyoto in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Munich. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Munich and Kyoto