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

Should you visit Kyoto or Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a authentic, under-rated, and industrial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Pittsburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Pittsburgh, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kyoto is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pittsburgh is known for its nightlife. Kyoto is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji. Pittsburgh is popular for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Kyoto different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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

Kyoto is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Kyoto or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Pittsburgh know how to have a good time. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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 Pittsburgh Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Pittsburgh?

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

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Is Kyoto or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Kyoto is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Kyoto or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination 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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Kyoto or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

Is Kyoto or Pittsburgh Better for Students?

Kyoto is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

Kyoto is a great city to visit as a student. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Is Kyoto or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

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

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Pittsburgh?

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

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

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Kyoto, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Pittsburgh, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. 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 Pittsburgh?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kyoto, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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

Kyoto, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Kyoto or Pittsburgh?

Kyoto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Pittsburgh. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Pittsburgh?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Pittsburgh, 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.