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

Should you visit Kyoto or Venice?

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 Venice 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.

Venice

Venice is a historic, beautiful, and romantic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Kyoto and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Venice?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Venice than Kyoto. While Kyoto is larger than Venice, Venice has more sights and attractions for tourists. Venice is more popular for its shopping and quaint atmosphere, while Kyoto is known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Kyoto and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Kyoto different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the amazing sights and museums in both Kyoto and Venice.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kyoto are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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

Kyoto is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Kyoto or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Kyoto is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Kyoto or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Both Kyoto and Venice have amazing historic old towns worth visiting.

The old town of Kyoto is one of the most recognized in 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.

Venice offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Venice?

Venice 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 Venice make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Venice 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 Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Kyoto or Venice Better for Couples?

Both Kyoto and Venice are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

Kyoto is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Venice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Is Kyoto or Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Venice are superb 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 Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Kyoto or Venice Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular city for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

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

Venice 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.

Venice has a great public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice a more walkable city?

Kyoto and Venice both are amazing when exploring on foot.

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.

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Venice or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Venice?

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

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Venice. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Venice 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 Venice.

One day in Kyoto or Venice?

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.

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Venice?

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 Venice. 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.

Five days in Kyoto or Venice?

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.

Venice is a fun place to experience. In Venice, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kyoto or Venice?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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.

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Venice?

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

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 Venice in the Summer?

Both Venice and Kyoto during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Kyoto is a little warmer than Venice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kyoto in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Venice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Venice, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Venice. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Venice. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Venice. 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 Venice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 18°C (64°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Venice during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 134 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 Venice. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Venice in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Venice. The winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

It's quite cold in Venice in the winter. The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. Kyoto is much warmer than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Venice. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets less rain in January than Venice. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Venice for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kyoto is a little warmer than Venice. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kyoto in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Venice averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Venice during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Venice. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Venice and Kyoto