A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mount Bromo vs. Kyoto for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Mount Bromo or Kyoto? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a spectacular, breathtaking, and scenic volcano. The famous beauty of Mount Bromo is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Mount Bromo travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Many visitors also come to Kyoto because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kyoto travel costs.

Mount Bromo and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto. Although Mount Bromo and Kyoto are popular destinations, Kyoto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kyoto is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Bromo attracts visitors for its hiking. Mount Bromo is famous for its sunrise views and scenic setting. Kyoto is famous for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji.

How is Mount Bromo different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kyoto and Mount Bromo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Kyoto from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kyoto is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mount Bromo. You'll find cheap noodle and rice dishes at the warungs in Cemoro Lawang. Some hotels have breakfast and you should pick up some food and water for the hike at a grocery store in town. There are also some stalls along the route, some that are open even at 3am to accommodate early hikers.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Kyoto is a popular place for nightlife. However, Mount Bromo is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

People don't go to Mount Bromo for the nightlife. The stars and the early morning hike are the only nightlife you'll find here.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Mount Bromo does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kyoto offers plenty to see. 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.

Mount Bromo does not have a historic old town.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

Mount Bromo is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Mount Bromo. The setting is beautiful, and best experienced at sunrise, which means most people hike through the night. Some people take horses and most people organized guided tours.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

Kyoto is a great city for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Mount Bromo and Kyoto both are comparable with their terrific scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Mount Bromo because of it's amazing beauty. The setting and landscapes are spectacular, particularly at sunrise when most visitors make the trip.

You'll find world class beauty in Kyoto as well. 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.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto Better for Families?

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

Kyoto is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Mount Bromo is a family-friendly place to visit. It really depends on the age of your kids and their personality and adaptability as to whether this is a good trip for them. Many of the tours start in the middle of the night so you can see the spectacular sunrise. The trip can be a bit uncomfortable, but everyone is guaranteed an adventure!

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its romantic activities.

Kyoto makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Mount Bromo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic sunrises and stunning views make this a wonderful destination for couples. The surroundings are surreal and you will long remember the experience.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for backpackers.

Kyoto is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Mount Bromo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Some backpackers choose to go without a guided tour, and this will let you save money. Cemoro Lawang is the closest town to the volcano.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Mount Bromo is not popular with students.

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

Mount Bromo is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Mount Bromo. Most people visit with a guided tour because this saves a lot of time and allows you to see the sunrise.

Is Mount Bromo or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its high level of 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.

Mount Bromo is a somewhat walkable place. The walk takes you across the sand and up some stairs. It's usually less than an hour.

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

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Mount Bromo?

How long in Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mount Bromo and Kyoto. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kyoto than in Mount Bromo. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Mount Bromo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Mount Bromo. 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 Mount Bromo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kyoto that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Mount Bromo 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 Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

In Mount Bromo, many people enjoy the that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This volcano offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Bromo. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the traditional destination of Kyoto. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

Mount Bromo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Mount Bromo. 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.

The fascinating city of Kyoto offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mount Bromo or Kyoto?

You'll find around the scenic destination of Mount Bromo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mount Bromo and Kyoto, we can see that Kyoto is more expensive. And not only is Mount Bromo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mount Bromo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mount Bromo 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 Kyoto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kyoto than you might in Mount Bromo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mount Bromo Expensive? and Is Kyoto Expensive?.