A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagano vs. Berlin for Attractions, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Nagano or Berlin?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nagano and Berlin 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.

Nagano

Nagano is a traditional, alpine, and scenic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Berlin

Berlin is a artsy, creative, and eclectic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nagano and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Berlin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Berlin than Nagano. Berlin is bigger than Nagano, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Berlin is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nagano is more popular for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Nagano is well known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Berlin is well known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. Also, Berlin is famous for the Brandenburg Gate.

How is Nagano different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Skiing?

Nagano is a great city for skiing. However, Berlin is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Nagano. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Berlin is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagano or Berlin?

Berlin is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Berlin are world-renowned. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Is the Food Better in Nagano or Berlin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Nagano and Berlin.

Nagano has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Dining out in Berlin is an experience not to be missed. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Nightlife?

Berlin is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Berlin is a must-see party destination. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Music?

Berlin is terrific for its live music scene. However, Nagano is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Berlin. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Nagano is not a live music destination.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Berlin is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Nagano makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Berlin is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nagano. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Hiking?

Nagano is a great city for hiking. However, Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nagano for the hiking trails. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Berlin?

Berlin is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Berlin draws large crowds to its stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Berlin are high quality to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Berlin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Couples?

Both Nagano and Berlin are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nagano makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Berlin is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Students?

Berlin is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Berlin is a very popular city for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Is Nagano or Berlin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Berlin can take you anywhere. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Is Nagano or Berlin a more walkable city?

Nagano and Berlin are notable when it comes to walkability.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagano Worth Visiting? and Is Berlin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Berlin?

Both Nagano and Berlin have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Berlin than in Nagano. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-7 days is enough time in Berlin.

Families should spend more time in Nagano than Berlin. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nagano, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Nagano 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 Berlin.

One day in Nagano or Berlin?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Berlin?

Nagano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Berlin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagano or Berlin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berlin. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagano or Berlin?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the historic destination of Nagano. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Berlin is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Berlin?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano and Berlin, 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 Nagano or Berlin?

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 Nagano or Berlin in the Summer?

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

Nagano is a little warmer than Berlin in the summer. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Berlin. Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Berlin during summer. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In July, Nagano usually receives more rain than Berlin. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagano or Berlin in the Autumn?

Both Berlin and Nagano during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Berlin this time of year.

In the autumn, Nagano is much warmer than Berlin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nagano in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Berlin averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in October than Berlin. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Berlin. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Berlin. It's quite cold in Nagano in the winter. In January, Nagano is generally much warmer than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 2°C (36°F), and Berlin fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In Nagano, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during winter. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nagano usually receives more rain than Berlin. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagano or Berlin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Berlin. Many travelers come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Berlin in the spring for the activities around the city.

Nagano is a little warmer than Berlin in the spring. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun.

Nagano usually gets more rain in April than Berlin. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Berlin and Nagano