A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagano vs. Stockholm for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Nagano or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm 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 historic, traditional, and alpine 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a clean, coastal, and safe city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nagano and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Stockholm?

You'll generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Nagano. Stockholm is bigger than Nagano, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Stockholm is better known for its music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nagano is more popular for its skiing, food, resorts, and hiking. Nagano is well known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Stockholm is well known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town).

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Nagano different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Skiing?

Nagano is well known for winter skiing. However, Stockholm is not a skiing destination.

People head to Nagano specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. 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.

Stockholm is not a skiing destination.

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Nagano and Stockholm.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

Nagano is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Nagano. 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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Nagano and Stockholm.

The nightlife in Nagano has something for everybody. 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.

Stockholm offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Music?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Nagano is not a live music destination.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Stockholm 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.

Stockholm is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is terrific for its old town. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Stockholm has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Hiking?

Nagano is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nagano. 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.

Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Stockholm?

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

Stockholm is well-known for its shopping. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Nagano is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Stockholm are notable places to visit.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Nagano or Stockholm Better for Students?

For students, both Nagano and Stockholm are notable places to visit.

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

Stockholm is a good city to visit for students. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm can take you anywhere. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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 Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Stockholm?

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

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

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

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

One day in Nagano or Stockholm?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the city of Nagano. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

A weekend in Nagano or Stockholm?

You'll find nightlife and food around the alpine destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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.

Five days in Nagano or Stockholm?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the traditional city of Nagano. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Stockholm?

Nagano is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Stockholm?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Nagano or Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Stockholm. The summer months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

Nagano is a little warmer than Stockholm in the summer. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Stockholm. In the summer, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Stockholm. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagano usually gets more rain in July than Stockholm. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nagano is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nagano in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Stockholm averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during autumn. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In October, Nagano usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nagano or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm and Nagano during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nagano for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stockholm in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nagano. In January, Nagano is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 2°C (36°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

It's quite sunny in Nagano. In the winter, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in January than Stockholm. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Stockholm. Many visitors come to Nagano in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Nagano is much warmer than Stockholm in the spring. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Nagano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm during spring. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nagano usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Nagano