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

Should you visit Nagano or Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a historic, charming, and picturesque city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nagano and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Strasbourg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagano than Strasbourg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nagano is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and big city activities, while Strasbourg attracts visitors for its historical sights and shopping. Nagano is famous for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also well known for Zenko-ji Temple. Strasbourg is famous for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Nagano different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Strasbourg Better for Skiing?

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

Nagano offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Strasbourg is not a skiing destination.

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

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

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 Strasbourg. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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

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

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 Strasbourg is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Nagano or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is a great city for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Nagano or Strasbourg Better for Resorts?

Nagano is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Strasbourg is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Strasbourg is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

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

Strasbourg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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 Strasbourg Better for Hiking?

Nagano is a great city for hiking. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Strasbourg?

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

Strasbourg is well-known for its shopping. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg Better for Families?

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

Nagano is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Nagano or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

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

Strasbourg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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 Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Strasbourg are nice 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Nagano or Strasbourg Better for Students?

For students, both Nagano and Strasbourg are nice 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.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Strasbourg is a great city 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 public transit in Strasbourg can get you around easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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 Strasbourg a more walkable city?

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

Strasbourg is a very walkable city. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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 Strasbourg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nagano and Strasbourg. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

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

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

One day in Nagano or Strasbourg?

With nightlife and food around the traditional city of Nagano, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nagano, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg?

With food and shopping around the destination of Nagano, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Nagano, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Nagano or Strasbourg?

Nagano is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Strasbourg. 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.

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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Strasbourg?

Nagano has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Nagano and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

Both Strasbourg and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nagano in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Nagano is generally a little warmer than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 25°C (77°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Strasbourg. Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Strasbourg during summer. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In July, Nagano usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagano or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

Both Strasbourg and Nagano during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nagano for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Nagano is a little warmer than Strasbourg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in October than Strasbourg. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Strasbourg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Strasbourg. The winter months attract visitors to Nagano because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Strasbourg in the winter. The weather in Nagano can be very cold. In the winter, Nagano is a little warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagano in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In Nagano, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during winter. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagano or Strasbourg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Strasbourg. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the natural beauty.

In April, Nagano is generally around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 11°C (52°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Nagano usually gets more rain in April than Strasbourg. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Nagano