A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagoya vs. Torquay for Food, Families, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nagoya or Torquay?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Torquay? 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.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-rated, often overlooked, and under-the-radar city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Torquay

Torquay is a laid back, hip, and thriving surf town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nagoya and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Nagoya or Torquay?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagoya. Although Nagoya and Torquay are both popular with visitors, Nagoya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagoya is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Torquay is known for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Torquay is more touristy than Nagoya and is known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. Nagoya is popular for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. It is also home to the Nagoya Castle.

How is Nagoya different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagoya or Torquay?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya is great for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nagoya can be an interesting and educational experience. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.


Is the Food Better in Nagoya or Torquay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nagoya is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Nagoya for the nightlife scene. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Nagoya
Torquay

Torquay is very popular for the beach. However, Nagoya is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Torquay. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Nagoya is not a beach destination.


Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Nagoya
Torquay

Torquay is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Torquay. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagoya or Torquay?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its shopping areas.

Nagoya is well-known for its shopping. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Families?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Nagoya is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.


Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Couples?

Nagoya
Torquay

Torquay is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Torquay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya and Torquay are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nagoya. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Torquay is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Students?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Torquay is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Nagoya. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

Torquay is not popular with students.


Is Nagoya or Torquay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its public transit.

Nagoya has some very good public transit options. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

Torquay has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Is Nagoya or Torquay a more walkable city?

Nagoya
Torquay

Nagoya and Torquay are very good when it comes to walkability.

Nagoya is a very walkable destination. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

Torquay is very walkable. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? and Is Torquay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Nagoya?

How long in Nagoya or Torquay?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nagoya and Torquay. In our opinion, Nagoya has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nagoya than Torquay. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagoya than Torquay 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 Nagoya.


  • How many days in Nagoya or Torquay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagoya 2-3 
    Torquay 2-3

One day in Nagoya or Torquay?

Because Nagoya is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Torquay. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Nagoya or Torquay?

Because Nagoya is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagoya has to offer.

Torquay is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, 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 Nagoya or Torquay?

Nagoya is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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.

A week in Nagoya or Torquay?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagoya. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nagoya. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the hip destination of Torquay. This surf town 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Torquay or Nagoya?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nagoya is $89, while the average daily cost in Torquay is $86. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nagoya and Torquay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagoya $46
    Torquay $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagoya $92
    Torquay $78
Compare Hotels in Nagoya and Torquay

Looking for a hotel in Nagoya or Torquay? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nagoya


Hotels in Torquay


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nagoya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagoya $11
    Torquay $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagoya

Also for Nagoya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chubu Airport (NGO): Private Transfer to/from Naign Shrine: $768
  • Chubu Airport (NGO) to/from Kyoto Private Transfer: $441
  • Private Transfer between Chubu Centrair Int'l Airport and Nagoya: $283
  • Private One-Way Transfers to/from Suzuka Circuit: $276
  • Nagoya airport to/from LEGOLAND Private transfer: $187
  • Chubu Airport (NGO) to/from Nagoya Private Transfer: $157
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya City Hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port: $144
  • Chubu Itn Airport to/from Nagoya City private transfer: $136
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya city hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port : $131
  • Private Transfer - Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO): $94
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $66
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya hotels: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagoya or Torquay?

Prices for flights to both Torquay and Nagoya change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nagoya $27
    Torquay $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Grandma’s Traditional Cooking Class: $65
  • Nagoya Special Food Tour: $66
  • Market Tour and Authentic Nagoya Cuisine Cooking Class With a Local in Her Home: $92
  • Specialties of Nagoya Food Tour: $174

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagoya $13
    Torquay $11

Tours and Activities in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Day Tour with Ghibli Park Admission Ticket Round Trip from Nagoya: $174
  • Experience Japanese calligraphy & tea ceremony at a traditional house in Nagoya: $109
  • Explore Holy Mt Horaiji Private Tour: $207
  • Explore-Castles Tour in Samurai City Aichi Using Local Train: $233
  • From Gujo, Hida Takayama, and Shirakawa-go Day Tour: $60
  • From Ise Grand Shrine Day Tour: $60
  • Full-Day Kisoji Nakasendo Trail Tour from Nagoya: $226
  • Ghibli Park Ticket and Accommodation 2 Days Package (No Guide): $179
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Tokugawa Museum and Garden: $142
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $118
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Noritake Garden & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $110
  • Guided Half-day Tour(PM) to Nagoya Castle and Modern Technology at SCMAGLEV: $142

Tours and Activities in Torquay

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Torquay.

  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $73
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $94
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $93
  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $52
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $92
  • Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $119
  • Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagoya $12
    Torquay $7.42

Sample the Local Flavors in Nagoya

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nagoya:

  • Pub Crawl in Nagoya: $38
  • Restaurant and Bar Crawl in Nagoya Japan: $40


When comparing the travel costs between Nagoya and Torquay, we can see that Nagoya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Nagoya is in Asia and Torquay is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Nagoya or Torquay?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Nagoya and Torquay, 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 Nagoya or Torquay?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Torquay is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Nagoya has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Nagoya or Torquay in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagoya and Torquay. Many travelers come to Nagoya for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Torquay in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nagoya is generally around the same temperature as Torquayin January. Daily temperatures in Nagoya average around 27°C (80°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Torquay receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagoya usually receives more rain than Torquayin January. Nagoya gets 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nagoya 27°C (80°F) 
    Torquay 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Torquay in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagoya as well as Torquay. Many visitors come to Nagoya in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Nagoya is cooler than Torquay in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagoya averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Torquay fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

Nagoya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagoya usually gets more rain in October than Torquayin April. Nagoya gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nagoya 18°C (64°F) 
    Torquay 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Torquay in the Winter?

Both Torquay and Nagoya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nagoya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Torquay because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nagoya can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Nagoya is much colder than Torquay. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagoya in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Torquay averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In January, Nagoya usually receives less rain than Torquayin July. Nagoya gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nagoya 4°C (40°F) 
    Torquay 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Torquay in the Spring?

Both Torquay and Nagoya during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Torquay this time of year.

In April, Nagoya is generally cooler than Torquayin October. Daily temperatures in Nagoya average around 14°C (58°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. Nagoya usually gets more rain in April than Torquayin October. Nagoya gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nagoya 14°C (58°F) 
    Torquay 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Torquay and Nagoya

Nagoya Torquay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 152 mm (6 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 204 mm (8 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)