A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Osaka vs. Baltimore for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Osaka or Baltimore?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Baltimore, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a diverse, colorful, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Osaka and Baltimore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Baltimore?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Baltimore, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Osaka different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Osaka or Baltimore?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Osaka are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

Is the Food Better in Osaka or Baltimore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Osaka has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

Baltimore has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Is Osaka or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Osaka just to party. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

Many people head to Baltimore for the nightlife scene. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Is Osaka or Baltimore Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is well known for its old town. However, Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Osaka. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Baltimore?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Osaka make it a world-class shopping destination. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Is Osaka or Baltimore Better for Families?

Osaka and Baltimore are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Osaka. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Baltimore is a very family-friendly place to visit. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Is Osaka or Baltimore Better for Couples?

Osaka is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Osaka or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is well known for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Osaka is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Is Osaka or Baltimore Better for Students?

Osaka is well known for students. However, Baltimore is not popular with students.

Osaka is very popular with students. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

Is Osaka or Baltimore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Osaka can get you around easily. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Baltimore. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Is Osaka or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Baltimore is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Osaka Worth Visiting? and Is Baltimore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Baltimore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Osaka and Baltimore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Osaka than in Baltimore. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 2-3 days is enough time in Baltimore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Osaka than Baltimore 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 Osaka.

One day in Osaka or Baltimore?

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Osaka or Baltimore?

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

Five days in Osaka or Baltimore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Osaka. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Baltimore is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Baltimore. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Osaka or Baltimore?

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Baltimore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Baltimore?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Baltimore. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Baltimore, 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 Osaka or Baltimore?

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 Osaka or Baltimore in the Summer?

Both Baltimore and Osaka during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Baltimore. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun.

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Baltimore. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Baltimore in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Baltimore. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year.

Osaka is a little warmer than Baltimore in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Baltimore fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Baltimore in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Baltimore. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Baltimore. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Baltimore averages at about 32°F (0°C).

In the winter, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Baltimore. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Baltimore. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Baltimore in the Spring?

Both Baltimore and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Baltimore in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Baltimore. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Osaka