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

Should you visit Osaka or Belfast?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Belfast, 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 high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Belfast

Belfast is a authentic, affordable, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and shopping.

Osaka and Belfast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Belfast?

You'll generally find more things to do in Osaka than Belfast. Osaka is bigger than Belfast, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Osaka is more touristy than Belfast and is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Also, Osaka is famous for Osaka Castle. Belfast is well known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Osaka different from Belfast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Belfast 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 Belfast?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Osaka that are not to be missed. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Osaka is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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!

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Osaka or Belfast Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Osaka is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Osaka or Belfast Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Osaka to see the historical old town. 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Belfast?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Osaka is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Osaka or Belfast Better for Families?

Osaka is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Osaka is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Osaka or Belfast Better for Couples?

Osaka is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Osaka is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Osaka or Belfast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Osaka or Belfast Better for Students?

Osaka is a well-known place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Osaka is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Osaka can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Osaka or Belfast a more walkable city?

Osaka and Belfast are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Belfast is somewhat walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Belfast or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Belfast?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Osaka and Belfast. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Osaka than in Belfast. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 1-3 days is enough time in Belfast.

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Belfast. 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 Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast?

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Belfast, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Osaka or Belfast?

Because Osaka 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Osaka has to offer.

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

Osaka is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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

A week in Osaka or Belfast?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the affordable destination of Belfast. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Belfast?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Belfast, 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 Belfast?

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 Belfast in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Osaka is much warmer than Belfast. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Belfast averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Belfast. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 151 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Belfast. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Belfast in the Autumn?

Both Belfast and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Belfast for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Osaka is generally much warmer than Belfast. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Belfast fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Belfast during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 92 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Belfast. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Belfast in the Winter?

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

Belfast can get quite cold in the winter. Osaka is a little warmer than Belfast in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Belfast fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Belfast. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Belfast receives 50 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Belfast. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Belfast in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Osaka is much warmer than Belfast. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Belfast averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Belfast during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Belfast receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Belfast. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Belfast receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Belfast and Osaka