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

Should you visit Osaka or Budapest?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Budapest, 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 cultural, high energy, and colorful 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.

Budapest

Budapest is a artistic, historic, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Osaka and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Budapest?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Budapest, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Budapest is known for its big city activities and impressive beauty. 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. Budapest is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

How is Osaka different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Osaka are world-renowned. 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 Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Osaka is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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!

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Osaka or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Osaka is a must-see party destination. 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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Osaka or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Osaka and Budapest both have excellent historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Budapest is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Budapest?

Osaka is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Osaka draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Osaka or Budapest Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Osaka is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Osaka or Budapest Better for Couples?

Osaka and Budapest are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Osaka makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Budapest frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Osaka or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other 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.

Is Osaka or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Budapest is a great destination for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Students come from all over to stay in Osaka. 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.

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

Visitors will find terrific public transit in both Osaka and Budapest.

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.

Visitors in Budapest can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Osaka or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Budapest?

In either Osaka or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Osaka because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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 Budapest than Osaka 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 Budapest.

One day in Osaka or Budapest?

Osaka is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Budapest, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this bustling big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Budapest?

Osaka is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Osaka, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Budapest?

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Budapest is a fun place to experience. In Budapest, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this big city destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Osaka or Budapest?

Osaka is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the authentic big city of Budapest. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When comparing the travel costs between Osaka and Budapest, we can see that Budapest 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 Osaka is in Asia and Budapest is in Europe, 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 Osaka Expensive? and Is Budapest Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Budapest?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Budapest. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Osaka or Budapest in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Budapest. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Budapest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Budapest this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Budapest. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Budapest. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

Osaka is much warmer than Budapest in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Budapest. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Budapest. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Budapest averages at about -1°C (31°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives more rain than Budapest. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Budapest in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Budapest. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Osaka