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

Should you visit Osaka or Edinburgh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Edinburgh, 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 colorful, vibrant, and cultural 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Edinburgh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Edinburgh is more popular for its theatre productions, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Osaka is known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Edinburgh is more touristy than Osaka and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city.

How is Osaka different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Edinburgh and Osaka.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Osaka has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Edinburgh that are not to be missed. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Osaka is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Osaka is not a theatre destination.

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

Osaka is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Osaka have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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!

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Osaka is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Edinburgh is revered around the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Osaka is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Edinburgh?

Osaka is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Osaka and Edinburgh are both high quality 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.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Osaka and Edinburgh are both high quality 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 Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh Better for Students?

Both Osaka and Edinburgh are high quality destinations for students.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Osaka is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Osaka can take you anywhere. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Osaka or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Edinburgh?

In either Osaka or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

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

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

One day in Osaka or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this gothic destination 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant 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.

Edinburgh is a fun place to experience. In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this quaint 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 Edinburgh?

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 theater and nightlife around the charming destination of Edinburgh. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Edinburgh?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Osaka is much warmer than Edinburgh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Edinburgh. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Edinburgh in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Edinburgh. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Osaka is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Edinburgh. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Osaka