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

Should you visit Osaka or Frankfurt?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Frankfurt, 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a diverse, accessible, and modern city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Osaka and Frankfurt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Frankfurt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Frankfurt. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is more touristy than Frankfurt and is known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle. Frankfurt is famous for its financial industry, its popularity as a transportation hub, and its active nightlife.

How is Osaka different from Frankfurt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Frankfurt can be an interesting and educational experience. Many sights are concentrated in the old town center. Highlights include the Historical Museum and St. Nicholas Church. Elsewhere, make sure you check out Maintower, the Städel Museum, and the Museum District.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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!

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Frankfurt makes for a great culinary experience. In addition to a number of international restaurants, the city also has a strong regional cuisine. Some of the most interesting local dishes include Frankfurter Sausage, Rindwurst, Grüne Soße (an herb sauce), and Handkäse mit Musik (marinated sour milk cheese). Also make sure you sample the Apfelwein.

Is Osaka or Frankfurt Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

The people in Frankfurt know how to have a good time. It's a vibrant city with many trendy clubs, cocktail bars, music venues, and more. You can enjoy techno, hip hop, and almost any style of music. There are also festivals, beer halls, and classic pubs.

Is Osaka or Frankfurt Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors go to Frankfurt to see the historical old town. Many museums and cafes are concentrated in the old town area.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Frankfurt?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Osaka specifically to go shopping. 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.

Frankfurt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a financial capital in Europe, and as such there are plenty of high end shopping opportunities. MyZeil is a major shopping mall in the city and Kleinmarkthalle is a more classic market. Popular shopping neighborhoods and streets include Goethestrasse, Sachsenhausen and Berger Strasse.

Is Osaka or Frankfurt Better for Families?

Osaka and Frankfurt 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.

Frankfurt is a very family-friendly place to visit. In town there's a zoo, a children’s museum, a math and technology museum (EXPERIMINTA), and a number of parks, natural areas, and playgrounds. If you're willing to head out of town then you can visit Taunus Wunderland, which is an amusement park with about 50 rides and attractions.

Is Osaka or Frankfurt Better for Couples?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Frankfurt is a nice destination for couples. The iconic spot of romance in the city is the Iron Footbridge, which is a traditional spot to attach a "love lock" and take a selfie. The city also offers river cruises, winery tours, and beautiful parks and natural areas.

Is Osaka or Frankfurt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Frankfurt are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Frankfurt. You'll find a number of hostels in town. The city is also a major transportation hub so many backpackers pass through the area at some point on their trip through Germany.

Is Osaka or Frankfurt Better for Students?

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

Frankfurt is a great destination for students. The city offers prestigious universities and a world class education. The economy offers many internships and job opportunities and you'll find students from around the world studying here. Frankfurt is also well connected to the rest of Europe, so it's easy to explore the region.

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 Frankfurt Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

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 Frankfurt can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It is a huge transportation hub with a major international airport and a number of international train connections. Locally, the city has a subway, trams, commuter trains and buses.

Is Osaka or Frankfurt a more walkable city?

Frankfurt 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.

Frankfurt is a very walkable destination. It has a compact city center that is generally pedestrian-friendly.

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 Frankfurt Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Frankfurt or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Frankfurt?

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

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

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 Frankfurt, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this connected big city 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 Frankfurt?

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 Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt?

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.

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

A week in Osaka or Frankfurt?

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 modern big city of Frankfurt. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Frankfurt?

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

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 Frankfurt in the Summer?

Both Frankfurt and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Frankfurt because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Osaka is a little warmer than Frankfurt in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Frankfurt fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Frankfurt. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Frankfurt during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 225 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Frankfurt. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Frankfurt in the Autumn?

Both Frankfurt and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Frankfurt this time of year.

In the autumn, Osaka is much warmer than Frankfurt. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Frankfurt averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Frankfurt. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 103 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Frankfurt. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Frankfurt in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Frankfurt. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Frankfurt for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Frankfurt. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Frankfurt. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Frankfurt fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Frankfurt during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives around the same amount of rain as Frankfurt. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Frankfurt in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Frankfurt. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Frankfurt in the spring for the activities around the city.

Osaka is much warmer than Frankfurt in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Frankfurt fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Frankfurt. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 163 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Frankfurt. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Frankfurt and Osaka