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

Should you visit Osaka or Manchester?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Manchester, 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Manchester

Manchester is a diverse, cultural, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and Manchester: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Manchester?

You'll generally find more things to do in Osaka than Manchester. Osaka is bigger than Manchester, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Osaka is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Manchester is more popular for its music. Osaka is more touristy than Manchester and is known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Also, Osaka is famous for Osaka Castle. Manchester is well known for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Osaka different from Manchester?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Travelers visit Osaka from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

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

Osaka is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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!

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Is Osaka or Manchester Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is very popular for nightlife. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Osaka is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Manchester has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Is Osaka or Manchester Better for Music?

Manchester is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Osaka is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Manchester has diverse options. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Manchester Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is great for its historic old town. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Manchester?

Osaka is very popular for shopping. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Osaka. 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.

Manchester is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Osaka or Manchester Better for Families?

Osaka and Manchester 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.

Manchester is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Is Osaka or Manchester Better for Couples?

Osaka and Manchester 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 Manchester frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Is Osaka or Manchester Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Osaka is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Osaka or Manchester Better for Students?

Both Osaka and Manchester are excellent 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 Manchester. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

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

Osaka is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Osaka has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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 in Manchester can get you to some places easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Is Osaka or Manchester a more walkable city?

Osaka and Manchester 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.

Manchester is somewhat walkable. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Manchester or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Manchester?

It's fun to spend time in either Osaka or Manchester. In our opinion, Osaka has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Osaka than Manchester. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

When visiting Osaka, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Manchester, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cultural big city 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 Manchester?

When visiting Osaka, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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

Osaka, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Osaka or Manchester?

Osaka is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant big city of Manchester. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Manchester?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Manchester, 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 Manchester?

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 Manchester in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Osaka is much warmer than Manchester. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Manchester averages at about 16°C (62°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Manchester during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 176 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 Manchester. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Manchester in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Manchester. 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 music scene are the main draw to Manchester this time of year.

In October, Osaka is generally much warmer than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Manchester. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 97 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Manchester. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Manchester in the Winter?

Both Manchester 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 Manchester for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Manchester. Osaka is much warmer than Manchester in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Manchester fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Manchester during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Manchester. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Manchester in the Spring?

Both Manchester 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 Manchester in the spring for the activities around the city.

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

In the spring, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Manchester. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 144 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Manchester. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Manchester and Osaka