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

Should you visit Osaka or Munich?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Munich, 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 vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a economically thriving, bustling, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Munich?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Munich than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Munich, Munich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Munich is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Osaka attracts visitors for its museums, food, and historical sights. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Munich is famous for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Osaka different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Osaka on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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!

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Osaka or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Both Osaka and Munich have amazing vibes after the sun sets.

People head to Osaka just to party. 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 nightlife in Munich is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Is Osaka or Munich Better for Music?

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

Munich has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Munich?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Osaka and Munich.

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.

Munich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Is Osaka or Munich Better for Families?

Osaka and Munich are both superb 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.

Munich is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Osaka or Munich Better for Couples?

Osaka and Munich are both superb 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 Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Osaka or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich 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 Munich, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich Better for Students?

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

Munich is a great destination for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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

Visitors will find amazing public transit in both Osaka and Munich.

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 Munich can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Is Osaka or Munich a more walkable city?

Munich 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.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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 Munich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Munich or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Munich?

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

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

One day in Osaka or Munich?

Osaka is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Munich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this economically thriving 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 Munich?

Osaka is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Osaka or Munich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Osaka. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling big city of Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Munich?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Munich. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Osaka during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

Osaka is a little warmer than Munich in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Munich, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Munich. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Munich. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Munich in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Munich. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Osaka is much warmer than Munich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Munich during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Munich. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Munich in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Munich. Many travelers come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Munich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Munich can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Munich. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Munich. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Munich in the Spring?

Both Munich and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Osaka in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Munich for the activities around the city during these months.

Osaka is a little warmer than Munich in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Munich during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Munich. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Munich and Osaka