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

Should you visit Osaka or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Rome, 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. See Osaka travel costs.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Rome is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Rome travel costs.

Osaka and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome. Although Osaka and Rome are popular destinations, Rome has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rome is very popular for its music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Osaka attracts visitors for its historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Osaka and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also well known for The Colosseum. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city.

The Colosseum

How is Osaka different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Rome 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 Rome that are not to be missed. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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

Foodies will find both Osaka and Rome both to be first-rate destinations.

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!

Many restaurants in Rome have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Is Osaka or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Both Osaka and Rome have first-rate 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 Rome is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Is Osaka or Rome Better for Music?

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

Rome has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Rome?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Osaka and Rome.

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.

Rome is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Is Osaka or Rome More Beautiful?

Rome is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Rome is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its many beautiful landmarks and impressive architecture, this city has a lot of attractive places to visit. Don't miss Villa Borghese Park, Trastevere, Palazzo Madama, the Appian Way, and Piazza Navona.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Osaka or Rome Better for Families?

Osaka and Rome 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.

Rome is a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is Osaka or Rome Better for Couples?

Osaka and Rome 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 Rome frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Osaka or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome 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 Rome, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

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

Rome is a great destination for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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

Visitors will find first-rate public transit in both Osaka and Rome.

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 Rome can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Is Osaka or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Rome?

Both Osaka and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Osaka. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

Couples should spend more time in Rome than Osaka. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rome that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Osaka or Rome?

Osaka is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Rome, many people enjoy the live music and food that this bustling 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 Rome?

Osaka is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Osaka or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Osaka. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a fun place to experience. In Rome, 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 Rome?

The cultural city of Osaka offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

In Rome, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this fun-filled big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Rome?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Rome. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Osaka during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Osaka is a little warmer than Rome in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Rome. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Rome. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Osaka is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 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 Rome. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Rome. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Osaka is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Rome. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Osaka is around the same temperature as Rome in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Rome. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Osaka