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

Should you visit Osaka or Stockholm?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Stockholm, 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. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a beautiful, clean, and coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Stockholm?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Stockholm, Stockholm has more sights and attractions for tourists. Stockholm is more popular for its music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Osaka is known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Stockholm is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town).

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Osaka different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Osaka are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

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

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!

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Osaka or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Osaka is a world class 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.

Many people head to Stockholm for the nightlife scene. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Osaka or Stockholm Better for Music?

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

Stockholm has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm is revered around the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Osaka make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Osaka or Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Osaka is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Osaka or Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Stockholm has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Osaka or Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Osaka is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Osaka or Stockholm Better for Students?

Osaka is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

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

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 Stockholm can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Is Osaka or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Stockholm?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Osaka than Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm, many people enjoy the live music and food that this coastal big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. 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 Stockholm?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy 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.

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. In Stockholm, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Stockholm?

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.

In Stockholm, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this safe big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Stockholm?

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

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

Both Stockholm 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Stockholm. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Stockholm. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Stockholm in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Stockholm. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stockholm 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 Stockholm in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 99 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 Stockholm. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Stockholm in the Winter?

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

Stockholm can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Stockholm averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets more rain in January than Stockholm. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Stockholm in the Spring?

Both Stockholm 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 Stockholm because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Osaka is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Osaka