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

Should you visit Osaka or Valletta?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Valletta, 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a charming, cultural, and waterfront town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Osaka and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Valletta?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka. Although Osaka and Valletta are popular destinations, Osaka has more sights and attractions for tourists. Osaka is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Valletta attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Osaka is more touristy than Valletta 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. Valletta is famous for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Osaka different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Valletta 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 Valletta that are not to be missed. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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

Foodies will find both Osaka and Valletta 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 Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Is Osaka or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Osaka is a must-see 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Osaka or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

The beach in Valletta is worth checking out. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Osaka or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valletta 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 Valletta is revered around the world. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

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 Valletta?

Osaka is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Valletta 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.

Valletta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Osaka or Valletta Better for Families?

Osaka is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Osaka or Valletta Better for Couples?

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

Valletta has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Valletta are both high quality 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 Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Osaka or Valletta Better for Students?

Osaka is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with 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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Osaka can take you anywhere. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Osaka or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta 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 Valletta. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Valletta?

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

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

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

Osaka is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Valletta, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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 Valletta?

Osaka is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Osaka, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Valletta is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Valletta. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Osaka or Valletta?

Osaka is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Valletta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Valletta?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 380 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

Osaka has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Osaka is around the same temperature as Valletta in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Valletta fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Valletta. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In the autumn, Osaka is cooler than Valletta. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Valletta averages at about 21°C (70°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Valletta. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Valletta. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Osaka is generally much colder than Valletta. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Valletta. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Valletta. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

Osaka is around the same temperature as Valletta in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Valletta fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Valletta. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Osaka