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

Should you visit Osaka or Venice?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Venice, 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Venice

Venice is a magical, historic, and beautiful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Osaka and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Venice?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Venice. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is very popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Venice attracts visitors for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Venice is more touristy than Osaka and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle.

How is Osaka different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Venice 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 Venice that are not to be missed. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice 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!

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Osaka or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Osaka or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Venice 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 Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 Venice?

Shoppers can find a variety of terrific stores in both Osaka and Venice.

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.

Venice is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Is Osaka or Venice Better for Families?

Osaka and Venice 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.

Venice is a very family-friendly place to visit. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Osaka or Venice Better for Couples?

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

Venice has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Venice are both excellent 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 Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Osaka or Venice Better for Students?

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

Venice is a great destination for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

Visitors will find terrific public transit in both Osaka and Venice.

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 Venice can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

Is Osaka or Venice a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Venice?

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

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

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

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

One day in Osaka or Venice?

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 Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this romantic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Venice?

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 Venice. 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 Venice?

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.

Venice is a fun place to experience. In Venice, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quaint destination offers. 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 Venice?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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.

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination 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. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Venice?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

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

Osaka is a little warmer than Venice in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Venice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Venice during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 287 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 Venice. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Venice. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

In the autumn, Osaka is a little warmer than Venice. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Venice averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Venice. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Venice. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Venice in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Venice. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Venice during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Venice. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice 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 Venice in the spring for the natural beauty.

Osaka is a little warmer than Venice in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Venice fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Venice. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Venice. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Venice and Osaka