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

Should you visit Osaka or Vienna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Vienna, 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. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Vienna

Vienna is a musical, ritzy, and classical city. 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 Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Vienna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Vienna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Vienna is known for its music, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Vienna is more touristy than Osaka and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle.

How is Osaka different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Osaka are world-renowned. 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 Vienna. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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!

Dining out in Vienna is an experience not to be missed. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Is Osaka or Vienna Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Osaka is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Osaka or Vienna Better for Music?

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

Vienna has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

Vienna 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 Vienna is revered around the world. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

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 Vienna?

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

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.

Vienna is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Is Osaka or Vienna Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Osaka is very family-friendly. 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 Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Osaka or Vienna Better for Couples?

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

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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 Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Osaka or Vienna Better for Students?

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

Vienna is a great destination for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

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

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

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 Vienna can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Is Osaka or Vienna a more walkable city?

Vienna 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 Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Vienna?

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

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

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

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 Vienna, many people enjoy the live music and food that this musical 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna. 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 Vienna?

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.

Vienna is a fun place to experience. In Vienna, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this 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 Vienna?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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 traditional destination of Vienna. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Vienna?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Vienna. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Vienna, 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vienna this time of year.

In July, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Vienna. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Vienna in the Autumn?

Both Vienna and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Vienna for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Osaka is much warmer than Vienna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Vienna fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Vienna. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Vienna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Vienna. Many travelers come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vienna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vienna can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Vienna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Vienna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives more rain than Vienna. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Vienna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Vienna. Many visitors come to Osaka in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Vienna for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vienna. In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Vienna. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Osaka