A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Florence?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Florence? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high tech, high energy, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Florence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Florence is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Florence is more touristy than Tokyo and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple.

How is Tokyo different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Tokyo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tokyo or Florence?

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Florence and Tokyo.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Tokyo or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Tokyo and Florence.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for Music?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Tokyo. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Florence?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Tokyo draws large crowds to its stores. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for Families?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for couples. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for Students?

For students, both Tokyo and Florence are fantastic places to visit.

Many students frequent Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Students come from all over the world to visit Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Is Tokyo or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Tokyo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Tokyo or Florence a more walkable city?

Tokyo and Florence are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

Tokyo is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Florence?

Both Tokyo and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Tokyo than Florence. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Tokyo 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 Florence.

One day in Tokyo or Florence?

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Florence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this iconic 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 Tokyo or Florence?

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. 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 Tokyo or Florence?

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Florence is a fun place to experience. In Florence, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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 Tokyo or Florence?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this iconic 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Tokyo and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Tokyo is in Asia and Florence is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tokyo Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Florence?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Florence, 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 Tokyo or Florence?

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 Tokyo or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Florence. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Florence. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Tokyo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tokyo is a little warmer than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Florence. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Florence. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Florence. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Florence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tokyo is cooler than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Florence during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Florence. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Florence. The spring months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In April, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Florence. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Florence. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Tokyo