A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nha Trang vs. Kyoto for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Nha Trang or Kyoto?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Nha Trang and Kyoto. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a coastal, resort-filled, and vibrant city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Nha Trang travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come to Kyoto because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kyoto travel costs.

Nha Trang and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kyoto than Nha Trang. Kyoto is bigger than Nha Trang, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kyoto is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nha Trang is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Nha Trang is more touristy than Kyoto and is popular for its backpacker-heavy nightlife scene, its long sandy beaches, and its beachside resorts. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji.

How is Nha Trang different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

Kyoto is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kyoto are world-renowned. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nha Trang. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife in the area, there are also several cultural sights worth visiting. Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, and XQ Historical Village are all interesting to visit. If you're looking for a thrill, also nearby is Vinpearl Land.

Is the Food Better in Nha Trang or Kyoto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kyoto is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kyoto has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Nha Trang area. Seafood is the most common option in many restaurants. You'll find local curries and spring rolls on many menus. Fish sauce is often served with dishes and many recipes have a sweet flavor. If you need a break from Vietnamese food, there are also restaurants that serve pizza, burgers, and other common international dishes.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Nha Trang is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Nha Trang is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is varied and caters to all types of travelers. There are glamorous rooftop bars and lounges, beachside parties, and booze cruises that cater to the backpacker crowd. The city is big enough to have options for everyone.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

Nha Trang is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Nha Trang makes a nice vacation spot. There's a mix of budget guesthouses and hostels, luxury beachfront resorts, and everything in between.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nha Trang is a city with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nha Trang has a few snorkeling spots. Snorkeling is a bit tricky here, because you need to visit during the right season and you'll need to hop on a tour to get to the best spots. If you're lucky you'll have good visibility and see some interesting marine life.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Nha Trang is a city with good options for the beach. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Nha Trang. The accessible beaches are very developed and filled with vacationers who are looking for fun activities. The sands are white and soft and the water is comfortable and fun to splash around in.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is very popular for its old town. However, Nha Trang does not have a historic old town.

Kyoto has a world-famous historical area. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Nha Trang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

Kyoto is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Kyoto is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Many visitors go to Nha Trang to go shopping. There are some local street markets that are fun to explore. There are also the typical shops and supermarkets that sell local produce, souvenirs, and any other essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Nha Trang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Kyoto because of it's amazing beauty. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Nha Trang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Families?

Both Nha Trang and Kyoto are very good family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nha Trang is very family-friendly. While it is known among the backpacker crowds for its party scene, there are also great beaches and many activities for families. Vinpearl Land is an amusement park in the area that has rides and shows. There's also Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda, which are both interesting to visit. The beaches also make a great playground for kids who enjoy building sand castles and playing in the shallow water.

Kyoto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Nha Trang is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are several romantic hotels near the beach as well as some interesting cultural activities and beautiful beaches with water activities.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nha Trang and Kyoto are very good places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Nha Trang. Backpackers looking for a party head to the streets around Biệt Thự Street. There are many cheap hostels and guesthouses in the area, and you won't be far from the area's best nightlife.

Kyoto is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Students?

Kyoto is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Nha Trang is not popular with students.

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Nha Trang is not popular with students.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kyoto is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Kyoto can get you to some places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Nha Trang has a few public transit options. There are six city bus routes. There are also many taxis and motorbike taxes available for reasonable rates.

Is Nha Trang or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Nha Trang is a very walkable destination. The city is compact enough that you can explore many parts on foot. Most of the attractions are near the intersection of Tran Phu and Biet Thu.

For even more information, also check out Is Nha Trang Worth Visiting? and Is Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Nha Trang?

How long in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nha Trang and Kyoto. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kyoto than Nha Trang. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Nha Trang 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 Kyoto.

One day in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

In Nha Trang, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this resort-filled destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. 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.

A weekend in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nha Trang. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Kyoto. 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.

Five days in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

Nha Trang is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Nha Trang. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nha Trang or Kyoto?

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy destination of Nha Trang. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kyoto 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Vietnam, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nha Trang and Kyoto, we can see that Kyoto is more expensive. And not only is Nha Trang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nha Trang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nha Trang 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 Kyoto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kyoto than you might in Nha Trang.

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

Which is Bigger, Nha Trang or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Nha Trang. When comparing the sizes of Nha Trang and Kyoto, 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 Nha Trang or Kyoto?

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

Should I visit Nha Trang or Kyoto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nha Trang as well as Kyoto. Nha Trang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Nha Trang is around the same temperature as Kyoto in the summer. The daily temperature in Nha Trang averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Nha Trang usually gets less rain in July than Kyoto. Nha Trang gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to August in Nha Trang is the dry season. September to December in Nha Trang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Kyoto in the Autumn?

Both Kyoto and Nha Trang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Nha Trang throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

In the autumn, Nha Trang is a little warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nha Trang in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Kyoto averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Nha Trang. In October, Nha Trang usually receives more rain than Kyoto. Nha Trang gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Nha Trang is September to December.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Kyoto in the Winter?

Both Kyoto and Nha Trang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Nha Trang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Kyoto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kyoto. In January, Nha Trang is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Nha Trang average around 24°C (75°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Nha Trang usually gets less rain in January than Kyoto. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. January to August is the dry season in Nha Trang.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Kyoto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nha Trang and Kyoto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Nha Trang year-round. Also, many visitors come to Kyoto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Nha Trang is much warmer than Kyoto in the spring. The daily temperature in Nha Trang averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Nha Trang usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Nha Trang