A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berlin vs. Queenstown for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Berlin or Queenstown?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Queenstown, 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.

Berlin

Berlin is a cultural, artsy, and creative city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping. See Berlin travel costs.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a outdoorsy, nature-oriented, and spirited city. The beauty of Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Queenstown travel costs.

Berlin and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Berlin or Queenstown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Berlin. Although Berlin and Queenstown are popular destinations, Berlin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Berlin is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Queenstown attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Berlin is famous for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also well known for the Brandenburg Gate. Queenstown is famous for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery.

How is Berlin different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Berlin
Queenstown

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Berlin is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Queenstown is among the best in the world. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Berlin is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berlin or Queenstown?

Berlin
Queenstown

Berlin is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Berlin that are not to be missed. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

While most people don't head to Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

Is the Food Better in Berlin or Queenstown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berlin
Queenstown

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Queenstown is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

Dining out in Berlin is an experience not to be missed. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Berlin
Queenstown

Berlin is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Berlin just to party. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Queenstown has a large number of nightlife venues. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.


Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Music?

Berlin
Queenstown

Berlin is a world-class destination for live music. However, Queenstown is not a live music destination.

Berlin is a world class music destination. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Queenstown is not a live music destination.

Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Berlin
Queenstown

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Queenstown draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Queenstown?

Berlin
Queenstown

Berlin is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Berlin is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Queenstown is well-known for its shopping. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.


Is Berlin or Queenstown More Beautiful?

Berlin
Queenstown

Queenstown is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Berlin is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its mountains and surrounding beauty, this is a breathtakingly beautiful city.

Berlin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Families?

Berlin
Queenstown

Berlin and Queenstown are both great destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Queenstown is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Couples?

Berlin
Queenstown

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Queenstown has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.


Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin
Queenstown

For backpackers, both Berlin and Queenstown are world-class places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Berlin is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Queenstown is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Students?

Berlin
Queenstown

Berlin is a world-class destination for students. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Berlin is a very popular place to visit for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Queenstown is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

Is Berlin or Queenstown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berlin
Queenstown

Berlin is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berlin can get you around easily. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Queenstown has some public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.


Is Berlin or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Berlin
Queenstown

Queenstown is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Queenstown is a very walkable city. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached on foot.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

For even more information, also check out Is Berlin Worth Visiting? and Is Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Queenstown?

Both Berlin and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Queenstown 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 Berlin.


  • How many days in Berlin or Queenstown? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berlin 2-7 
    Queenstown 2-7

One day in Berlin or Queenstown?

When visiting Berlin, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Queenstown. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Berlin or Queenstown?

When visiting Berlin, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Queenstown 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.


Five days in Berlin or Queenstown?

Berlin, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Queenstown. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Berlin or Queenstown?

Berlin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Queenstown. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Queenstown or Berlin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Berlin is €175, while the average daily cost in Queenstown is €110. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Berlin and Queenstown in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berlin 64
    Queenstown 47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berlin 128
    Queenstown 94
Compare Hotels in Berlin and Queenstown

Looking for a hotel in Berlin or Queenstown? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Berlin


Hotels in Queenstown


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Berlin Hotel Prices and Queenstown Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berlin 18
    Queenstown 8.64
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:


  • Short Trip Metro Ticket
    1.40
  • Bahn Ticket
    3.00
  • Short Taxi Ride
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

Also for Berlin, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Berlin Private Transfer to/from Berlin Brandenburg Airport: $58
  • Private One way Airport Transfer Berlin To Berlin Airport: $64
  • Listening Station Teufelsberg Tour with Transfer: $65
  • Transfer from Brandenburg Airport to Berlin City Center: $77
  • Transfer from Berlin City Center to Berlin Brandenburg Airport: $77
  • Berlin to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) - Departure Transfer: $82
  • Private Transfers from to Berlin Airport BER: $108
  • Berlin Private Transfer from Berlin Brandenburg Airport to Berlin City centre: $110
  • Arrival Transfer: Berlin Airport BER to Berlin in Business Car: $118
  • Berlin Airport (SXF) to Berlin - Arrival Private Transfer : $120
  • Private Transfer: Brandenburg Airport BER to Berlin in Luxury Car: $130
  • Arrival Transfer: Berlin Airport BER to Berlin in Luxury Van: $130

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Queenstown

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Queenstown:

  • Tasman Glacier Helihike with Flight Transfers: $982
  • Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer: $748
  • Private Transfers from Queenstown Airport to Wanaka : $177
  • From Cardrona Ski/Snowboard Rentals & Transfer: $152
  • Queenstown to Mt Cook One Way Scenic Transfer: $115
  • Queenstown Airport to/from Wanaka Hassle Free Private Transfer : $101
  • Queenstown International Airport to City Hotels Transfer : $90
  • Queenstown private transfer: $87
  • Private Airport Transfer Vice Versa in Queenstown by SUV: $69
  • QUEENSTOWN:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Hotels: $52
  • ZQN Airport to Downtown|Hotels Private Transfer: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Berlin or Queenstown?

Prices for flights to both Queenstown and Berlin change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Berlin 90
    Queenstown 52
Typical Food Prices in Berlin

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Berlin:


  • Sandwich and Coffee To Go
    5.00
  • Turkish Sandwich
    2.00
  • Currywurst
    2.00
  • 2 Pho Noodles
    9.00
  • Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2)
    60
  • Mauer Park (2)
    11
  • Coffees at Impala
    7.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $32
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin With Set Lunch or Dinner : $39
  • Kreuzberg kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $53
  • Sharing plate food tour in Berlin: $84
  • Berlin Food Tour with Full Meal & Drinks by Do Eat Better : $86
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free Dinner Experience: $88
  • Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $92
  • Street Food Tour with 10 Tastings: $93
  • Vegetarian Berlin Food Tour Global Flavors in Alexanderplatz: $94
  • Berlin Street Food Tour by Bike: $102
  • Berlin Center Food Tour with 8+ Authentic Local Tastings: $106
  • Berlin 4-Course Sunset Dinner Cruise Including Drinks : $143

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Queenstown

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Queenstown.

  • Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza: $17
  • Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown: $119
  • Queenstown Wine & Food Tour: Scenery, Tastings & Delicious Lunch!: $135
  • Wine & Food Tour, Scenic Tastings & Paired Lunch: $138

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berlin 22
    Queenstown 18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Berlin Zoo (2)
    20

Tours and Activities in Berlin

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Berlin.

  • Rude Walking Tour: $3.52
  • Rude Bastards tour of Medieval Berlin: $3.61
  • Berlin Third Reich Walking Tour: $4.81
  • Berlin's Museum Island: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Ku'damm Couture and Currywurst: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.48
  • Berlin Wall: Greatest Escapes Self-Guided Walking Adventure: $6.00
  • Berlin Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $6.45
  • The Dönerkebab's History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Third Reich Quest Experience in Berlin: $7.20
  • Haunts and Horrors of Berlin GPS Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.80
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Berlin's Jewish Quarter: $7.99
  • Berlin Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $8.40

Typical Entertainment Prices in Queenstown

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Queenstown are as follows:


  • Skyline Gondola (for 2)
    25

Tours and Activities in Queenstown

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Queenstown are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Ultimate Jet Boat Adventure on the Kawarau River: $89
  • 20-Minute Remarkables Helicopter Tour from Queenstown: $167
  • 30-Minute High-Speed Thrill Queenstown Jet Boat Adventure : $65
  • Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown: $125
  • Beauties of Queenstown Private Walking Tour: $941
  • Boutique Winery Half-Day Tour & Vineyard Platter-Style Lunch: $150
  • Cardrona Valley Mountain Quad Experience from Wanaka: $215
  • Convertible Picnic Tour Queenstown: $113
  • Cruise Milford Small Group Day Tour from Queenstown : $221
  • Dart River Canoe and Jet Boat Experience from Queenstown: $264
  • Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Experience: $184
  • Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Queenstown: $278

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berlin 16
    Queenstown 7.54
Typical Alcohol Prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Show
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

Also in Berlin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Beer hike in Berlin Experience brewery and craft beer: $66
  • Showgirls of Burlesque Show: $76

Sample the Local Flavors in Queenstown

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Queenstown:

  • Ice Bar Crawl: $23
  • Queenstown, Arrowtown, Gibbston: Join the Only Flexible Wine Tour: $53
  • Bike & Wine Tour: Arrowtown to Valley of the Vines: $69
  • Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours: $75
  • Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch: $107
  • Queenstown's Original Wine Tour Celebrating 33 Years: $113
  • Classic Wine Tour: $127
  • Queenstown Classic Wine Tour: 3 Winery Visits, Cave Tour & Cheese: $131
  • Central Otago Wine Tour: $132
  • Award Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries: $137
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $144
  • Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour: $149


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

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


Which is Bigger, Berlin or Queenstown?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Queenstown. When comparing the sizes of Berlin and Queenstown, 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.