A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Canberra vs. Auckland for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Canberra or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Auckland? 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.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Canberra travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan 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, beaches, and hiking. See Auckland travel costs.

Canberra and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Auckland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Auckland than Canberra. Auckland is bigger than Canberra, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Auckland is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Canberra different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Canberra or Auckland?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Canberra and Auckland.

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Is the Food Better in Canberra or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Canberra and Auckland.

Canberra has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Auckland is considered a top beach destination. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Canberra and Auckland both have notable trails.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Many people include a hike when visiting Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Auckland?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Auckland.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Couples?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Students?

Both Canberra and Auckland are great destinations for students.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Is Canberra or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Canberra and Auckland.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Canberra or Auckland a more walkable city?

Canberra is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Canberra Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Auckland?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Canberra 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 Auckland.

One day in Canberra or Auckland?

The city of Canberra offers food and shopping. 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.

Auckland is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Canberra or Auckland?

Canberra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Canberra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Auckland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Auckland, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Canberra or Auckland?

Canberra is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Canberra or Auckland?

Canberra is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Auckland is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Canberra and Auckland, we can see that Auckland 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. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Auckland?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra and Auckland, 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 Canberra or Auckland?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Canberra or Auckland in the Summer?

Both Auckland and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Canberra is around the same temperature as Auckland in the summer. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In January, Canberra usually receives more rain than Auckland. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Canberra or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Canberra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Auckland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Canberra is around the same temperature as Auckland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Canberra in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Auckland averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Canberra. Canberra usually gets more rain in April than Auckland. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Auckland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Auckland. Many visitors come to Canberra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In July, Canberra is generally around the same temperature as Auckland. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 11°C (52°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Auckland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In July, Canberra usually receives less rain than Auckland. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Canberra or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Auckland. Most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Canberra is around the same temperature as Auckland in the spring. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Canberra usually gets more rain in October than Auckland. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Canberra