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

Should you visit Christchurch or Florence?

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

Should I visit Christchurch 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.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. Christchurch is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Christchurch travel costs.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of Florence is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Florence travel costs.

Christchurch and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence. Although Christchurch and Florence are roughly the same size, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Christchurch is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking. Florence is more touristy than Christchurch and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Christchurch different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Florence is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Many visitors head to Christchurch specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

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

Florence is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 and cabbage soup. You'll also find all of your favorite Italian staples and many great family-owned trattorie.

Christchurch has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Christchurch or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Christchurch has something for everybody. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

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 Christchurch or Florence Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is a great city for the beach. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Christchurch. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Christchurch or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is terrific for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Florence has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Christchurch or Florence Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a great city for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Christchurch for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Florence?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Florence and Christchurch.

Christchurch is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 Christchurch or Florence More Beautiful?

Florence is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Florence is one of the main draws. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.

Is Christchurch or Florence Better for Families?

Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

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 Christchurch or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Christchurch is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Christchurch or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is terrific for backpackers. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Christchurch or Florence Better for Students?

Florence is terrific for students. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent 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.

Christchurch is very popular with students. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Christchurch and Florence.

You'll find some public transit in Christchurch, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

While Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has a comprehensive bus system.

Is Christchurch or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot and the striking beauty and and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a great place to wander. During peak seasons, the streets can get crowded.

Christchurch is a very walkable destination. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Florence?

Both Christchurch and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Christchurch. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Florence than Christchurch. 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 Christchurch 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 Christchurch or Florence?

The city of Christchurch offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 food and shopping that this iconic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Christchurch or Florence?

Christchurch 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 Christchurch, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Christchurch or Florence?

Christchurch 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.

In Florence, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this alluring destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Christchurch or Florence?

Christchurch is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, 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.

Florence is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch 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 Christchurch or Florence?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Christchurch is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Florence has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Christchurch or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Christchurch during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Christchurch is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Christchurch. In the summer, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Florencein July. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in January than Florencein July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Florence. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping 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.

In the autumn, Christchurch is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Christchurch in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F)in October.

Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Florence during autumn. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Florencein October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Christchurch or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Florence. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Florence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Christchurch is generally cooler than Florencein January. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 6°C (43°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than Florencein January. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in July than Florencein January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Christchurch is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. Christchurch usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Florencein April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Christchurch