A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Christchurch vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Christchurch or Jaco?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Jaco? 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 adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Christchurch travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a popular, touristy, and laid back town. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Jaco travel costs.

Christchurch and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Jaco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Christchurch. Although Christchurch and Jaco are both popular with visitors, Christchurch has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Christchurch is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jaco is known for its nightlife and scuba diving & snorkeling. Jaco is more touristy than Christchurch and is popular for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Christchurch is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. It is also home to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

How is Christchurch different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jaco 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 Jaco?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Christchurch can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

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

Christchurch is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Jaco is a must-see party destination. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jaco is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Jaco has a few good snorkeling spots. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Jaco. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Jaco is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Christchurch. 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.

Jaco is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Jaco?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Christchurch. 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.

Jaco is a great destination for shopping. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Is Christchurch or Jaco More Beautiful?

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Families?

Christchurch is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Couples?

Christchurch is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Christchurch makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch and Jaco are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Christchurch is a great city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Jaco. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

Is Christchurch or Jaco Better for Students?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Jaco is not popular with students.

Christchurch is a great city to visit as a student. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Jaco is not popular with students.

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

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Christchurch has some public transit options. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Christchurch or Jaco a more walkable city?

Christchurch and Jaco both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Jaco is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Christchurch or Jaco. In our opinion, Christchurch has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Christchurch than Jaco. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Jaco. 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 Christchurch than Jaco. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Christchurch that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Jaco 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 Christchurch.

One day in Christchurch or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Christchurch. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Jaco, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this touristy town offers. 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 Jaco?

Christchurch is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Jaco is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Christchurch or Jaco?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Christchurch. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Jaco. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Christchurch or Jaco?

The adventure-filled city of Christchurch offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Jaco is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When comparing the travel costs between Christchurch and Jaco, we can see that Jaco 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 Christchurch is in Pacific and Jaco is in Central America, 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 Christchurch Expensive? and Is Jaco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Jaco?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Jaco, 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 Jaco?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Jaco in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Jaco. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year.

In the summer, Christchurch is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Christchurch in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Jaco averages at about 28°C (82°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. In the summer, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than Jacoin July. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 164 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Jaco. Christchurch usually gets less rain in January than Jacoin July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Jaco in the Autumn?

Both Jaco and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Christchurch is generally much colder than Jacoin October. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Christchurch usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Jaco during autumn. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Jaco. In April, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Jacoin October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Jaco is November to May. June to October is the hurricane season in Jaco.

Should I visit Christchurch or Jaco in the Winter?

Both Jaco and Christchurch during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round.

Christchurch is much colder than Jaco in the winter. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 6°C (43°F) in July, and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in January.

In Jaco, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Jacoin January. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 264 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in July than Jacoin January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Jaco in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Jaco. The spring months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Christchurch is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Christchurch in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Jaco averages at about 29°C (85°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jaco this time of the year. In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Jaco during spring. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Christchurch usually receives more rain than Jacoin April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to May in Jaco is the dry season. June to October in Jaco is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Jaco and Christchurch