A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nara vs. Wellington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Nara or Wellington?

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

Should I visit Nara or Wellington? 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.

Nara

Nara is a traditional, tranquil, and natural city. Nara is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nara travel costs.

Wellington

Wellington is a compact, laid-back, and funky city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Wellington travel costs.

Nara and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nara or Wellington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wellington. Although Nara and Wellington are roughly the same size, Wellington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wellington is better known for its food and beaches, while Nara is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Wellington is more touristy than Nara and is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. Also, Wellington is famous for Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Nara is well known for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer.

How is Nara different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nara or Wellington?

Nara is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Nara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Nara or Wellington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wellington is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Wellington. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Nara and Wellington.

Nara has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Wellington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Beaches?

Wellington is notable for the beach. However, Nara is not a beach destination.

Wellington is considered a top beach destination. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for its Old Town?

Nara is a popular place for its old town. However, Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nara. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Nara is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nara. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Nara or Wellington?

Both Nara and Wellington are high quality shopping destinations.

Nara is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Is Nara or Wellington More Beautiful?

Nara is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Wellington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nara is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is filled with green space, parks, and natural areas. You'll find deer roaming freely and tranquil lawns where you can relax.

Wellington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nara or Wellington.

Nara is a very kid-friendly city. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Wellington. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Couples?

Nara is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Nara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

Wellington is a good city for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wellington is notable for backpackers. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Wellington is a great city to visit for backpackers. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Nara is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Students?

Wellington is a popular place for students. However, Nara is not popular with students.

Wellington is a good city to visit for students. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Nara is not popular with students.

Is Nara or Wellington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Nara and Wellington offer high quality public transit options.

The public transit in Nara can get you around easily. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

Wellington offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

Is Nara or Wellington a more walkable city?

Nara and Wellington both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Nara is a very walkable city. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

For even more information, also check out Is Nara Worth Visiting? and Is Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Nara?

How long in Nara or Wellington?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nara and Wellington. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wellington than in Nara. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nara, and 2-3 days is enough time in Wellington.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wellington than Nara 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 Wellington.

One day in Nara or Wellington?

With museums and nightlife around the natural city of Nara, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nara, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Wellington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Nara or Wellington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Nara, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Wellington 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.

Five days in Nara or Wellington?

Nara, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact destination of Wellington. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nara or Wellington?

Nara is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The compact city of Wellington offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Nara and Wellington, we can see that Wellington 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 Nara is in Asia and Wellington is in Pacific, 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 Nara Expensive? and Is Wellington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nara or Wellington?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Nara. When comparing the sizes of Nara and Wellington, 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 Nara or Wellington?

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

Should I visit Nara or Wellington in the Summer?

Both Wellington and Nara during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Nara because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

Nara is a little warmer than Wellington in the summer. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Wellington fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

In Wellington, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nara often gets less sunshine than Wellingtonin January. Nara gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 242 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. Nara usually gets more rain in July than Wellingtonin January. Nara gets 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nara or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nara and Wellington. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nara this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Wellington for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Nara is a little warmer than Wellington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nara in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Wellington averages at about 15°C (58°F)in April.

Nara usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wellington during autumn. Nara gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 163 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nara usually receives more rain than Wellingtonin April. Nara gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nara or Wellington in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nara as well as Wellington. Many travelers come to Nara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Wellington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nara. In January, Nara is generally much colder than Wellingtonin July. Daily temperatures in Nara average around 4°C (40°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Nara often gets more sunshine than Wellingtonin July. Nara gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 122 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Wellington. Nara usually gets less rain in January than Wellingtonin July. Nara gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nara or Wellington in the Spring?

Both Wellington and Nara are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nara in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches during these months.

Nara is around the same temperature as Wellington in the spring. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in October.

Nara usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wellington during spring. Nara gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Nara. In April, Nara usually receives more rain than Wellingtonin October. Nara gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Wellington and Nara