A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alice Springs vs. Sapporo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Alice Springs or Sapporo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Alice Springs and Sapporo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a outdoorsy, charming, and friendly town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a laid-back, park-filled, and snowy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Alice Springs and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sapporo. Although Alice Springs and Sapporo are popular destinations, Sapporo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sapporo is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Alice Springs attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alice Springs is famous for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. Sapporo is famous for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. It is also well known for Odori Park.

How is Alice Springs different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for skiing. However, Alice Springs is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Alice Springs is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

Alice Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.

Is the Food Better in Alice Springs or Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sapporo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Alice Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Sapporo has something for everybody. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.


Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Hiking?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Alice Springs is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Around Alice Springs visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sapporo. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Alice Springs is a great destination for shopping. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Families?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Both Alice Springs and Sapporo are great to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Alice Springs. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Sapporo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.


Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Both Alice Springs and Sapporo are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Alice Springs is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Sapporo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

For backpackers, both Alice Springs and Sapporo are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Alice Springs. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Students?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Alice Springs is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Alice Springs is not popular with students.


Is Alice Springs or Sapporo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Alice Springs is not known for its public transit.

Sapporo offers a very effecient public transportation network. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Alice Springs or Sapporo a more walkable city?

Alice Springs
Sapporo

Sapporo is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Sapporo is a very walkable destination. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

Alice Springs is somewhat walkable. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Alice Springs?

How long in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alice Springs and Sapporo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Alice Springs than in Sapporo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alice Springs, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sapporo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sapporo than Alice Springs 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 Sapporo.


  • How many days in Alice Springs or Sapporo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alice Springs 2-4 
    Sapporo 2-3

One day in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Alice Springs is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Sapporo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Alice Springs might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alice Springs has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sapporo. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Alice Springs is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant big city of Sapporo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Alice Springs or Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. Since Alice Springs is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Sapporo. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Sapporo or Alice Springs?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alice Springs is $95, while the average daily cost in Sapporo is $106. 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 Alice Springs and Sapporo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alice Springs $50
    Sapporo $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alice Springs $100
    Sapporo $126
Compare Hotels in Alice Springs and Sapporo

Looking for a hotel in Alice Springs or Sapporo? 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 Alice Springs


Hotels in Sapporo


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: Alice Springs Hotel Prices and Sapporo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alice Springs $20
    Sapporo $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alice Springs

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

  • Uluru to Alice Springs or Alice to Uluru 1-Way Luxe Transfer: $127

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sapporo

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

  • Private Transfer: between Sapporo and Upopoy: $467
  • SkyExpress Private Transfer: Sapporo to Otaru (8 Passengers): $289
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo hotels to Muroran Cruise Port: $158
  • Horseback-Riding in a Country Side in Sapporo - Private Transfer is Included: $154
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo City Hotels to Muroran Cruise Port: $143
  • Airport Transfer! Hotel in center of Sapporo to New Chitose Airport (CTS): $140
  • [Airport Transfer] Smoothly move between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport with a private car! one way: $135
  • Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport: $119
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo hotels to Otaru Cruise Port: $93
  • New Chitose Airport ↔ Sapporo, Best Transfer Pick up Service : $66
  • Shin Chitose Airport to/from Sapporo City: Shared Transfer: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Prices for flights to both Sapporo and Alice Springs 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
    Alice Springs $24
    Sapporo $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alice Springs

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

  • From Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner: $219
  • Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner: $233

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sapporo

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

  • Private Market Tour, Cooking Class and Lunch with a Local in Sapporo: $82
  • Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour: $82
  • Japanese Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Local Professional in her Lovely Home: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alice Springs $14
    Sapporo $16

Tours and Activities in Alice Springs

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

  • A Town Like Alice: Half-Day Tour of Alice Springs: $95
  • Alice Springs Camel Tour: $59
  • Alice Springs Desert Park General Entry Ticket: $26
  • Alice Springs Desert Park Nocturnal Tour: $28
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $109
  • West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour: $121
  • Alice Town And Country Half Day Sunset Tour - Small Group: $125
  • Alice Town and Country Half Day Sunset Tour -Small Group: $123
  • Australia’s Red Centre: A Self-Guided West Macs Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Best of Alice Springs Full Day Tour: $162
  • East Mac's Adventure Day Tour Mondays and Fridays: $125
  • East MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group: $225

Tours and Activities in Sapporo

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

  • 2 Day Tour to Icebreaker Mombetsu and Asahiyama Zoo in Hokkaido: $275
  • A Japanese food experience plan in Sapporo where you can enjoy tempura and 3 types of Hokkaido-only sake along with a soba making experience!: $82
  • Experience Hokkaido's Summer, Furano, Blue Pond & All-you-can-eat Fresh Melon! : $99
  • Experience traditional Japanese cuisine, making soba noodles in Sapporo, in a fun and casual way.: $53
  • Exploring Hokkaido Nightlife Susukino Evening Walking Tour: $131
  • Friday only! A Japanese food experience where you can enjoy hand-made soba noodles and a luxurious Japanese lunch! !: $164
  • From 10-hour Customized Private Tour to Noboribetsu: $2,287
  • From Private Customized Day Tour to Biei+Furano: $699
  • From Private Customized Day Tour to Otaru: $655
  • Full Day Tour Hokkaido Biei Green Pond and Furano Flower Sea: $141
  • Half-day (4 hours) Sapporo city Tour: $184
  • Hand-rolled sushi experience tour at Sapporo Nijo Market: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alice Springs $17
    Sapporo $7.98
Typical Alcohol Prices in Alice Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Alice Springs:


  • Glass of Wine in Alice Springs
    $4.54


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


Which is Bigger, Alice Springs or Sapporo?

Sapporo has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Alice Springs. When comparing the sizes of Alice Springs and Sapporo, 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.