A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Christchurch for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ao Nang or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Christchurch? 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.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a beachfront, lively, and accessible town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Ao Nang and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Christchurch?

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

How is Ao Nang different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Christchurch?

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

Christchurch offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

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

Christchurch is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang 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.

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Ao Nang and Christchurch.

Ao Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

Christchurch is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is well known for its resorts. However, Christchurch is not a resort destination.

Ao Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Christchurch is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

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

Christchurch is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Ao Nang to enjoy the beach. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang 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.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Christchurch?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ao Nang 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.

Ao Nang is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Families?

Christchurch is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Christchurch is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Christchurch is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ao Nang 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.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang and Christchurch are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch Better for Students?

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

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

Ao Nang is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Ao Nang and Christchurch.

Ao Nang has some public transit options. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

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.

Is Ao Nang or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Ao Nang and Christchurch are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Ao Nang is a very walkable destination. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Ao Nang or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Christchurch due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Ao Nang 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 Ao Nang or Christchurch?

In Ao Nang, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beachfront town offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

In Christchurch, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Christchurch?

Ao Nang is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In Christchurch, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Christchurch has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Christchurch?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beachfront destination of Ao Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Christchurch is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

A week in Ao Nang or Christchurch?

Ao Nang is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Christchurch. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Christchurch, we can see that Ao Nang 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 Ao Nang is in Asia and Christchurch 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 Ao Nang Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Christchurch, 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 Ao Nang or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch and Ao Nang during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

In July, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Christchurchin January. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 28°C (82°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. In the summer, Ao Nang often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin January. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in July than Christchurchin January. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. August to October is the rainy season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Christchurch in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Christchurch. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Also, many travelers come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Ao Nang is much warmer than Christchurch in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in April.

Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during autumn. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ao Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Christchurchin April. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Ao Nang is the dry season. Also, August to October is the rainy season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Christchurch. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Christchurch in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Ao Nang is much warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ao Nang in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Christchurch averages at about 6°C (43°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. In the winter, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Christchurchin July. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun.

Ao Nang usually gets less rain in January than Christchurchin July. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Ao Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Christchurch in the Spring?

Both Christchurch and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Christchurchin October. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 29°C (84°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Christchurch. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during spring. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In April, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Christchurchin October. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Ao Nang