A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Canberra for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Canberra?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Canberra. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Athens is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Athens travel costs.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Canberra travel costs.

Athens and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Acropolis
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Athens or Canberra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens than Canberra, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Athens is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is known for its hiking. Athens is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Canberra?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.


Is the Food Better in Athens or Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Athens or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Athens is a must-see party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Athens or Canberra Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is terrific for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.


Is Athens or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Athens
Canberra

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Canberra offers some nice hiking trails. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Canberra?

Athens
Canberra

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Canberra both offer plenty of good spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Canberra is a great destination for shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Athens or Canberra More Beautiful?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.

Athens is a beautiful place to visit, too. With it's stunning archaeological sites, Athens is most beautiful at night, when things light up.

Canberra is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Athens or Canberra Better for Families?

Athens
Canberra

Both Athens and Canberra are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Canberra is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Athens or Canberra Better for Couples?

Athens
Canberra

Athens and Canberra both good destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Canberra is a nice destination for couples. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Athens or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.


Is Athens or Canberra Better for Students?

Athens
Canberra

For students, both Athens and Canberra are superb places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Is Athens or Canberra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Athens has some very good public transit options. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Athens or Canberra a more walkable city?

Athens
Canberra

Athens is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.


For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Athens?

How long in Athens or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Canberra. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Canberra 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 Athens.


  • How many days in Athens or Canberra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Canberra 2-3

One day in Athens or Canberra?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Canberra. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Canberra?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Canberra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Canberra?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Canberra. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Athens or Canberra?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Canberra. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Canberra or Athens?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €154, while the average daily cost in Canberra is €126. 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 Athens and Canberra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Canberra 78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Canberra 156
Compare Hotels in Athens and Canberra

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Canberra? 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 Athens


Hotels in Canberra


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: Athens Hotel Prices and Canberra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Canberra 23
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • VipTransfer From /To Athens Airport - Lavrio Port : $211
  • Vip Transfer From/To Piraeus Port - Athens Airport: $277
  • Vip Transfer From/To Athens Center - Lavrio Port: $277
  • Vip Transfer From /To Athens Center - Athens Airport : $222
  • VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 4 persons: $90
  • VIP High Class Limos & Chauffeurs Transfer to Athens: $67
  • VIP Ferry Ticket From Piraeus Port To Santorini & Private Transfer Included: $254
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Athens APT-HTL (ATH): $63
  • Transfers and Guided Tours in all over Greece, sightseeing and Private hire!!: $95
  • Transfer services from/to Athens Airport: $106
  • Transfer services everywhere in Mykonos with Jeep Renegade: $28
  • Transfer from/to Piraeus Port and Athens city centre hotel: $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

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

  • Canberra Transfer: Airport(CBR)to/from City Center: $100
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $83
  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $83
  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68
  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport (CBR) Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Int'l Airport (CBR) to Canberra Arrival Private Transfer: $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Canberra?

Prices for flights to both Canberra and Athens 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
    Athens 64
    Canberra 33
Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Souvlaki
    2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $24
  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $47
  • Athens walking and tasting food tour.: $54
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $54
  • "A Night in Dinner and Music Under the Stars": $60
  • Koukaki Food Tour with a Local Friend: $61
  • Greek Spirits & Meze, Food Tour in Athens: $63
  • Street Food Tour - Sample the Food the Locals Love: $65
  • Eat like an Athenian food tour of Athens: $65
  • Light Lunch Tasting & Cooking Demo: $68
  • Traditional Greek food tour in hidden spots: $70

Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    15

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Canberra 16

Tours and Activities in Athens

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

  • Athens Gems & Charms for the First Time Cruiser: $76
  • Epidavros Nafplio Canal Private Tour From Athens 6 hours : $190
  • Food Experience in Athens including Unlimited Lunch : $64
  • Highlights Athens History Tour: $37
  • Layover Private Tour in Athens: $249
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Full Day Private Tour From Athens 8 H: $184
  • Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Full-Day V.R audio guided Tour: $44
  • Traditional Villages Full day Tour in Santorini: $60
  • ''All day tour to Famous Sites of Athens and Cape Sounion": $311
  • "All Day Tour with Private Luxurius Car": $280
  • "Half-Day Acropolis and Downtown Private Tour in 4h": $156
  • "Mythology Highlights Tour with Private Driver": $171

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Family Walking Tour in Canberra in Capital Wonders: $201
  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Badass Women of The Women Behind the Capital Tour: $39
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $100
  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Canberra Small Group Winery Tour: $150
  • 2-Day Batemans Bay Kayaking and Camping Tour: $426
  • Best of Wildlife Tour: $89
  • City Highlights Day Tour with Entrance Fees: $117
  • Capital Christmas: Private Festive Tour in Canberra: $652
  • Capital Wonders: A Family Walking Tour in Canberra: $395

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Canberra 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:

  • Polykala Distillery showroom. A125 years of history along with liqueur tasting.: $16
  • The NightCrawlers | Athens Bar Hopping | Pub Crawl: $18
  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $18
  • Athens Party Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks & Nightclub Access: $20
  • Athens Party Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks & Club Access: $22
  • Athens, Greece: Friday & Saturday Night Bar Crawl: $22
  • Small-Group Rooftop & Offbeat Night Gems Pub Crawl: $38
  • Small-Group Rooftop & Offbeat Nightlife Gems Pub Crawl: $39
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $43
  • Organic and Vegan Indigenous Wine Tasting Private Experience: $44
  • Old Town Acropolis Wine Tasting: $53
  • Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $53

Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    8.63

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

Also in Canberra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Indulgence Wine Tasting with Matched Elements for 2 - Canberra: $87
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $148
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $160
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $164
  • Premium Wine Tasting Experience and 2-Course Lunch: $181


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

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


Which is Bigger, Athens or Canberra?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Canberra, 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 Athens or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Athens or Canberra in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Canberra. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Canberrain January. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Canberrain January. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Canberra 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Athens or Canberra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Canberra. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Canberra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Athens is a little warmer than Canberra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Canberra. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Canberrain April. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Canberra 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Athens or Canberra in the Winter?

Both Canberra and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Athens is around the same temperature as Canberra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Canberra averages at about 11°C (52°F)in July.

In January, Athens usually receives around the same amount of rain as Canberrain July. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Canberra 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Athens or Canberra in the Spring?

Both Canberra and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Canberra because of the activities around the city.

In April, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Canberrain October. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Canberrain October. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Canberra 15°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Canberra and Athens

Athens Canberra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)