A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. Birmingham for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Auckland or Birmingham?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Birmingham can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Auckland travel costs.

Birmingham

Birmingham is a historic, vibrant, and fun-filled city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Birmingham travel costs.

Auckland and Birmingham: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Birmingham?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Auckland than Birmingham. While Birmingham is larger than Auckland, Auckland has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Auckland is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Birmingham attracts visitors for its theatre productions, music, and quaint atmosphere. Auckland is more touristy than Birmingham and is known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower. Birmingham is famous for its strong musical routes and its very livable atmosphere.

How is Auckland different from Birmingham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Birmingham?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Auckland and Birmingham.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Birmingham can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Museum & Art Gallery, Thinktank, and St. Philip's Cathedral.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Theater?

Birmingham is an excellent place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Auckland is not a theatre destination.

Birmingham has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The impressive theater scene includes Broadway shows and musicals. Birmingham Hippodrome is a major theater in town.

Auckland is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or Birmingham? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auckland is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Auckland. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Birmingham. Food reviews are mixed around town. The city has its share of award-winning restaurants, but there are also popular dishes that are more of an acquired taste. Local flavors include pork scratching, Birmingham soup, and brummie bacon cakes.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Nightlife?

Both Auckland and Birmingham have very good vibes after the sun sets.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

The people in Birmingham know how to have a good time. With tons of students and young people looking to party, there is plenty to do in the evening. You'll find no shortage of pubs, clubs, and music venues around town.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Music?

Birmingham is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Auckland is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Birmingham. The city has long been a haven for musical creativity, and its influence over the global music scene is apparent. Popular music venues around town include Ghetto Golf, Digbeth Dining Club, and the Sunflower Lounge.

Auckland is not a live music destination.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Beaches?

Auckland is great for its beaches. However, Birmingham is not a beach destination.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Birmingham is not a beach destination.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Hiking?

Auckland is very good for hiking. However, Birmingham is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Birmingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Birmingham?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Auckland and Birmingham.

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Birmingham. The city offers everything from large department stores to smaller local shops. There are several good shopping streets around town as well as large markets and even a jewelry quarter.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Auckland or Birmingham.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Birmingham is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has put effort into making sure there are plenty of family-friendly activities around. You can visit a chocolate factory, explore an aquarium, enjoy an animal safari, or explore one of the hands-on museums.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Couples?

Both Auckland and Birmingham are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Couples visit Birmingham frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Romantic activities around town include taking a beautiful stroll through town, wandering around a park or garden, or seeing the ballet.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Birmingham is not a good destination for backpackers.

Auckland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Birmingham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there's at least one affordable hostel in town.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Students?

Birmingham is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Birmingham. With world class academic institutions and a very diverse and international population, this is a popular place for international students to study.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Is Auckland or Birmingham Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Auckland and Birmingham.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Birmingham, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a reasonably comprehensive bus system.

Is Auckland or Birmingham a more walkable city?

Birmingham is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Birmingham is a very walkable city. Many parts of the city are very walkable.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Birmingham Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Birmingham or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Birmingham?

In either Auckland or Birmingham, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Birmingham than Auckland because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 1-5 days is enough time in Birmingham.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Birmingham 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 Auckland.

One day in Auckland or Birmingham?

When visiting Auckland, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Birmingham offers shopping and museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Birmingham?

When visiting Auckland, people usually allow for lots of time. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Birmingham is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Birmingham, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Birmingham?

Auckland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Birmingham is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Birmingham, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Birmingham?

Auckland 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.

Birmingham is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Birmingham?

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

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

Should I visit Auckland or Birmingham in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Birmingham. The summer months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Birmingham this time of year.

In January, Auckland is generally a little warmer than Birminghamin July. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 20°C (68°F), and Birmingham fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Auckland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Birmingham during summer. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Birmingham receives 196 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Auckland usually receives more rain than Birminghamin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Birmingham receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Auckland or Birmingham in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Birmingham. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Birmingham for the shopping scene and the music scene.

Auckland is a little warmer than Birmingham in the autumn. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Birmingham fluctuates around 11°C (52°F)in October.

In the autumn, Auckland often gets more sunshine than Birminghamin October. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Birmingham receives 103 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in April than Birminghamin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Birmingham receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Birmingham in the Winter?

Both Birmingham and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Birmingham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Birmingham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Auckland is much warmer than Birmingham. Typically, the winter temperatures in Auckland in July average around 11°C (52°F), and Birmingham averages at about 3°C (38°F)in January.

Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Birmingham during winter. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Birmingham receives 58 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Auckland. In July, Auckland usually receives more rain than Birminghamin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Birmingham receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Auckland or Birmingham in the Spring?

Both Birmingham and Auckland during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Auckland in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In October, Auckland is generally much warmer than Birminghamin April. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 14°C (58°F), and Birmingham fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Auckland often gets more sunshine than Birminghamin April. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Birmingham receives 136 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in October than Birminghamin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Birmingham receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Birmingham and Auckland