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

Should you visit Auckland or Boston?

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 Boston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and thrill-seeking city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Auckland and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston than Auckland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Auckland attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and shopping. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail.

How is Auckland different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston 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 Boston?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Theater?

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

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Auckland is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Auckland and Boston offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Auckland has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Boston is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Both Auckland and Boston have high quality 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 Boston know how to have a good time. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is very good for its live music scene. However, Auckland is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Auckland is not a live music destination.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Beaches?

Auckland is notable for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Many people visit Auckland for it's beautiful 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.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Hiking?

Auckland is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Auckland offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Boston?

Auckland is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Auckland is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Auckland does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Auckland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Auckland does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to Boston to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Auckland does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Families?

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

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Couples?

Auckland is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Auckland. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Auckland or Boston Better for Students?

Boston 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 Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

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 Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Boston has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Is Auckland or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Boston?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Boston 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 Boston?

Auckland is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Boston offers shopping and museums. 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.

A weekend in Auckland or Boston?

Auckland 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.

Boston 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.

Five days in Auckland or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boston, 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 Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of Auckland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Boston is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auckland and Boston, we can see that Boston 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 Boston is in North America, 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Boston, 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 Boston?

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 Boston has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Auckland or Boston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Boston. Many visitors come to Auckland in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In January, Auckland is generally cooler than Bostonin July. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 20°C (68°F), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auckland this time of the year. In the summer, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Bostonin July. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets less rain in January than Bostonin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Boston in the Autumn?

Both Boston and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Auckland is a little warmer than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C)in October.

Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Boston during autumn. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Auckland usually receives more rain than Bostonin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Auckland or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Auckland during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Auckland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. In the winter, Auckland is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Auckland in July average around 11°C (52°F), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C)in January.

In the winter, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Bostonin January. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Auckland. Auckland usually gets more rain in July than Bostonin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Boston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Boston. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Boston during spring. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Auckland usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bostonin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Auckland