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

Should you visit Auckland or Seattle?

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

Auckland

Auckland is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and thrill-seeking city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Auckland travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and theater. See Seattle travel costs.

Auckland and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle than Auckland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, music, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Auckland is known for its beaches and shopping. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Auckland different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Seattle can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is very good for its theatre productions. However, Auckland is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Auckland is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Auckland and Seattle offer a number of excellent 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 Seattle is an experience not to be missed. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Both Auckland and Seattle have excellent 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 Seattle know how to have a good time. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Auckland is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Seattle has diverse options. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Auckland is not a live music destination.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Auckland is notable for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Seattle?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Auckland or Seattle More Beautiful?

Seattle is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Families?

Auckland is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Couples?

Auckland is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Auckland or Seattle Better for Students?

Both Auckland and Seattle are excellent destinations for students.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Seattle is a great city to visit as a student. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Auckland and Seattle.

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 Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Auckland or Seattle a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Auckland and Seattle. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Auckland than Seattle. 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.

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

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

Because Auckland is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

The city of Seattle offers shopping and museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Seattle?

Because Auckland is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Auckland has to offer.

Seattle 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Seattle?

Auckland 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.

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Auckland. 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.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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

Should I visit Auckland or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Seattle. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Auckland is around the same temperature as Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Auckland in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auckland this time of the year. In the summer, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Seattlein July. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in January than Seattlein July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Auckland is generally a little warmer than Seattlein October. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 16°C (61°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Auckland usually receives more rain than Seattlein October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Auckland or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Auckland during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Auckland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Auckland is much warmer than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C)in January.

In the winter, Auckland often gets more sunshine than Seattlein January. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

Seattle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Auckland. Auckland usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Seattlein January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Seattle. Most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Auckland is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Auckland in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during spring. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Auckland usually receives more rain than Seattlein April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Auckland