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

Should you visit Beijing or Auckland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Auckland can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a cultural, fascinating, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Beijing travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a thrill-seeking, cosmopolitan , and adventurous 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.

Beijing and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Auckland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing than Auckland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Beijing is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auckland is known for its beaches and hiking. Beijing is more touristy than Auckland and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment.

How is Beijing different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing 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 Beijing are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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

Beijing is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Beijing has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Beijing or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Auckland has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

The nightlife in Auckland has something for everybody. 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.

Is Beijing or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a great destination for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Auckland attract visitors from all over. 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.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Beijing or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Auckland is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Auckland?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Auckland and Beijing.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Beijing or Auckland More Beautiful?

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

Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beijing or Auckland Better for Families?

Auckland is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Auckland Better for Couples?

Auckland is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing and Auckland are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

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.

Is Beijing or Auckland Better for Students?

Beijing and Auckland are superb places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

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

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

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

The public transit in Beijing can get you around easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

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 Beijing or Auckland a more walkable city?

Beijing and Auckland both are decent when exploring on foot.

Beijing is generally not very walkable. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

Auckland is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Auckland?

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

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

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

One day in Beijing or Auckland?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Auckland, 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 Beijing or Auckland?

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

In Auckland, you'll find food and shopping. 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.

Five days in Beijing or Auckland?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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.

A week in Beijing or Auckland?

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

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Auckland?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Auckland, 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 Beijing or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Beijing or Auckland in the Summer?

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

In July, Beijing is generally a little warmer than Aucklandin January. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auckland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the summer, Beijing often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aucklandin January. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Aucklandin January. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Auckland in the Autumn?

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

Beijing is cooler than Auckland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Aucklandin April. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Auckland in the Winter?

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

The weather in Beijing can be very cold. In the winter, Beijing is much colder than Auckland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Auckland averages at about 11°C (52°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Aucklandin July. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun.

Auckland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Aucklandin July. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Auckland in the Spring?

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

In April, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Aucklandin October. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Aucklandin October. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Beijing