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

Should you visit Brisbane or Auckland?

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 Brisbane and Auckland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a active, relaxed, and diverse coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Brisbane and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or Auckland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Auckland than Brisbane. While Brisbane is larger than Auckland, Auckland has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Auckland is more popular for its food and big city activities, while Brisbane is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Auckland is more touristy than Brisbane and is known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower. Brisbane is popular for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.

How is Brisbane different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Auckland and Brisbane.

Many visitors head to Brisbane specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

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 Brisbane or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Auckland has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Brisbane or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is very good in both Brisbane and Auckland.

Many people head to Brisbane for the nightlife scene. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

Auckland has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Brisbane or Auckland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Brisbane. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Brisbane and Auckland are very good choices for a beach vacation.

Brisbane is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

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.

Is Brisbane or Auckland Better for Hiking?

You'll find good hiking in both Brisbane and Auckland.

Many people include a hike when visiting Brisbane. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

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 Brisbane or Auckland?

If you're looking to go shopping, Brisbane and Auckland both offer plenty of very good spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Brisbane. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

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.

Is Brisbane or Auckland Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Auckland is 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 Brisbane or Auckland Better for Couples?

Auckland is great for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Auckland is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Brisbane or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Brisbane and Auckland are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

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.

Is Brisbane or Auckland Better for Students?

For students, both Brisbane and Auckland are very good places to visit.

Brisbane is very popular with students. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Auckland is a great coastal 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 Brisbane or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brisbane and Auckland both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Brisbane offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Auckland has a few 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.

Is Brisbane or Auckland a more walkable city?

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

Brisbane is a very walkable coastal city. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city 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 Brisbane Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brisbane and Auckland. 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 Brisbane than Auckland. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Brisbane, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Auckland than Brisbane. 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 Brisbane 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 Brisbane.

One day in Brisbane or Auckland?

The coastal city of Brisbane offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Auckland is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Brisbane or Auckland?

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

Auckland 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Auckland, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brisbane or Auckland?

Brisbane 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.

Auckland 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 Brisbane or Auckland?

Brisbane is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Auckland is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Auckland, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Auckland?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Brisbane or Auckland in the Summer?

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

In January, Brisbane is generally a little warmer than Auckland. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 25°C (77°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auckland this time of the year. In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brisbane usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auckland during summer. Brisbane gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

Brisbane gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Auckland. Brisbane gets 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brisbane or Auckland in the Autumn?

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

Brisbane is a little warmer than Auckland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 22°C (71°F) in April, and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In the autumn, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Auckland. Brisbane gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun.

Brisbane receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Brisbane usually gets more rain in April than Auckland. Brisbane gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Auckland in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Brisbane is a little warmer than Auckland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brisbane in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Auckland averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during winter. Brisbane gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Auckland. In July, Brisbane usually receives less rain than Auckland. Brisbane gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brisbane or Auckland in the Spring?

Both Auckland and Brisbane during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Brisbane in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In October, Brisbane is generally a little warmer than Auckland. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 21°C (69°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. In the spring, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Auckland. Brisbane gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun.

Brisbane usually gets more rain in October than Auckland. Brisbane gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Brisbane