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

Should you visit Brisbane or Dunedin?

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

Brisbane

Brisbane is a relaxed, diverse, and cultural coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Brisbane travel costs.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a hilly, cultural, and vibrant city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Dunedin travel costs.

Brisbane and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or Dunedin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brisbane than Dunedin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brisbane is famous for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. It is also well known for the Cultural Centre. Dunedin is famous for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

How is Brisbane different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Dunedin 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 Dunedin can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

Is the Food Better in Brisbane or Dunedin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Brisbane and Dunedin can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Brisbane is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Dunedin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both Brisbane and Dunedin.

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.

Dunedin has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dunedin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Brisbane has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Dunedin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is well known for the beach. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Brisbane is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Dunedin to enjoy the beach. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

You'll find nice hiking in both Brisbane and Dunedin.

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.

Dunedin has hiking trails worth exploring. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Dunedin?

If you're looking to go shopping, Brisbane and Dunedin both offer plenty of great 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.

Dunedin is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Dunedin.

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.

Dunedin is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Both Brisbane and Dunedin are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

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

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Brisbane and Dunedin are great 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 Dunedin. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Students?

For students, both Brisbane and Dunedin are great 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.

Dunedin is a great coastal city to visit as a student. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brisbane and Dunedin both offer nice 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.

Dunedin has a few public transit options. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Is Brisbane or Dunedin a more walkable city?

Brisbane and Dunedin are great when it comes to walkability.

Brisbane is a very walkable destination. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

Dunedin is very walkable. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Brisbane Worth Visiting? and Is Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brisbane and Dunedin. In our opinion, Brisbane has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Brisbane than Dunedin. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brisbane than Dunedin 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 Dunedin?

In Brisbane, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal 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 Dunedin offers food and shopping. 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 Brisbane or Dunedin?

In Brisbane, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Brisbane has to offer.

Dunedin 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 Dunedin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brisbane or Dunedin?

Brisbane 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.

Dunedin 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 Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brisbane. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Brisbane. 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.

Dunedin is a great place to explore. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Dunedin?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Dunedin. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane and Dunedin, 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.