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

Should you visit Brisbane or Houston?

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

Brisbane

Brisbane is a relaxed, diverse, and cultural coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brisbane and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or Houston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Brisbane than Houston. While Houston is larger than Brisbane, Brisbane has more sights and attractions for tourists. Brisbane is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Houston is known for its music and big city activities. Brisbane is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. It is also home to the Cultural Centre. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Brisbane different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Houston 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 Houston can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Brisbane and Houston can be difficult as they are each good 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.

Houston offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Brisbane and Houston.

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.

Houston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is very good for its music scene. However, Brisbane is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Brisbane is not a live music destination.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Brisbane. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is well known for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Brisbane for it's beautiful 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Brisbane offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Houston?

Brisbane is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Brisbane is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Houston.

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.

Houston is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Couples?

Both Brisbane and Houston are good 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.

Houston is a nice destination for couples. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brisbane is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Brisbane is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Brisbane or Houston Better for Students?

Brisbane is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Brisbane. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Brisbane is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Brisbane or Houston a more walkable city?

Brisbane is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known 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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Houston?

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

Families should spend more time in Brisbane than Houston. 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 Houston. 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 Houston 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 Houston?

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.

Houston 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.

A weekend in Brisbane or Houston?

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.

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

Five days in Brisbane or Houston?

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.

Houston 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 Houston?

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.

Houston 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Houston?

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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Brisbane is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Houston has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Brisbane or Houston in the Summer?

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

In January, Brisbane is generally cooler than Houstonin July. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 25°C (77°F), and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Brisbane receives a lot of rain in the summer. Brisbane usually gets more rain in January than Houstonin July. Brisbane gets 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Houston in the Autumn?

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

Brisbane is around the same temperature as Houston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 22°C (71°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. It's quite rainy in Brisbane. In April, Brisbane usually receives around the same amount of rain as Houstonin October. Brisbane gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brisbane or Houston in the Winter?

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

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

Brisbane usually gets less rain in July than Houstonin January. Brisbane gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Houston in the Spring?

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

In October, Brisbane is generally around the same temperature as Houstonin April. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 21°C (69°F), and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In October, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Houstonin April. Brisbane gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Houston and Brisbane