A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cairns vs. Wellington for Nightlife, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Cairns or Wellington?

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

Should I visit Cairns or Wellington? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cairns

Cairns is a idyllic, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Wellington

Wellington is a laid-back, funky, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cairns and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cairns or Wellington?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cairns than Wellington. While Wellington is larger than Cairns, Cairns has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cairns is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Wellington is known for its museums & sights. Cairns is more touristy than Wellington and is known for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. It is also home to the Great Barrier Reef. Wellington is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches.

How is Cairns different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cairns or Wellington?

Wellington is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

Cairns offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time exploring nature and the outdoors, but there are some interesting cultural sights around town as well. Make sure you check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park as well as the Cairns Aquarium.

Is the Food Better in Cairns or Wellington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Cairns and Wellington.

Cairns has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Wellington makes for a great culinary experience. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Cairns is a world class party destination. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

Wellington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Resorts?

Cairns is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Wellington is not a resort destination.

Cairns is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are many beautiful resorts that offer access to the beach and have impressive pools. There are family-friendly resorts, romantic resorts, and even some budget-friendly options.

Wellington is not a resort destination.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wellington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cairns a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. It's access to the Great Barrier Reef make this one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. The undersea world is filled with colorful coral, diverse tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and a truly magical setting.

Wellington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Beaches?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cairns. Near town you'll find stunningly beautiful beaches that range from hubs of activity to quiet coves. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is the closest beach to the city center and it has a sandy beach and plenty of amenities. For a quieter setting, head north to Holloways Beach or to the family-friendly Yorkeys Knob Beach. Do take note that if the beach doesn't have a stinger net, then it's recommended you wear a stinger suit (to avoid jellyfish stings).

Wellington is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Cairns specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Near town you'll find wonderful national parks, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountain ranges. There are countless bush walks and hiking trails in the area. Head into the countryside and you'll get lost in nature and breathtaking views.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Cairns or Wellington?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Cairns and Wellington.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cairns. There's plenty of shopping around town in the form of shopping centers, markets, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking for trendy fashion or a fun souvenir, there are many places to explore.

Wellington is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Families?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cairns is a very family-friendly destination. With the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest nearby, this is a playground for kids and adults alike. There are sandy beaches, rainforest walks, turtle rehabilitation centers, scenic railways, adventure sports, and so much more.

Wellington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Couples?

Cairns is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cairns makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful tropical setting with world class beaches and diverse marine life. Couples who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will love this amazing destination. You can experience the area's wildlife, relax on sandy beaches, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. There is plenty of luxury, but also adventure-filled activities to choose from.

Wellington is a good city for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Cairns is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers flock to this coastal town for its easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and its many activities and vibrant energy. There are adventure sports, wild nightclubs, and no shortage of places to hang out with other backpackers.

Wellington is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Students?

Wellington is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairns is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Cairns is not popular with students.

Is Cairns or Wellington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

The public transit in Wellington can get you to most places easily. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

You'll find some public transit in Cairns, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

Is Cairns or Wellington a more walkable city?

Wellington is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

Cairns is generally not very walkable. While you can walk around many parts of the city center, most visitors want to head into the rainforest or experience the nearby day trips, which require a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Cairns Worth Visiting? and Is Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Cairns?

How long in Cairns or Wellington?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cairns and Wellington. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cairns than in Wellington. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Cairns, and 2-3 days is enough time in Wellington.

Families should spend more time in Cairns than Wellington. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cairns, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cairns than Wellington 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 Cairns.

One day in Cairns or Wellington?

With shopping and nightlife around the idyllic city of Cairns, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wellington. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cairns or Wellington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Cairns, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Wellington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cairns or Wellington?

Cairns, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wellington. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cairns or Wellington?

Cairns is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the funky destination of Wellington. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Cairns and Wellington, we can see that Wellington 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 Cairns Expensive? and Is Wellington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cairns or Wellington?

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

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 Cairns or Wellington in the Summer?

Both Wellington and Cairns are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cairns because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

In January, Cairns is generally much warmer than Wellington. Daily temperatures in Cairns average around 29°C (84°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Cairns. In January, Cairns usually receives more rain than Wellington. Cairns gets 429 mm (16.9 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Cairns is November to March.

Should I visit Cairns or Wellington in the Autumn?

Both Wellington and Cairns during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cairns this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Wellington for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Cairns is much warmer than Wellington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cairns averages around 27°C (80°F) in April, and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cairns. Cairns usually gets more rain in April than Wellington. Cairns gets 273 mm (10.8 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year. April to October is the dry season in Cairns.

Should I visit Cairns or Wellington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cairns and Wellington. Many travelers come to Cairns for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wellington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cairns is much warmer than Wellington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cairns in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Wellington averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Wellington receives a lot of rain in the winter. In July, Cairns usually receives less rain than Wellington. Cairns gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cairns or Wellington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cairns as well as Wellington. Many visitors come to Cairns in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches during these months.

In October, Cairns is generally much warmer than Wellington. Daily temperatures in Cairns average around 27°C (80°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Cairns usually gets less rain in October than Wellington. Cairns gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to October in Cairns is the dry season. November to March in Cairns is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Wellington and Cairns