A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Canberra vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park? 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.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Canberra and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Canberra than Mount Aspiring National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Canberra is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. Also, Canberra is famous for the Australian War Memorial. Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Canberra different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Canberra. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Canberra is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Canberra can be an interesting and educational experience. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Canberra is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Canberra. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Canberra is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Canberra. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.


Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Canberra is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Canberra offers some nice shopping areas. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Mount Aspiring National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.


Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Mount Aspiring National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Canberra is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Canberra is a great city to visit as a student. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Canberra is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Canberra has a few public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.


Is Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Canberra
Mount Aspiring National Park

Canberra and Mount Aspiring National Park are notable when it comes to walkability.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Canberra Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Canberra because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Canberra, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Canberra than Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Canberra.


  • How many days in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Canberra 2-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The under-rated destination of Canberra offers shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful national park of Mount Aspiring National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Canberra has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mount Aspiring National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Canberra is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mount Aspiring National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse city of Canberra. It offers something for everyone. One week 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Canberra?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Canberra is $133, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Canberra and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Canberra $82
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Canberra $164
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
Compare Hotels in Canberra and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Canberra


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Canberra Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Canberra $24
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

Also for Canberra, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $82
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $82
  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Canberra or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Canberra change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Canberra $34
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18
Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $16

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Canberra $17
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Museum Highlights Tour | 1pm Daily: $13
  • First Australians Tour | 3pm Daily: $13
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • LGBTQIA+ History Walking Tour: $33
  • Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines: $39
  • Women's History Walking Tour with Local Guide: $40
  • Spies in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour: $40
  • Best of Wildlife Tour: $88
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $98
  • Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tasting Tour: $111

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Canberra $16
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09
Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    $9.08

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

Also in Canberra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $98
  • Canberra Brewery Winery and Distillery Tour: $112
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $121
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $123
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $147
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $158
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $162


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Canberra Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.