A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Canberra vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Canberra or Paris?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Paris? 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 under-rated, cultural, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Canberra and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Canberra. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Canberra attracts visitors for its hiking. Paris is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Canberra is famous for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Canberra different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Paris are world-renowned. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Canberra is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Canberra is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Canberra or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is terrific for its live music scene. However, Canberra is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Paris. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Canberra is not a live music destination.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a popular place for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Paris?

Paris is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Paris draws large crowds to its stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Canberra does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Paris draws large crowds. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Canberra does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Canberra is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Paris is extremely popular for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

Paris is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Canberra is very popular with students. 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.

Is Canberra or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Canberra or Paris a more walkable city?

Paris is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Canberra Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Paris?

Both Canberra and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Canberra. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Canberra, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Canberra 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 Paris.

One day in Canberra or Paris?

In Canberra, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Paris 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 Canberra or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Canberra or Paris?

Canberra is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Canberra. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, 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 Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse destination of Canberra. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. This city 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra and Paris, 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 Canberra or Paris?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Paris in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Paris. The summer months attract visitors to Canberra because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In January, Canberra is generally around the same temperature as Parisin July. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 20°C (68°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In January, Canberra usually receives more rain than Parisin July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Canberra or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Paris. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Canberra this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Canberra is a little warmer than Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 17°C (63°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F)in October.

Canberra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Canberra usually gets more rain in April than Parisin October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Canberra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Canberra is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Canberra in July average around 11°C (52°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F)in January.

In July, Canberra usually receives less rain than Parisin January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Canberra or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Canberra during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Canberra in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In October, Canberra is generally a little warmer than Parisin April. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 15°C (60°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Canberra usually gets more rain in October than Parisin April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Canberra