A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Auckland for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cesis or Auckland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Auckland can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a natural, traditional, and quaint town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a thrill-seeking, cosmopolitan , and adventurous city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Auckland travel costs.

Cesis and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Cesis or Auckland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Auckland than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Auckland is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Cesis is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Auckland is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower. Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Auckland?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Auckland. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Auckland. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Auckland is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for the beach. However, Cesis is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Auckland attract visitors from all over. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Cesis is not a beach destination.


Is Cesis or Auckland Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Auckland

Cesis is a decent place to visit for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

You can check out the historic old town in Cesis. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Auckland

Both Cesis and Auckland are destinations which offer notable hiking.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cesis. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Auckland offers some nice hiking trails. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Auckland?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Auckland is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cesis or Auckland More Beautiful?

Cesis
Auckland

Cesis is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Families?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Auckland is a very kid-friendly city. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Couples?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.


Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Auckland is a great city to visit for backpackers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Students?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is well known for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Cesis is not popular with students.

Is Cesis or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
Auckland

Auckland is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.


Is Cesis or Auckland a more walkable city?

Cesis
Auckland

Cesis is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cesis and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Auckland than in Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Cesis 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 Auckland.


  • How many days in Cesis or Auckland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Auckland 2-3

One day in Cesis or Auckland?

Cesis is a small town where visitors enjoy the . With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Auckland has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

A weekend in Cesis or Auckland?

Cesis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cesis, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.


Five days in Cesis or Auckland?

Cesis 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.

Auckland is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Auckland. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cesis or Auckland?

Cesis 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 town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the thrill-seeking big city of Auckland. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Auckland or Cesis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in Auckland is €145. 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 Cesis and Auckland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Auckland 84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Auckland 168
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Auckland

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Auckland? 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 Cesis


Hotels in Auckland


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: Auckland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Auckland 15

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Auckland

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Auckland:


  • Bus from Airport
    8.06
  • Airport Shuttle
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auckland

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

  • Auckland Airport Private Transfer: $81
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Airport To Cruise Ship Terminal : $120
  • Airport Transfer: Auckland to Airport AKL by Business Car: $90
  • Airport Transfer: Auckland to Auckland Airport AKL by Luxury Car: $152
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Auckland Airport AKL to Auckland in Business Car: $95
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Auckland Airport AKL to Auckland City by Luxury Car: $115
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Auckland Airport AKL to Auckland City by Luxury Van: $115
  • Arrival Transfer: Auckland Airport to Auckland Central City Centre: $25
  • Auckland Airport (AKL) to Auckland - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Auckland Airport (AKL) to North Shore-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $221
  • Auckland Airport Arrival Transfer (Individuals and Groups): $109
  • Auckland Airport Private Transfers in a Luxury Minibus: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Auckland?

Prices for flights to both Auckland and Cesis 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
    Cesis 71
    Auckland 39
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

Typical Food Prices in Auckland

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


  • Breakfast
    4.03

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Auckland

For Auckland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Harbour Sailing Cruise with 3-Course Dinner: $93
  • Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour: $101
  • Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner: $102
  • Waiheke Island: Private Sunset Wine Tour & 2 Course Dinner: $392
  • Māori Evening Dinner and Private Show Experience: $519
  • From Kiwi Bird Encounter & 3-Course Dinner Tour: $550

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    Auckland 23

Typical Entertainment Prices in Auckland

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Auckland's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Auckland Sky Tour (for 2)
    28
  • Waiheke Island Tour (for 2)
    102

Tours and Activities in Auckland

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

  • Auckland War Memorial Museum Entry Ticket: $9.27
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Auckland's Hidden Stories: $12
  • Maritime Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Maritime Museum Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14
  • Explore Self Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Vibrosaun Therapy Experience: $18
  • Waitematā Harbour Cruise with Live Commentary: $20
  • Gallery Highlights Tour and General Admission: $22
  • Auckland Takapuna: Escape Game Adventure: $23
  • Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern: $25
  • Auckland CBD: Escape Game Adventure: $26
  • Scenic Harbour Cruise in Auckland : $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Auckland 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Auckland

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

  • Waiheke Island: Scenic Island Wine Tour & Local Wine Tasting: $110
  • Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Auckland with 3-Course Vineyard Lunch: $119
  • Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour: $159
  • Kumeu Wine Tour: $165
  • Waiheke Island: Wine Tour & Lunch at Award Winning Venue: $168
  • From Small Group Kumeu Wine Tour with Lunch: $180
  • Small-Group Kumeu Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch: $180
  • Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch: $183
  • City Tour with Wine Tasting and Black Sand Beach: $217
  • Shore Excursion from Auckland - Private Tour & Wine Tasting: $278
  • Waiheke Island Scenic Wine Tour: $301


When comparing the travel costs between Cesis and Auckland, we can see that Auckland 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. Even though Cesis is in Europe and Auckland is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Auckland?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Auckland, 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 Cesis or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Cesis or Auckland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Auckland. Many visitors come to Cesis in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cesis is cooler than Auckland in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

Cesis usually gets more rain in July than Aucklandin January. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Auckland 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Auckland because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cesis is much colder than Auckland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Auckland averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than Aucklandin April. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Auckland 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Auckland in the Winter?

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

The weather in Cesis can be very cold. In January, Cesis is generally much colder than Aucklandin July. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Auckland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Aucklandin July. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Auckland 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Auckland. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Cesis is much colder than Auckland in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in October.

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Aucklandin October. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Auckland 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Auckland and Cesis

Cesis Auckland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 20°C (68°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)