A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Christchurch vs. Aalborg for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Christchurch or Aalborg?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Aalborg? 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.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a cultural, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled city. Christchurch is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Christchurch travel costs.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming, local, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Aalborg travel costs.

Christchurch and Aalborg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Christchurch or Aalborg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Christchurch than Aalborg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Christchurch is very popular for its museums and attractions, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Aalborg attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Christchurch is famous for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. It is also well known for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Christchurch different from Aalborg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Christchurch or Aalborg?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Christchurch. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.


Is the Food Better in Christchurch or Aalborg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Christchurch and Aalborg.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Christchurch. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Aalborg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Christchurch and Aalborg.

Christchurch is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Many people head to Aalborg for the nightlife scene. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Beaches?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for its beaches. However, Aalborg is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Christchurch for it's beautiful beaches. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Aalborg is not a beach destination.


Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for its Old Town?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Aalborg is a popular place for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Aalborg to see the old town. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Hiking?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Aalborg?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Christchurch is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.


Is Christchurch or Aalborg More Beautiful?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Aalborg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Christchurch is a gorgeous place to visit. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.

Aalborg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Families?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Christchurch is very family-friendly. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Couples?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Christchurch frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.


Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Students?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for students. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

It's common for students to visit Aalborg. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Is Christchurch or Aalborg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Christchurch
Aalborg

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Christchurch and Aalborg.

You'll find some public transit in Christchurch, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.


Is Christchurch or Aalborg a more walkable city?

Christchurch
Aalborg

Christchurch is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Christchurch is very walkable. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Christchurch Worth Visiting? and Is Aalborg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aalborg or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Aalborg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Christchurch and Aalborg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Christchurch than in Aalborg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aalborg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Aalborg 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 Christchurch.


  • How many days in Christchurch or Aalborg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Christchurch 2-4 
    Aalborg 2-3

One day in Christchurch or Aalborg?

In Christchurch, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Aalborg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Christchurch or Aalborg?

In Christchurch, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Christchurch has to offer.

Aalborg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Christchurch or Aalborg?

Christchurch 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Aalborg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Christchurch or Aalborg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Christchurch. 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.

Aalborg is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, and The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark.


Which place is cheaper, Aalborg or Christchurch?

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 Christchurch is $117, while the average daily cost in Aalborg is $209. 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 Christchurch and Aalborg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Christchurch $49
    Aalborg $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Christchurch $98
    Aalborg $192
Compare Hotels in Christchurch and Aalborg

Looking for a hotel in Christchurch or Aalborg? 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 Christchurch


Hotels in Aalborg


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: Christchurch Hotel Prices and Aalborg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Christchurch $14
    Aalborg $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $164
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Airport CHC to Christchurch in Luxury Car: $130
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Car: $130
  • Christchurch Airport to City SUV Transfer: $57
  • CHC Airport to Downtown|Hotel Private Transfer: $26
  • Departure Transfer: Christchurch to Airport CHC by Business Car: $95
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Akaroa Cruise Port: $189
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Lyttelton Cruise Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Cruise Port to Christchurch City: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $144
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $144
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $96
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Christchurch or Aalborg?

Prices for flights to both Aalborg and Christchurch 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
    Christchurch $53
    Aalborg $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Christchurch $17
    Aalborg $26

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

Here are a few actual costs in Christchurch for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry Ticket: $20
  • Scenic Chairlift Ride at Christchurch Adventure Park: $20
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram: $23
  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • Christchurch Mystery Puzzle Tour “Shadow of the Prism”: $29
  • International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket: $44
  • Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo: $45
  • Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo: $45
  • Gondola Ticket and Punt Ride on the Avon River: $46
  • Waka Paddling Experience on the Avon River: $57
  • Uniquely Kiwi Landsailing Adventure: $59
  • Tram, Punt and Gondola Ride Combo Ticket: $66

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

Here are a few actual costs in Aalborg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $48
  • Denmark: Tour of Aalborg in Spanish: $118
  • Wonderful Christmas in Aalborg - Private Walking Tour: $1,434

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Christchurch $11
    Aalborg $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Christchurch

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

  • Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch - including Lunch & Tastings: $108
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch: $114
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $116
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour : $135


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

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


Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Aalborg?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Aalborg, 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 Christchurch or Aalborg?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Aalborg in the Summer?

Both Aalborg and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Christchurch is generally around the same temperature as Aalborgin July. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 18°C (64°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In January, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Aalborgin July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Christchurch 18°C (64°F) 
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Aalborg in the Autumn?

Both Aalborg and Christchurch during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year.

Christchurch is a little warmer than Aalborg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Aalborg fluctuates around 9°C (48°F)in October.

Christchurch usually gets less rain in April than Aalborgin October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Aalborg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Aalborg. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Aalborg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Aalborg. In the winter, Christchurch is much warmer than Aalborg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Christchurch in July average around 6°C (43°F), and Aalborg averages at about -1°C (31°F)in January.

In July, Christchurch usually receives more rain than Aalborgin January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Christchurch 6°C (43°F) 
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Aalborg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Aalborg. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Aalborg in the spring for the small town charm.

In October, Christchurch is generally much warmer than Aalborgin April. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Christchurch usually gets more rain in October than Aalborgin April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Aalborg and Christchurch

Christchurch Aalborg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 6°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 6°C (43°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 10°C (49°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 50 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)