A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Christchurch vs. Asuncion for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Christchurch or Asuncion?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Asuncion? 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.

Where Should I go: Christchurch or Asuncion?

Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand, right beside the Canterbury Plains. Most people begin their South Island travels here. The city itself can be fascinating to explore so it is worth allowing yourself several days in town as an introduction to the region.

The River Avon flows through the city center, twisting through the old buildings. Christchurch is referred to in New Zealand as the Garden City and it is easy to see why. It's quite a nice city with trees spread throughout. The economy is centered around international tourism as well as foreign education. There is a high Asian student population here, giving the city a diverse feel.

Christchurch's climate is temperate and the city receives moderate rainfall. In January average high temperatures are around 73 degrees Fahrenheit with averages around 52 degrees Fahrenheit in July. There is a sea breeze during the summer months that keep temperatures pleasant. Temperatures can drop below freezing at night during the winter months. Snow may also fall several times a year.

Asuncion

Asuncion is a vastly underrated city. It is the capital but also the administrative economic and cultural center of Paraguay. It is located in the south central part of the country, near the border with Argentina and it is one of the oldest cities in South America, with people living here since almost 500 years. The city has a beautiful and simple center, with a few unique colonial and beaux arts buildings, international cuisine, shady plazas and friendly people. Its handful of historic buildings around the Plaza de los Heroes, Plaza Uruguaya and Manzana de la Ribera, two or three small museums, old bars and cafes, but also smart suburbs, ritzy shopping malls and fashionable nightclubs will keep you entertained for a day or two. It is a very charming city for travellers and apart from the sights, the city boasts a good tourist infrastructure with hotels and restaurants.

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


Which place is cheaper, Asuncion or Christchurch?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Christchurch is $96, while the average daily cost in Asuncion is $67. 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 Asuncion in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Christchurch $50
    Asuncion $22
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Christchurch $100
    Asuncion $44
Compare Hotels in Christchurch and Asuncion

Looking for a hotel in Christchurch or Asuncion? 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 Asuncion


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 Asuncion Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Christchurch $15
    Asuncion $8.69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Port to Christchurch Airport CHC: $29
  • Departure Private Transfers from Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $91
  • Departure Private Transfers from Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch to Christchurch Airport(CHC)- Departure Transfer: $32
  • Christchurch Hotels to Airport Transfer: $51
  • Christchurch City Hotels to Airport Transfer - Lowest price 1 to 9 Passengers: $78
  • Christchurch Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Christchurch: $69
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $91
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $130
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Airport CHC to Christchurch in Business Car: $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Asuncion

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

  • RoundTrip Private Transfer Asuncion Airport (ASU) - Asuncion City: $52
  • RoundTrip Transfer in Private Minivan Asuncion Airport (ASU) - Asuncion City: $59
  • Transfer in Private Car from Asuncion Airport (ASU) - Asuncion City: $21
  • Transfer in private car from Asuncion City - Asuncion Airport (ASU): $20
  • Transfer in private minivan Asuncion City - Silvio Pettirosi Airport (ASU): $29
  • Transfer in private minivan from Asuncion Airport (ASU) - Asuncion City: $29

Is it cheaper to fly into Christchurch or Asuncion?

Prices for flights to both Asuncion 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 $31
    Asuncion $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Christchurch $18
    Asuncion $16

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

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

  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • 8 Day Southern Secrets Small Group Tour: $961
  • Akaroa Day Tour From Christchurch: $114
  • Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch: $151
  • Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch: $250
  • Arthur's Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour: $237
  • Arthurs Pass Day Tour With TranzAlpine and Jet Boat Ride : $229
  • Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo: $42
  • Christchurch International Antarctic Centre Entry Tickets: $35
  • Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour: $190
  • Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo: $46
  • Christchurch Zipline Tour: $120

Tours and Activities in Asuncion

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

  • Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Asuncion: $34
  • Walking Tour with a Local in Asuncion "The Mother of Cities": $35
  • Asunción Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $35
  • Asuncion Birding Tour: $70
  • Crystal Fall - day tour in a reduced group: $85
  • Golden Triangle Tour: $110
  • Birding and Nature Chaco Tour: $140
  • Paraguay River Nature and Wildlife Boat Tour from Asunción: $160
  • Half-Day Yparacai Lake Tour from Asuncion with Pick Up: $185
  • Day tour “Circuito San Bernardino”: $214
  • Day tour “Circuito Sapucai”: $221
  • Day tour “Pai Pukú”: $230

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Christchurch $11
    Asuncion $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Christchurch

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

  • From Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $102
  • All-Inclusive Waipara Region Wine Tour from Christchurch: $106
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $120
  • Akaroa Craft Distillery HeliGin Experience: $538

Typical Alcohol Prices in Asuncion

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Asuncion are as follows:


  • Beer
    $1.21


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

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


Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Asuncion?

Asuncion has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Asuncion, 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 Asuncion?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Christchurch or Asuncion in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Asuncion. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asuncion. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. In the summer, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Asuncion. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asuncion receives 249 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Asuncion. Christchurch usually gets less rain in January than Asuncion. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Asuncion receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Christchurch 18°C (64°F) 
    Asuncion 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Asuncion in the Autumn?

Both Asuncion and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Christchurch is much colder than Asuncion in the autumn. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Asuncion fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Asuncion during autumn. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Asuncion receives 199 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asuncion. In April, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Asuncion. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Asuncion receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    Asuncion 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Asuncion in the Winter?

Both Asuncion and Christchurch during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Christchurch is much colder than Asuncion. Typically, the winter temperatures in Christchurch in July average around 6°C (43°F), and Asuncion averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In the winter, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Asuncion. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asuncion receives 191 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in July than Asuncion. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Asuncion receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Christchurch 6°C (43°F) 
    Asuncion 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Asuncion in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Asuncion. The spring months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In October, Christchurch is generally much colder than Asuncion. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and Asuncion fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asuncion this time of the year. In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. Christchurch usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Asuncion during spring. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Asuncion receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.

Asuncion receives a lot of rain in the spring. In October, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Asuncion. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Asuncion receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    Asuncion 25°C (77°F)

Typical Weather for Asuncion and Christchurch

Christchurch Asuncion
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 29°C (84°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Feb 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 27°C (81°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Mar 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Jun 6°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 6°C (43°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 10°C (49°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 50 mm (2 in) 26°C (79°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 28°C (82°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)