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

Should you visit Christchurch or Austin?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Austin? 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. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Christchurch and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Austin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Austin than Christchurch. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Austin is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Christchurch attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Christchurch is famous for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital.

How is Christchurch different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Christchurch and Austin.

Christchurch offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Austin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Christchurch has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Austin is a must-see party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is terrific for its live music scene. However, Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Christchurch. 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.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Austin?

Christchurch is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin 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 Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Families?

Christchurch is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Couples?

Christchurch is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch and Austin are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Christchurch is a great city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Christchurch or Austin Better for Students?

Christchurch and Austin are very good places to visit for students.

Christchurch is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Austin is very popular with students. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Christchurch or Austin a more walkable city?

Christchurch is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Austin?

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

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Austin. 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 Austin. 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 Austin 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.

One day in Christchurch or Austin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Christchurch. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Austin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this eccentric city 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 Austin?

Christchurch is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Austin 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 Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the unconventional destination of Austin. 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 Austin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Christchurch. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Austin 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Christchurch and Austin, we can see that Austin 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 Austin is in North 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 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 Austin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Austin 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 Austin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Austin, 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 Austin?

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 Austin has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Christchurch or Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Christchurch is generally much colder than Austinin July. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 18°C (64°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Christchurch usually receives around the same amount of rain as Austinin July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Christchurch or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Christchurch during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Christchurch is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C)in October.

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Austinin October. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets less rain in April than Austinin October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Austin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Austin. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Christchurch is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Christchurch in July average around 6°C (43°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C)in January.

Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Austin during winter. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Christchurch usually receives more rain than Austinin January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Christchurch or Austin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Austin. The spring months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In October, Christchurch is generally much colder than Austinin April. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. In the spring, Christchurch often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austinin April. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets less rain in October than Austinin April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Christchurch