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

Should you visit Christchurch or Lillehammer?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Lillehammer? 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.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. 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 skiing. See Lillehammer travel costs.

Christchurch and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Christchurch. Although Christchurch and Lillehammer are popular destinations, Christchurch has more sights and attractions for tourists. Christchurch is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing 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. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Christchurch different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is well known for winter skiing. However, Christchurch is not a skiing destination.

People head to Lillehammer specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Christchurch is not a skiing destination.

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

Christchurch is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Christchurch can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

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

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.

Lillehammer has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is well known for its beaches. However, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Christchurch and Lillehammer both have very good trails.

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 go to Lillehammer for the hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Lillehammer?

Christchurch is well known for shopping. Also, Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer More Beautiful?

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Christchurch is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lillehammer is very family-friendly. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Christchurch and Lillehammer make for a very good place to visit.

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.

Lillehammer is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Christchurch is well known for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Christchurch is a great city to visit as a student. 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 Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

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

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

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 Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Christchurch or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Christchurch is well known for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Christchurch or Lillehammer. In our opinion, Christchurch has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Christchurch than Lillehammer. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventure-filled city of Christchurch. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lillehammer, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this adventure-filled city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Christchurch. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Lillehammer is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Lillehammer?

The adventure-filled city of Christchurch offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Christchurch. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lillehammer is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Christchurch and Lillehammer, we can see that Christchurch is more expensive. And not only is Lillehammer much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Christchurch is in Pacific and Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer.

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

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Lillehammer?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Lillehammer, 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.