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

Should you visit Christchurch or Munich?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Munich? 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 adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Christchurch and Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Munich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Munich than Christchurch, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Munich is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Christchurch is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Munich is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace. Christchurch is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Christchurch different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Munich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

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

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.

Munich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Christchurch or Munich Better for Nightlife?

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

Munich is a must-see party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich Better for Music?

Munich 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 Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Is Christchurch or Munich Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is well known for the beach. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a beach destination.

Is Christchurch or Munich Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Munich?

Munich is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Munich make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Christchurch. 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.

Is Christchurch or Munich Better for Families?

Christchurch is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Munich 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.

Munich is a very family-friendly destination. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Christchurch or Munich Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Christchurch and Munich 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.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Christchurch or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is terrific for backpackers. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Christchurch or Munich Better for Students?

Munich is terrific for students. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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

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

Munich is terrific for its public transit. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Munich can take you anywhere. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

While Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Christchurch or Munich a more walkable city?

Christchurch and Munich both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Munich?

In either Christchurch or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Christchurch because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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

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

One day in Christchurch or Munich?

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.

Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Munich?

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.

Munich 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 Munich?

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.

Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Christchurch or Munich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy 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.

Munich 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Munich?

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

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich 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 Munich in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Christchurch is cooler than Munich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Christchurch in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Munich averages at about 20°C (68°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Munich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Munich during summer. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Munichin July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Christchurch or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich 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. Also, most visitors come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In April, Christchurch is generally a little warmer than Munichin October. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than Munichin October. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in April than Munichin October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Munich in the Winter?

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

The weather in Munich can be very cold. Christchurch is much warmer than Munich in the winter. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 6°C (43°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F)in January.

Christchurch usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Munich in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Christchurch is around the same temperature as Munich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Christchurch in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (53°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. In the spring, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than Munichin April. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Munichin April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Munich and Christchurch