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

Should you visit Christchurch or Nice?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Nice? 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 outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nice

Nice is a beautiful, opulent, and trendy seaside destination. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Christchurch and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Nice?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nice than Christchurch, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nice is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Christchurch is more popular for its museums and hiking. Nice is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Also, Nice is famous for The Promenade des Anglais. Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Christchurch different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Christchurch is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

For foodies, Nice is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice Better for Nightlife?

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

Nice is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is terrific for its resorts. However, Christchurch is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Nice is a great choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Christchurch is not a resort destination.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nice has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Christchurch and Nice are excellent choices.

Christchurch is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice is well known for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Nice is not a hiking destination.

Christchurch is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Nice?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nice and Christchurch.

Christchurch is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for Families?

Christchurch is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Nice is a family-friendly city. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for Couples?

Nice is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Nice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

Christchurch is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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 backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Christchurch or Nice Better for Students?

Christchurch is a well-known place for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

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

Nice has some very good public transit options. There are both buses and trams.

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 Nice a more walkable city?

Nice is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Nice on foot is easy. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Nice or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Nice?

In either Christchurch or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than Christchurch because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Nice 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 Nice?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Christchurch. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Nice, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this trendy seaside destination offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Nice?

Christchurch is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Nice is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Christchurch or Nice?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Christchurch. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Nice, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this glamourous destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Nice?

The adventure-filled city of Christchurch offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Nice is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Nice?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Nice, 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 Nice?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Nice in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Nice. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Christchurch is cooler than Nice in the summer. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Nice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in July.

In January, Christchurch usually receives more rain than Nicein July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Christchurch or Nice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Nice. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Christchurch is cooler than Nice. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Christchurch in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Nice averages at about 17°C (63°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Nice. Christchurch usually gets less rain in April than Nicein October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Nice in the Winter?

Both Nice and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Nice this time of year.

In July, Christchurch is generally cooler than Nicein January. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 6°C (43°F), and Nice fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In July, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Nicein January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Christchurch or Nice in the Spring?

Both Nice and Christchurch during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Christchurch is around the same temperature as Nice in the spring. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Nice fluctuates around 13°C (56°F)in April.

Christchurch usually gets less rain in October than Nicein April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nice and Christchurch