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

Should you visit Christchurch or Salzburg?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Salzburg? 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. Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Christchurch travel costs.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a musical, cultural, and recognizable city. The famous beauty of Salzburg is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums. See Salzburg travel costs.

Christchurch and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Salzburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Salzburg than Christchurch. While Christchurch is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Salzburg is more popular for its music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Christchurch is known for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking. Salzburg is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also home to The Salzburg Old Town. Christchurch is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Christchurch different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

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

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.

Salzburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Christchurch offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is a well-known place for the beach. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is terrific for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Salzburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Salzburg?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg make it a world-class shopping destination. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg More Beautiful?

Salzburg is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Salzburg is one of the main draws. This stunning city is known for its beautiful churches and hillside views.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for Families?

Christchurch is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Salzburg is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for Couples?

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

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch and Salzburg 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 Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Christchurch or Salzburg Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

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 Salzburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg has some very good public transit options. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Salzburg a more walkable city?

Christchurch and Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Salzburg?

In either Christchurch or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

One day in Christchurch or Salzburg?

The city of Christchurch offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this recognizable city 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 Salzburg?

Christchurch is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Christchurch, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Salzburg?

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Salzburg, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this historic 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 Salzburg?

Christchurch is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Salzburg 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Salzburg?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Salzburg. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg 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 Salzburg during summer. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Salzburgin July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Christchurch or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Salzburg. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than Salzburgin October. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Salzburgin October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. Christchurch is much warmer than Salzburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 6°C (43°F) in July, and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F)in January.

Christchurch usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Christchurch usually receives more rain than Salzburgin January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Christchurch or Salzburg in the Spring?

Both Salzburg and Christchurch during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In the spring, Christchurch is a little warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Christchurch in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (51°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Christchurch. In the spring, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than Salzburgin April. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets less rain in October than Salzburgin April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Christchurch