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

Should you visit Christchurch or The Hague?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or The Hague? 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, diverse, and global city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Christchurch and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Christchurch or The Hague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in The Hague than Christchurch. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. The Hague is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Christchurch attracts visitors for its museums, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Christchurch is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. It is also well known for The Peace Palace.

How is Christchurch different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Christchurch
The Hague

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Christchurch specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Christchurch
The Hague

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

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.

The Hague has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch
The Hague

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Christchurch and The Hague.

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.

Many people head to The Hague for the nightlife scene. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Music?

Christchurch
The Hague

The Hague is well known for its live music scene. However, Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in The Hague. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Christchurch is not a live music destination.


Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Beaches?

Christchurch
The Hague

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, The Hague is not a beach destination.

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Hiking?

Christchurch
The Hague

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, The Hague is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

The Hague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or The Hague?

Christchurch
The Hague

Shopping is a popular activity in both The Hague 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 The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.


Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Families?

Christchurch
The Hague

Christchurch is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Christchurch is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Couples?

Christchurch
The Hague

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Christchurch makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch
The Hague

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Christchurch is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.


Is Christchurch or The Hague Better for Students?

Christchurch
The Hague

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

Many students frequent The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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

Christchurch
The Hague

The Hague 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.

The Hague has some very good public transit options. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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 The Hague a more walkable city?

Christchurch
The Hague

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.


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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Christchurch and The Hague. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Christchurch than in The Hague. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 1-3 days is enough time in The Hague.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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.


  • How many days in Christchurch or The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Christchurch 2-4 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Christchurch or The Hague?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Christchurch. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in The Hague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Christchurch or The Hague?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Christchurch. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Christchurch. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the global big city of The Hague. 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 The Hague?

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The Hague 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Christchurch?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Christchurch is $96, while the average daily cost in The Hague is $191. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Christchurch and The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Christchurch $50
    The Hague $112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Christchurch $100
    The Hague $224
Compare Hotels in Christchurch and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Christchurch or The Hague? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Christchurch


Hotels in The Hague


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Christchurch Hotel Prices and The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Christchurch $15
    The Hague $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Port to Christchurch Airport CHC: $29
  • Departure Private Transfers from Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $91
  • Departure Private Transfers from Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch to Christchurch Airport(CHC)- Departure Transfer: $32
  • Christchurch Hotels to Airport Transfer: $51
  • Christchurch City Hotels to Airport Transfer - Lowest price 1 to 9 Passengers: $78
  • Christchurch Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Christchurch: $69
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $91
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $130
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Airport CHC to Christchurch in Business Car: $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $280
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.29
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $258
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Christchurch or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague and Christchurch change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Christchurch $31
    The Hague $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87
  • WALKING DINNER ZOETERMEER | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Christchurch $18
    The Hague $37

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

Here are a few actual costs in Christchurch for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • 8 Day Southern Secrets Small Group Tour: $961
  • Akaroa Day Tour From Christchurch: $114
  • Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch: $151
  • Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch: $250
  • Arthur's Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour: $237
  • Arthurs Pass Day Tour With TranzAlpine and Jet Boat Ride : $229
  • Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo: $42
  • Christchurch International Antarctic Centre Entry Tickets: $35
  • Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Tour: $190
  • Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo: $46
  • Christchurch Zipline Tour: $120

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.00
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $7.29
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.07
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.07
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.61
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Muzee Scheveningen History Museum Entry Ticket: $10
  • Uncover In-App Audio Tour of Dutch Majesty: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Christchurch $11
    The Hague $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Christchurch

Also in Christchurch, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $102
  • All-Inclusive Waipara Region Wine Tour from Christchurch: $106
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $120
  • Akaroa Craft Distillery HeliGin Experience: $538

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


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


Which is Bigger, Christchurch or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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 The Hague has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Christchurch or The Hague in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as The Hague. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Christchurch is generally around the same temperature as The Haguein July. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 18°C (64°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in The Hague. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. In the summer, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than The Haguein July. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets less rain in January than The Haguein July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Christchurch 18°C (64°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or The Hague in the Autumn?

Both The Hague and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to The Hague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Christchurch is a little warmer than The Hague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F)in October.

Christchurch usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during autumn. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Christchurch usually receives less rain than The Haguein October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or The Hague in the Winter?

Both The Hague and Christchurch during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to The Hague for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hague can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Christchurch is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Christchurch in July average around 6°C (43°F), and The Hague averages at about 2°C (36°F)in January.

In the winter, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than The Haguein January. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as The Haguein January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Christchurch 6°C (43°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or The Hague in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and The Hague. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to The Hague because of the activities around the city.

In October, Christchurch is generally much warmer than The Haguein April. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. Christchurch usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during spring. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Christchurch usually receives less rain than The Haguein April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Christchurch

Christchurch The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 6°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 6°C (43°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 10°C (49°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 50 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)