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

Should you visit Christchurch or Toulouse?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Toulouse? 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a friendly, relaxed, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Christchurch and Toulouse: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Christchurch or Toulouse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toulouse than Christchurch, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Toulouse is more popular for its food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Christchurch is known for its beaches and hiking. Christchurch is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Christchurch different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Christchurch
Toulouse

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Christchurch and Toulouse.

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 Toulouse specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.


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

Christchurch
Toulouse

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

For foodies, Toulouse is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch
Toulouse

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

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 Toulouse for the nightlife scene. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Christchurch or Toulouse Better for Beaches?

Christchurch
Toulouse

Christchurch is great for the beach. However, Toulouse is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Christchurch attract visitors from all over. 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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.


Is Christchurch or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Christchurch
Toulouse

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Christchurch or Toulouse Better for Hiking?

Christchurch
Toulouse

Christchurch is great for hiking. However, Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Christchurch for the hiking trails. 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Toulouse?

Christchurch
Toulouse

Shopping is a popular activity in both Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.


Is Christchurch or Toulouse Better for Families?

Christchurch
Toulouse

Christchurch is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Toulouse is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Christchurch or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Christchurch
Toulouse

With fun activities for couples, both Christchurch and Toulouse make for a excellent 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.

Toulouse is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Christchurch or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch
Toulouse

Christchurch is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.


Is Christchurch or Toulouse Better for Students?

Christchurch
Toulouse

Christchurch is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Toulouse is a good city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

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

Christchurch
Toulouse

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

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 Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Christchurch or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Christchurch
Toulouse

Christchurch and Toulouse both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Toulouse?

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

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Toulouse. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Toulouse 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 Toulouse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Christchurch 2-4 
    Toulouse 2-4

One day in Christchurch or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant 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 Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Christchurch or Toulouse?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Toulouse. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulouse 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 Toulouse is $134. 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 Toulouse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Christchurch $50
    Toulouse $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Christchurch $100
    Toulouse $144
Compare Hotels in Christchurch and Toulouse

Looking for a hotel in Christchurch or Toulouse? 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 Toulouse


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 Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Christchurch $15
    Toulouse $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $130
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $91
  • Christchurch Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Christchurch: $69
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Airport CHC to Christchurch in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch to Christchurch Airport(CHC)- Departure Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Cruise Port to Christchurch City: $30
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch Airport CHC to Lyttelton Port: $30
  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Port to Christchurch Airport CHC: $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

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

  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $41
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $92
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $87
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Christchurch or Toulouse?

Prices for flights to both Toulouse 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
    Toulouse $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulouse

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

  • No Diet Club - Best food tour in Toulouse !: $53
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $77
  • Traditional Toulouse Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Victor Hugo Market Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $105
  • Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Christchurch $18
    Toulouse $16

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

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

  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $26
  • 8 Day Southern Secrets Small Group Tour: $961
  • Akaroa Day Tour From Christchurch: $114
  • Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch: $153
  • Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch: $254
  • Arthur's Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour: $237
  • Arthurs Pass Day Tour With TranzAlpine and Jet Boat Ride : $233
  • Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo: $42
  • Christchurch International Antarctic Centre Entry Tickets: $35
  • Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo: $46
  • Christchurch Zipline Tour: $135
  • Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Half-Day Tour (One-Way): $122

Tours and Activities in Toulouse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Toulouse.

  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.23
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.33
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.40
  • Toulouse Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.00
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.00
  • Toulouse's Timeless Splendor: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $16
  • Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Minibus: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Christchurch $11
    Toulouse $8.04

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: $107
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch: $110
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $120
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour : $135
  • Akaroa Craft Distillery HeliGin Experience: $538

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Toulouse:

  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $534


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


Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse and Christchurch during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Toulouse for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Christchurch is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Christchurch in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F)in July.

In Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Christchurch. In the summer, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Toulousein July. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in January than Toulousein July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Christchurch 18°C (64°F) 
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Toulouse. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Christchurch is generally cooler than Toulousein October. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Christchurch usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulouse during autumn. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Christchurch usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulousein October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Toulouse. The winter months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

Christchurch is around the same temperature as Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 6°C (43°F) in July, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F)in January.

In the winter, Christchurch often gets more sunshine than Toulousein January. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in July than Toulousein January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Christchurch 6°C (43°F) 
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F)

Should I visit Christchurch or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. Christchurch usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during spring. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Toulousein April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F) 
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Christchurch

Christchurch Toulouse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 6°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 6°C (43°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 10°C (49°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)