A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Dunedin vs. Milford Sound for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Dunedin or Milford Sound?

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

Should I visit Dunedin or Milford Sound? 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.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a vibrant, small, and hilly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a remote, iconic, and breathtaking fiord. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include skiing and hiking.

Dunedin and Milford Sound: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dunedin. Although Dunedin and Milford Sound are popular destinations, Dunedin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dunedin is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Milford Sound attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dunedin is famous for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula. It is also well known for . Milford Sound is famous for its iconic hiking trails, stunning boat tours, and dramatic mountains.

How is Dunedin different from Milford Sound?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Milford Sound and Dunedin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Skiing?

Milford Sound is well known for winter skiing. However, Dunedin is not a skiing destination.

Milford Sound is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. Many locals head to the snow-capped peaks to enjoy skiing, but if you're unfamiliar with the area, a ski tour is your best option.

Dunedin is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

Dunedin is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dunedin. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

Milford Sound does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Dunedin or Milford Sound? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dunedin is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Dunedin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

While Milford Sound is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. You'll find a restaurant or two in the small town of Milford Sound. Your best option is the Milford Sound Lodge. In the park you'll want to come prepared with your own food. Many organized tours include a picnic lunch.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Nightlife?

Dunedin is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Milford Sound is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Dunedin has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

Milford Sound is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Beaches?

Dunedin is a good destination for the beach. However, Milford Sound is not a beach destination.

Dunedin offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Milford Sound is not a beach destination.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Hiking?

Milford Sound is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Milford Sound specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The Milford Track has long been considered one of the world's best hikes. It's also, arguably, the most famous hike in New Zealand. The 53 kilometer trek takes you from Lake Te Anau through stunning scenery, alpine settings, and across spectacular suspension bridges.

Many people include a hike when visiting Dunedin. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

Dunedin is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dunedin. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Milford Sound is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Dunedin or Milford Sound.

Dunedin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Milford Sound is a very family-friendly destination. The outdoor wonders will impress the kids as much as the adults. There are shorter walks that are family-friendly and the boat rides are also fun for the whole family. You can take a scenic flight or visit the stunning Mirror Lakes. This really is a playground for both kids and adults.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Couples?

Milford Sound is well known for couples. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Milford Sound frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This is one of the most stunning natural areas in the world, and the romance comes from the spectacular beauty, world class hikes, and breathtaking surroundings that will leave you awed and inspired.

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dunedin is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milford Sound is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Dunedin. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Milford Sound. The area's remoteness and high price tag make it a bit challenging for backpackers and budget travelers. If you have plenty of time and enough money, it is truly a not to be missed destination.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Students?

Dunedin is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Milford Sound is not popular with students.

Many students visit Dunedin. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Milford Sound is not popular with students.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dunedin is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its public transit.

Dunedin has some public transit options. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Public transit is generally limited in Milford Sound. There are buses in the area, but private vehicles or organized tours are your best option for getting around.

Is Dunedin or Milford Sound a more walkable city?

Dunedin is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Milford Sound is lacking in options for its walkability.

Dunedin is a very walkable destination. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

Milford Sound is not a walkable city. This is one of the most remote places in New Zealand so you really must have a car or organized transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Dunedin Worth Visiting? and Is Milford Sound Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milford Sound or Dunedin?

How long in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

Dunedin and Milford Sound both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Milford Sound than Dunedin because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Dunedin, and 2-6 days is enough time in Milford Sound.

Families should spend more time in Dunedin than Milford Sound. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dunedin, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dunedin than Milford Sound 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 Dunedin.

One day in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the small destination of Dunedin. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Milford Sound, you'll find skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This fiord offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dunedin. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Milford Sound, you'll find skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milford Sound has to offer.

Five days in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Dunedin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Milford Sound is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milford Sound has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Dunedin or Milford Sound?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Dunedin. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milford Sound. Many people enjoy the skiing when visiting Milford Sound. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand, The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Dunedin and Milford Sound, we can see that Milford Sound is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Dunedin Expensive? and Is Milford Sound Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dunedin or Milford Sound?

Dunedin has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Milford Sound. When comparing the sizes of Dunedin and Milford Sound, 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.