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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kanchanaburi and Christchurch. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a informative, educational, and reflective town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Kanchanaburi and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

You'll generally find more things to do in Christchurch than Kanchanaburi. Christchurch is bigger than Kanchanaburi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Christchurch and is popular for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Also, Christchurch is famous for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kanchanaburi and Christchurch.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kanchanaburi. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

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.

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

Christchurch is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Christchurch has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Christchurch has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Kanchanaburi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is a very popular place for the beache. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Christchurch for it's beautiful 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Christchurch is well-known for its shopping. 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 go to Kanchanaburi to go shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Christchurch is very family-friendly. 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 Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch Better for Students?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

Many students visit Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Kanchanaburi and Christchurch.

Kanchanaburi has some public transit options. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

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.

Is Kanchanaburi or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Christchurch is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

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

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Kanchanaburi or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Christchurch due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kanchanaburi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

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

In Kanchanaburi, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this somber town offers. 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.

In Christchurch, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this outdoorsy city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

Kanchanaburi 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.

Christchurch is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the educational destination of Kanchanaburi. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Christchurch. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

Kanchanaburi 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.

Christchurch is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Christchurch, we can see that Christchurch is more expensive. And not only is Kanchanaburi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kanchanaburi is in Asia and Christchurch is in Pacific, 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 Kanchanaburi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kanchanaburi 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 Christchurch would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Christchurch than you might in Kanchanaburi.

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

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi and Christchurch, 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 Kanchanaburi or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kanchanaburi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch and Kanchanaburi during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Christchurch in the summer. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin January. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in July than Christchurchin January. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Christchurch in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Christchurch. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Also, many visitors come to Christchurch in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kanchanaburi in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in April.

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kanchanaburi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Christchurchin April. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Christchurch. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Christchurchin July. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 25°C (77°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Christchurchin July. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Christchurchin July. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Christchurch in the Spring?

Both Christchurch and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Christchurch in the spring. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Christchurch. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Christchurchin October. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Kanchanaburi