A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Melbourne vs. Auckland for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Melbourne or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Melbourne or Auckland? 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.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Melbourne travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Auckland travel costs.

Melbourne and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Auckland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Auckland than Melbourne. While Melbourne is larger than Auckland, Auckland has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Auckland is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower. Melbourne is well known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population.

How is Melbourne different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Melbourne or Auckland?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Melbourne and Auckland.

Melbourne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Is the Food Better in Melbourne or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Melbourne and Auckland offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Melbourne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Melbourne and Auckland.

Melbourne has a large number of nightlife venues. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

Auckland is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Melbourne and Auckland are great choices.

Melbourne is considered a top beach destination. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Auckland is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Auckland is a good destination for hiking. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Auckland?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Melbourne and Auckland.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Melbourne or Auckland.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Melbourne is very family-friendly. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Couples?

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

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Students?

Melbourne is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Is Melbourne or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Melbourne can get you around easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Melbourne or Auckland a more walkable city?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Melbourne is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Melbourne Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Melbourne and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Melbourne than in Auckland. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Melbourne 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 Auckland.

One day in Melbourne or Auckland?

Melbourne is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Auckland. 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.

A weekend in Melbourne or Auckland?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the thrill-seeking big city of Auckland. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Five days in Melbourne or Auckland?

Melbourne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Melbourne, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the thrill-seeking city of Auckland. 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.

A week in Melbourne or Auckland?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Auckland 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Auckland?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne and Auckland, 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 Melbourne or Auckland?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Melbourne or Auckland in the Summer?

Both Auckland and Melbourne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Melbourne is around the same temperature as Auckland in the summer. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Auckland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. Melbourne usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during summer. Melbourne gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Auckland. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Melbourne or Auckland in the Autumn?

Both Auckland and Melbourne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Melbourne for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Auckland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Melbourne is around the same temperature as Auckland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Melbourne in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Auckland averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Melbourne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Auckland. Melbourne gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in April than Auckland. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or Auckland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Melbourne and Auckland. Many visitors come to Melbourne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In July, Melbourne is generally cooler than Auckland. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 9°C (49°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Melbourne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auckland during winter. Melbourne gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

Auckland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In July, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Auckland. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Melbourne or Auckland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Melbourne as well as Auckland. Most visitors come to Melbourne for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Melbourne is around the same temperature as Auckland in the spring. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Melbourne this time of the year. In the spring, Melbourne often gets more sunshine than Auckland. Melbourne gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in October than Auckland. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Melbourne