A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Melbourne vs. Paihia for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Melbourne or Paihia?

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

Should I visit Melbourne or Paihia? 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 food, beaches, and shopping. See Melbourne travel costs.

Paihia

Paihia is a relaxing, fun-filled, and beautiful coastal town. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Paihia travel costs.

Melbourne and Paihia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Paihia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Melbourne than Paihia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Melbourne is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Paihia is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Paihia is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. Melbourne is well known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. Also, Melbourne is famous for the Royal Botanic Gardens.

How is Melbourne different from Paihia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Melbourne is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Melbourne. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Paihia. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

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

Both Melbourne and Paihia offer superb 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 Paihia is an experience not to be missed. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Is Melbourne or Paihia Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Paihia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

Is Melbourne or Paihia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paihia is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Paihia. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Melbourne or Paihia Better for Beaches?

Paihia is very popular for the beach. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paihia. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

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

Is Melbourne or Paihia Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Paihia. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Paihia?

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

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.

Many visitors go to Paihia to go shopping. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

Is Melbourne or Paihia Better for Families?

Paihia is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paihia is a very family-friendly destination. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

Melbourne is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Melbourne or Paihia Better for Couples?

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

Paihia makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

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 Paihia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paihia 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 Paihia. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

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 Paihia Better for Students?

Melbourne is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Paihia is not popular with students.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for students. 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.

Paihia is not popular with students.

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

Melbourne is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Melbourne has some very good public transit options. 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 Paihia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Is Melbourne or Paihia a more walkable city?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Paihia is a somewhat walkable city. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paihia or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Paihia?

In either Melbourne or Paihia, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 3-5 days is enough time in Paihia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paihia 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 Paihia.

One day in Melbourne or Paihia?

Melbourne is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal town of Paihia. 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 Paihia?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the fun-filled destination of Paihia. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Melbourne or Paihia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Melbourne. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the fun-filled coastal town of Paihia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

A week in Melbourne or Paihia?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the progressive big city of Melbourne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Paihia 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 Scuba Diving Tours in Australia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Melbourne and Paihia, we can see that Melbourne is more expensive. And not only is Paihia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Paihia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Paihia 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 Paihia.

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

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Paihia?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 1920 times larger than the population of Paihia. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne and Paihia, 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.