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

Should you visit Mykonos 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 Mykonos 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mykonos and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Christchurch?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mykonos than Christchurch. Mykonos is bigger than Christchurch, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mykonos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Christchurch is more popular for its museums and hiking. Mykonos is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Mykonos different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mykonos
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.


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

Mykonos
Christchurch

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

For foodies, Mykonos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

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 Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Mykonos is a must-see party destination. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos is terrific for its resorts. However, Christchurch is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Mykonos is a great choice. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Christchurch is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos and Christchurch both offer superb beaches.

Many people visit Mykonos for it's beautiful beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Christchurch is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos is terrific for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Mykonos has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.


Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its hiking trails.

Christchurch is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Christchurch?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Christchurch. 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.

Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Families?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Christchurch is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.


Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Mykonos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Christchurch is a great Greek island if you're traveling as 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.

Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Christchurch is a great city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Christchurch Better for Students?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos 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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.


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

Mykonos
Christchurch

Both Mykonos and Christchurch offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Christchurch has some public transit options. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Mykonos or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Christchurch

Mykonos is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Mykonos on foot is easy. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Mykonos or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mykonos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Mykonos 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 Mykonos or Christchurch? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Christchurch 2-4

One day in Mykonos or Christchurch?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this ritzy Greek island 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.

In Christchurch, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Mykonos or Christchurch?

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Christchurch, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Christchurch has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Christchurch?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this ritzy destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Christchurch is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Christchurch?

Mykonos 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Christchurch. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.


Which place is cheaper, Christchurch or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €237, while the average daily cost in Christchurch is €90. 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 Mykonos and Christchurch in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Christchurch 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Christchurch 92
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Christchurch

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Christchurch? 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 Mykonos


Hotels in Christchurch


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: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Christchurch Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Christchurch 14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • 24 Hour Private Transfer Service All Around Mykonos Island: $27
  • 24-hour Point-Point Mykonos Airport and Port Transfers Service: $20
  • Arrival-Departure Private Transfer in Mykonos+Point to Point Transfer services.: $66
  • Boat Tour / Transfer in Mykonos: $1,076
  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $31
  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,583
  • Mykonos Airport (JMK) to Mykonos - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Mykonos Airport or Port from/to Point to Point Private Transfers: $213
  • Mykonos Airport: Private Mykonos, Elia, or Kalafati Transfer: $82
  • Mykonos Alternative Sunset Sail Aperitivo for Adults-only (free transfers): $71
  • Mykonos Island VIP Transfers: 24/7 Private Transportation: $33
  • Mykonos Private Limo Transfer: $98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Port to Christchurch Airport CHC: $29
  • Christchurch to Christchurch Airport(CHC)- Departure Transfer: $32
  • Christchurch Hotels to Airport Transfer: $51
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Airport CHC to Christchurch in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $66
  • Departure Private Transfers from Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $66
  • Christchurch Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Christchurch: $69
  • Christchurch City Hotels to Airport Transfer - Lowest price 1 to 9 Passengers: $78
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $91
  • Departure Private Transfers from Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $91
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Christchurch?

Prices for flights to both Christchurch and Mykonos 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
    Mykonos 48
    Christchurch 29
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $70
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $101
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $109
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $161
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $164
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $197
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $282
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $613

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Christchurch 16

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Mykonos are as follows:

  • Find your (queer) god Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.72
  • Old Town Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Mykonos Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Paddle Boat Experience: $16
  • Cellar Tour & Beer Tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company : $30
  • Sunset Party Boat Cruise with 1 Drink: $32
  • Highlights Walking Tour with a Local: $38
  • Walking Tour as a Local: $38
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $38
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $42
  • Mykonos Old Town Walking Tour: $43
  • Super Paradise Beach: Wakeboarding Experience: $48

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

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

  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram: $21
  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • Christchurch International Antarctic Centre Entry Tickets: $35
  • International Antarctic Center General Admission Ticket: $36
  • Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo: $42
  • Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo: $46
  • Gondola Ticket and Punt Ride on the Avon River: $47
  • Tram, Punt and Gondola Ride Combo Ticket: $63
  • Waipara Wine Trail Afternoon Tour from Christchurch: $75
  • Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch: $108
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch Sightseeing with Antarctic Center: $109
  • Akaroa Day Tour From Christchurch: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Christchurch 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

Also in Mykonos, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $73
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $74
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $81
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $82
  • Mykonos Town: Wine tour in Greek Gastronony with a local: $103
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $129
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $129

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: $106
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $120
  • Akaroa Craft Distillery HeliGin Experience: $538


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Christchurch, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Christchurch much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Mykonos is in Europe 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 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 Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos 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 Mykonos Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Christchurch?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos 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.