A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paris vs. Rotorua for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Paris or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Paris or Rotorua? 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.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Paris is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Paris travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rotorua travel costs.

Paris and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Rotorua?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Rotorua. Paris is bigger than Rotorua, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Rotorua is more popular for its hiking. Paris is more touristy than Rotorua and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Rotorua is well known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paris or Rotorua?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Rotorua. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Theater?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Rotorua is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Rotorua is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Paris or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Paris have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotorua makes for a great culinary experience. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Paris has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Music?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Rotorua is not a live music destination.

Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Rotorua is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is great for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Rotorua for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Rotorua?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Paris specifically to go shopping. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Paris or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Paris is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Paris or Rotorua.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Rotorua is one of the most popular family destinations. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Paris and Rotorua make for a terrific place to visit.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

For those traveling as a couple, Rotorua has plenty to offer. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Paris and Rotorua are terrific places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Students?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua is not popular with students.

Paris is a very popular city for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

Is Paris or Rotorua Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Paris is top-notch. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Paris or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Paris is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Paris is a very walkable destination. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

For even more information, also check out Is Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Paris?

How long in Paris or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paris and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Rotorua. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Rotorua 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 Paris.

One day in Paris or Rotorua?

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Rotorua, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Rotorua?

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotorua. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Rotorua?

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Rotorua is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rotorua. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find food and shopping around the natural destination of Rotorua. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Paris or Rotorua?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Rotorua, 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 Paris or Rotorua?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rotorua is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Paris has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Paris or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Rotorua. Many visitors come to Paris in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Paris is generally much warmer than Rotoruain January. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 20°C (68°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In July, Paris usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paris or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paris as well as Rotorua. Most visitors come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Paris is cooler than Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

Paris usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Paris because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

The weather in Paris can be very cold. In the winter, Paris is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paris in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

In January, Paris usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paris or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Paris during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rotorua for the natural beauty.

In April, Paris is generally much colder than Rotoruain October. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 11°C (52°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Paris usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Paris