A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Christchurch for Families, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Saaremaa or Christchurch?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Christchurch, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a traditional, quiet, and calm island. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of Saaremaa is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and beaches. See Saaremaa travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Christchurch travel costs.

Saaremaa and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Christchurch?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Christchurch. Although Saaremaa and Christchurch are both popular with visitors, Christchurch has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Christchurch is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Saaremaa is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Christchurch is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. It is also home to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Christchurch is great for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Christchurch can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Christchurch can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Christchurch makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Saaremaa or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is great for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is great for the beach. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Christchurch. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Is Saaremaa or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is great for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Christchurch for the hiking trails. 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.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Christchurch?

Christchurch is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Saaremaa is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Saaremaa is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The island has a classic beauty that feels frozen in time.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.

Is Saaremaa or Christchurch Better for Families?

Christchurch is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Saaremaa and Christchurch are both very good to visit as a couple.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Saaremaa or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

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

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Christchurch Better for Students?

Christchurch is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

Christchurch is a great city to visit as a student. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

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

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Christchurch is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Saaremaa or Christchurch. In our opinion, Christchurch has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Christchurch than Saaremaa. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Saaremaa. 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 Saaremaa. 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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Christchurch?

Saaremaa is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. 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.

The city of Christchurch offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Christchurch?

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

Five days in Saaremaa or Christchurch?

Saaremaa is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Christchurch?

Saaremaa 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, 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 Saaremaa and Christchurch, we can see that Saaremaa is more expensive. And not only is Christchurch much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Saaremaa or Christchurch in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Christchurch. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Saaremaa is generally around the same temperature as Christchurchin January. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saaremaa this time of the year. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Christchurchin January. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets more rain in July than Christchurchin January. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Christchurch in the Autumn?

Both Christchurch and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Saaremaa is cooler than Christchurch in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in April.

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Christchurch during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Christchurchin April. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Christchurch in the Winter?

Both Christchurch and Saaremaa during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

The weather in Saaremaa can be very cold. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Christchurch. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Christchurch averages at about 6°C (43°F)in July.

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin July. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Christchurchin July. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Christchurch in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Christchurch. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Saaremaa in the spring. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Christchurchin October. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. Saaremaa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Christchurch during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Christchurchin October. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Saaremaa