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

Should you visit Saaremaa or Wellington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Wellington, 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. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Saaremaa is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and beaches. See Saaremaa travel costs.

Wellington

Wellington is a laid-back, funky, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Wellington travel costs.

Saaremaa and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Wellington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wellington. Although Saaremaa and Wellington are both popular with visitors, Wellington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wellington 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. Wellington is more touristy than Saaremaa and is known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also home to Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wellington is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Wellington 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, Wellington makes for a great culinary experience. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Is Saaremaa or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Wellington for the nightlife scene. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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 Wellington Better for Beaches?

Wellington 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 Wellington. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

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 Wellington Better for Hiking?

Wellington is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Wellington has hiking trails worth exploring. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Wellington?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Wellington More Beautiful?

Saaremaa is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Wellington is not a destination known for its 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.

Wellington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saaremaa or Wellington Better for Families?

Wellington is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Wellington. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

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 Wellington Better for Couples?

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

Saaremaa makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Wellington is a good island for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Is Saaremaa or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wellington 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 Wellington. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

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 Wellington Better for Students?

Wellington is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

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

Wellington is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Wellington can get you to most places easily. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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 Wellington a more walkable city?

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

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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 Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Wellington?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saaremaa and Wellington. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saaremaa than in Wellington. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 2-3 days is enough time in Wellington.

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

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

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

One day in Saaremaa or Wellington?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Wellington offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Wellington?

Even though Saaremaa is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

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

Five days in Saaremaa or Wellington?

Saaremaa, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wellington 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 Wellington?

Saaremaa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Wellington 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, 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 Saaremaa and Wellington, we can see that Saaremaa is more expensive. And not only is Wellington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Saaremaa is in Europe and Wellington 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 Wellington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wellington 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 Wellington.

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Wellington?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Wellington, 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 Wellington?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington 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 Wellington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Wellington. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wellington this time of the year. In Saaremaa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Wellington during summer. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin January. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Wellington. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Wellington because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Saaremaa is much colder than Wellington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F)in April.

In the autumn, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Wellingtonin April. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 163 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in October than Wellingtonin April. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Wellington in the Winter?

Both Wellington and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Wellington this time of year.

The weather in Saaremaa can be very cold. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Wellington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Wellington averages at about 10°C (49°F)in July.

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Wellington during winter. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. In January, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin July. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Wellington in the Spring?

Both Wellington and Saaremaa during the spring are popular places to visit. 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 Wellington for the beaches.

It's quite cold in Saaremaa in the spring. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Wellingtonin October. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Wellingtonin October. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 180 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in April than Wellingtonin October. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wellington and Saaremaa