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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Christchurch?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Christchurch can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. The famous beauty of Similan Islands is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Similan Islands travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. Christchurch is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Christchurch travel costs.

Similan Islands and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Christchurch?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Christchurch than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Christchurch is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Christchurch is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Also, Christchurch is famous for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Christchurch?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Christchurch has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Christchurch has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Similan Islands a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is terrific for the beach. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Similan Islands. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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 Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Christchurch. 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.

Similan Islands offers some nice hiking trails. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Christchurch?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Christchurch is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Similan Islands is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Similan Islands is one of the main draws. The remote setting makes this one of the few truly pristine places left to explore. In addition to the white sand and blue water, the undersea world here is spectacular.

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

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Families?

Christchurch is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Couples?

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

Similan Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

Christchurch is a great island chain 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 Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

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

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch Better for Students?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Christchurch is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

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

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Similan Islands or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Similan Islands due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Similan Islands. 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 Similan Islands. 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 Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Christchurch?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this idyllic island chain offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 adventure-filled destination of Christchurch offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Christchurch?

Similan Islands is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

The city of Christchurch offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Christchurch?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this idyllic destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. 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. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Christchurch?

Similan Islands is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Christchurch. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, 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 Similan Islands and Christchurch, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Christchurch much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Similan Islands is in Asia 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 Similan Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Similan Islands experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch and Similan Islands during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Christchurch in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Christchurch in the summer. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin January. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Christchurchin January. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Christchurch in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Christchurch. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Similan Islands is much warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Similan Islands in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in April.

Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Christchurchin April. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Christchurch. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Christchurchin July. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Christchurchin July. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Christchurchin July. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Christchurch in the Spring?

Both Christchurch and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Christchurch in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Christchurch. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Christchurchin October. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Similan Islands