A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Torquay vs. Dunedin for Beaches, Attractions, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Torquay or Dunedin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Torquay or Dunedin, 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.

Torquay

Torquay is a outdoorsy, trendy, and casual surf town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a hilly, cultural, and vibrant city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Torquay and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Torquay or Dunedin?

Both Dunedin and Torquay have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Torquay is more popular for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Dunedin is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Torquay is popular for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. Dunedin is popular for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

How is Torquay different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Torquay or Dunedin?

Dunedin is great for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dunedin can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

Is the Food Better in Torquay or Dunedin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Torquay and Dunedin.

Torquay has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dunedin area. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

Dunedin is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Dunedin for the nightlife scene. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Torquay is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Torquay. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Many people head to Dunedin to enjoy the beach. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Torquay is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Torquay. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Many people include a hike when visiting Dunedin. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Dunedin?

Dunedin is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its shopping areas.

Dunedin is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Families?

Dunedin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dunedin is very family-friendly. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Torquay is well known for couples. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Torquay frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dunedin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Dunedin. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Torquay is a good surf town to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Students?

Dunedin is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Torquay is not popular with students.

Dunedin is a great city to visit as a student. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Torquay is not popular with students.

Is Torquay or Dunedin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Torquay and Dunedin both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Torquay offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Dunedin has a few public transit options. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Is Torquay or Dunedin a more walkable city?

Torquay and Dunedin are very good when it comes to walkability.

Torquay is a very walkable surf town. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

Dunedin is a very walkable destination. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Torquay Worth Visiting? and Is Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Torquay and Dunedin. In our opinion, Dunedin has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dunedin than Torquay. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Torquay, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dunedin than Torquay 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 Dunedin.

One day in Torquay or Dunedin?

In Torquay, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This surf town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Dunedin, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Torquay or Dunedin?

In Torquay, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Torquay has to offer.

In Dunedin, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dunedin has to offer.

Five days in Torquay or Dunedin?

Torquay 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.

Dunedin is a great place to explore. 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 Torquay or Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Torquay. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dunedin. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dunedin. 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 Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Torquay or Dunedin?

Dunedin has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Torquay and Dunedin, 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.