A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Vienna or Rotorua?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Rotorua, 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.

Vienna

Vienna is a ritzy, classical, and traditional city. Vienna is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food. See Vienna travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a cultural, natural, and world-renowned town. The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Rotorua travel costs.

Vienna and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Rotorua?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vienna than Rotorua, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Vienna is more popular for its music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Rotorua is known for its hiking. Vienna is more touristy than Rotorua and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. It is also home to The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Rotorua is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Vienna and Rotorua.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Vienna can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 the Food Better in Vienna or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Rotorua can be an enjoyable experience.

Vienna has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Dining out in Rotorua is an experience not to be missed. 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 Vienna or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Vienna and Rotorua.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Vienna. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

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 Vienna or Rotorua Better for Music?

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

Vienna has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Rotorua is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Rotorua Better for its Old Town?

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Vienna offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Is Vienna or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Vienna is not a hiking destination.

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

Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Rotorua?

Vienna 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 Vienna specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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

Is Vienna or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Vienna 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.

Vienna is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city has beautiful Baroque architecture and a livable atmosphere.

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 Vienna or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Vienna or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Vienna and Rotorua are both first-rate to visit as a couple.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Rotorua is a great city for couples, as it 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 Vienna or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rotorua is extremely popular for backpackers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Vienna or Rotorua Better for Students?

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

Vienna is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Vienna 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 Vienna is top-notch. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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 Vienna or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vienna and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vienna than in Rotorua. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

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

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

One day in Vienna or Rotorua?

In Vienna, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Rotorua. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Vienna or Rotorua?

In Vienna, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Vienna or Rotorua?

Vienna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotorua. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Vienna or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vienna. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Vienna. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the world-renowned destination of Rotorua. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Austria, 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 Vienna and Rotorua, we can see that Vienna is more expensive. And not only is Rotorua much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Vienna 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 Vienna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vienna 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 Vienna Expensive? and Is Rotorua Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Rotorua?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Vienna 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 Vienna 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 Vienna has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Vienna or Rotorua in the Summer?

Both Rotorua and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vienna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vienna is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vienna in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F)in January.

In July, Vienna usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vienna or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua and Vienna during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vienna for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rotorua in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Vienna is generally cooler than Rotoruain April. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 12°C (54°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Vienna usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Rotorua. Many visitors come to Vienna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rotorua for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vienna can get quite cold in the winter. Vienna is much colder than Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in July.

In January, Vienna usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vienna or Rotorua in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Rotorua. Most visitors come to Vienna for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vienna is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vienna in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

Vienna usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Vienna