A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wellington vs. Naples for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Wellington or Naples?

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

Should I visit Wellington or Naples? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Wellington

Wellington is a laid-back, funky, and compact city. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Naples

Naples is a gritty, colorful, and fascinating city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Wellington and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wellington or Naples?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Naples than Wellington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Naples is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Wellington is known for its beaches and hiking. Wellington is more touristy than Naples and is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. Naples is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. It is also home to Piazza del Plebiscito.

How is Wellington different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wellington or Naples?

Naples is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Naples offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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.

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

Naples is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Naples is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Wellington and Naples.

Wellington has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Wellington or Naples Better for Beaches?

Wellington is well known for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Wellington or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Naples is a very popular place for its old town. However, Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Is Wellington or Naples Better for Hiking?

Wellington is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wellington or Naples?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Wellington and Naples.

Wellington is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Wellington or Naples Better for Families?

Wellington is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Wellington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Wellington or Naples Better for Couples?

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

Naples makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Wellington is a good city 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 Wellington or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wellington and Naples are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many 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.

Naples is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Wellington or Naples Better for Students?

Both Wellington and Naples are good destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Naples is popular with students. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Wellington and Naples.

Wellington has some very good public transit options. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

The public transit in Naples can get you to most places easily. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Wellington or Naples a more walkable city?

Wellington and Naples are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Naples is a very walkable destination. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Wellington Worth Visiting? and Is Naples Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Naples or Wellington?

How long in Wellington or Naples?

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

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

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

One day in Wellington or Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wellington. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

When visiting Naples, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Naples, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Wellington or Naples?

Wellington 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.

When visiting Naples, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Wellington or Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wellington. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Naples, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wellington or Naples?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the compact destination of Wellington. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Naples is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wellington and Naples, we can see that Naples is more expensive. And not only is Wellington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Wellington is in Pacific and Naples is in Europe, 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 Naples would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naples 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 Wellington Expensive? and Is Naples Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Wellington or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Wellington. When comparing the sizes of Wellington and Naples, 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 Wellington or Naples?

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 Naples has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Wellington or Naples in the Summer?

Both Naples and Wellington during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Wellington for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Naples in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Wellington is cooler than Naples. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wellington in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Naples averages at about 23°C (74°F)in July.

In Naples, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wellington. In the summer, Wellington often gets less sunshine than Naplesin July. Wellington gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun.

Wellington usually gets more rain in January than Naplesin July. Wellington gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wellington or Naples in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wellington and Naples. Many visitors come to Wellington in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Naples for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In April, Wellington is generally cooler than Naplesin October. Daily temperatures in Wellington average around 15°C (58°F), and Naples fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Wellington usually receives less sunshine than Naples during autumn. Wellington gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Naples receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In April, Wellington usually receives less rain than Naplesin October. Wellington gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wellington or Naples in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wellington as well as Naples. Most visitors come to Wellington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Naples because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Wellington is a little warmer than Naples in the winter. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 10°C (49°F) in July, and Naples fluctuates around 8°C (47°F)in January.

In the winter, Wellington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Naplesin January. Wellington gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Naples. Wellington receives a lot of rain in the winter. Wellington usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Naplesin January. Wellington gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wellington or Naples in the Spring?

Both Naples and Wellington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Wellington because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Naples this time of year.

In the spring, Wellington is around the same temperature as Naples. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wellington in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Naples averages at about 13°C (55°F)in April.

Wellington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Naples during spring. Wellington gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Wellington usually receives more rain than Naplesin April. Wellington gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Naples and Wellington