A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Adelaide vs. Fiordland National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Adelaide and Fiordland National Park 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.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a welcoming, friendly, and under-rated city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Adelaide and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Milford Track
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Adelaide. Although Adelaide and Fiordland National Park are both popular with visitors, Adelaide has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Adelaide is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Fiordland National Park is more touristy than Adelaide and is known for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments. Adelaide is popular for its wine scene, vibrant festivals, green spaces, and local sporting events. It is also home to the Adelaide Botanic Garden.

How is Adelaide different from Fiordland National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is very good for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Adelaide is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting buildings along North Terrace such as the Parliament House, the State Library of South Australia, and the South Australian Museum. At the Botanic Garden there's the Santos Museum of Economic Botany. Also make sure you check out the Art Gallery of South Australia.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is very good for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Adelaide. There's great wine, local restaurants, and charming cafes. You'll find local dishes as well as international flavors around town. The local produce is good and the restaurants offer fresh and delicious recipes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is very good for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Adelaide. The nightlife scene is filled with rooftop bars, live music venues, and boutique wine bars. Whether you're looking for trendy and luxury or casual and laid back, there are many places to spend a night out.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fiordland National Park. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Beaches?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Adelaide is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Part of what makes the city's beaches so great is how accessible they are. You don't have to go far to be at some of the area's best beaches. Glenelg is a family-friendly beach near town. It's also the most popular and most accessible. Brighton is relaxed with cafes and small restaurants nearby. And for seafood, head to Henley.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Fiordland National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Adelaide offers some nice hiking trails. Outside of town there are national parks and reserves with hiking trails. You don't have to go far to explore the coastline or bushland in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is a very popular place for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Adelaide. Rundle Mall is the most well known shopping area in town. You'll find boutique shops as well as large department stores. Whether you're looking for international fashion brands or something more local, there are many places to explore.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is an extremely popular national park to visit for families. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Adelaide. There are kids museums, water parks, playgrounds, and beaches that are fun to explore with children. The city has a family-friendly vibe with kid-friendly restaurants and a welcoming personality.


Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for romance. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Fiordland National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Adelaide makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A great date activity is a night at the opera. There are also boat rides, hot air balloon rides, and nice restaurants that make for a fun evening out.

Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Fiordland National Park. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

Plenty of backpackers visit Adelaide. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but those who venture here will enjoy a great wine scene, beautiful beaches, and lively festivals.

Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Students?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Fiordland National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Adelaide. It's a friendly and affordable city that has a nice student culture. It's very livable and accessible to other interesting places.

Fiordland National Park is not popular with students.


Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors to Adelaide can move around easily with public transportation. There are bus, trains, and trams throughout the city center.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.

Is Adelaide or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Adelaide
Fiordland National Park

Adelaide is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Adelaide is very walkable. The city is compact and laid out in a grid pattern, so it's easy to explore on foot.

Fiordland National Park is generally not very walkable. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Adelaide Worth Visiting? and Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fiordland National Park or Adelaide?

How long in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

Adelaide and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fiordland National Park than Adelaide because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Adelaide, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adelaide than Fiordland National Park 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 Adelaide.


  • How many days in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Adelaide 2-4 
    Fiordland National Park 3-6

One day in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the elegant city of Adelaide. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful national park of Fiordland National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

Adelaide is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fiordland National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

Adelaide is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Fiordland National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fiordland National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Adelaide. Most people come for the beaches. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Fiordland National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Fiordland National Park or Adelaide?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Adelaide is $115, while the average daily cost in Fiordland National Park is $103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Adelaide and Fiordland National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Adelaide $68
    Fiordland National Park $51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Adelaide $136
    Fiordland National Park $102
Compare Hotels in Adelaide and Fiordland National Park

Looking for a hotel in Adelaide or Fiordland National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Adelaide


Hotels in Fiordland National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Adelaide Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Adelaide $19
    Fiordland National Park $44
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Adelaide

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Adelaide are as follows:


  • Shuttle from the Train Station
    $3.77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Adelaide

Also for Adelaide, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private One way Transfer from Adelaide Airport(ADL) to Adelaide: $39
  • One Day Kangaroo Island Sip & See tour with return ferry transfers from Adelaide: $260
  • Airport Transfer: Airport ADL to Adelaide by Business Car: $60
  • Full-Day Private City Tour with Hotel Transfers: $510
  • Adelaide to Adelaide Airport (ADL) - Departure Private Transfer : $39
  • Adelaide Private Airport and City Transfer: $112
  • Adelaide Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Adelaide city: $259
  • Adelaide Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Adelaide: $33
  • Adelaide Airport Transfers : Adelaide City to Airport ADL in Luxury Car: $109
  • Adelaide Airport (ADL): Private Transfer to Adelaide hotels: $224
  • Adelaide Airport (ADL): Private Transfer to Adelaide Port: $259

Is it cheaper to fly into Adelaide or Fiordland National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fiordland National Park and Adelaide change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Adelaide $32
    Fiordland National Park $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Adelaide

For Adelaide, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • HandleBar Bike Tour with Pub Stops & Dinner Option: $31
  • Local Food Tour and Tastings with Guide: $81
  • Four Hours Cooking Class in Adelaide Hills: $129
  • Small-Group River Murray Dark Sky and Sunset Tour with Dinner: $202
  • Pipi Catching and Cooking Experience in Goolwa : $243

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Adelaide $14
    Fiordland National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Adelaide

For Adelaide, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2h Wine Experience, Vineyard walk, 6 wines, charcuterie board: $62
  • 3-Day Yorkes Peninsula Coastal Wilderness Tour from Adelaide: $1,900
  • 5-Day Flinders Ranges & Outback Eco Tour from Adelaide: $2,240
  • 90 Minute Port River Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise: $61
  • Adelaide Central Market Delicious Lunch Tour: $129
  • Adelaide Central Market Discovery Tour: $68
  • Adelaide Central Market Tour with Lunch: $126
  • Adelaide Central Markets: Food Walking Tour: $47
  • Adelaide City Highlights Tour: $59
  • Adelaide City Highlights Tour: $54
  • Adelaide City to Sea Bike Tour: $95
  • Adelaide Gaol Adults Ghost Tour & Investigation: $29

Tours and Activities in Fiordland National Park

For Fiordland National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Te Anau: River Jet Boat and Bike Ride Tour with Local Guide: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Adelaide $23
    Fiordland National Park $8.61

Sample the Local Flavors in Adelaide

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Adelaide:

  • River Torrens Desserts And Wine Tour: $44
  • McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting Tour: $60
  • McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting and Sightseeing (Half-day Afternoon): $62
  • Highlights, Hahndorf, & McLaren Vale Wine Tastings: $81
  • Adelaide Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting and Sightseeing Tour: $90
  • From Barossa Valley Food and Wine Tour: $103
  • The Barossa Valley Premium Wine Tour with Lunch: $115
  • Barossa Valley Full-Day Wine Tasting & Maggie Beers Farm Join Us: $118
  • Barossa Valley Wine Tours - Small Private Groups : $125
  • McLaren Vale Wine Tour by Bike: $132
  • Barossa and Hahndorf Day Trip from Adelaide Including Wine Tasting and Lunch: $132
  • Adelaide Hills Wine Tour: $132


When comparing the travel costs between Adelaide and Fiordland National Park, we can see that Adelaide is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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