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

Should you visit Adelaide or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Adelaide travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a cultural, natural, and world-renowned town. Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Rotorua travel costs.

Adelaide and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Adelaide or Rotorua?

You'll generally find more things to do in Adelaide than Rotorua. Adelaide is bigger than Rotorua, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Adelaide is better known for its beaches and shopping, while Rotorua is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Rotorua is more touristy than Adelaide and is known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Adelaide is well known for its wine scene, vibrant festivals, green spaces, and local sporting events. Also, Adelaide is famous for the Adelaide Botanic Garden.

How is Adelaide different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rotorua 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 Rotorua?

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

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.

Adelaide offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Is the Food Better in Adelaide or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rotorua is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Rotorua. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Adelaide or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Adelaide and Rotorua.

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.

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 Adelaide or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Adelaide is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Adelaide attract visitors from all over. 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.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Adelaide or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

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 Rotorua?

Adelaide is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

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

Is Adelaide or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Rotorua is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Adelaide is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Adelaide is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Adelaide or Rotorua Better for Families?

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

Rotorua is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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 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 Rotorua Better for Couples?

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

Rotorua is a great town 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.

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 Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Rotorua Better for Students?

Adelaide is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Adelaide is an excellent place 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Adelaide. There are bus, trains, and trams throughout the city center.

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 Adelaide or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Adelaide is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

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 Adelaide Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Adelaide?

How long in Adelaide or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Adelaide and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Adelaide than in Rotorua. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Adelaide, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotorua than Adelaide 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 Rotorua.

One day in Adelaide or Rotorua?

In Adelaide, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Rotorua offers food and shopping. 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 Rotorua?

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

Rotorua is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotorua, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Adelaide or Rotorua?

Adelaide 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.

Rotorua is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Adelaide or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Adelaide. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Adelaide. 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.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. 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 town offers something for everyone.

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

Which is Bigger, Adelaide or Rotorua?

Adelaide has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Adelaide 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 Adelaide or Rotorua?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Adelaide or Rotorua in the Summer?

Both Rotorua and Adelaide are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Adelaide because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In January, Adelaide is generally much warmer than Rotorua. Daily temperatures in Adelaide average around 22°C (72°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In January, Adelaide usually receives less rain than Rotorua. Adelaide gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Adelaide or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua and Adelaide during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Adelaide this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Adelaide is a little warmer than Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Adelaide averages around 18°C (64°F) in April, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Adelaide usually gets more rain in April than Rotorua. Adelaide gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Adelaide or Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Adelaide and Rotorua. Many travelers come to Adelaide for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rotorua in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Adelaide is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Adelaide in July average around 11°C (52°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F).

In July, Adelaide usually receives more rain than Rotorua. Adelaide gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Adelaide or Rotorua in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Adelaide as well as Rotorua. Many visitors come to Adelaide in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Rotorua for the natural beauty during these months.

In October, Adelaide is generally cooler than Rotorua. Daily temperatures in Adelaide average around 16°C (61°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Adelaide usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Rotorua. Adelaide gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Adelaide