A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Alice Springs vs. Cairns for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Alice Springs or Cairns?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Alice Springs and Cairns 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.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a friendly, laid back, and outdoorsy town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cairns

Cairns is a adventure-filled, tropical, and idyllic city. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Alice Springs and Cairns: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alice Springs or Cairns?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cairns. Although Alice Springs and Cairns are popular destinations, Cairns has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cairns is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Alice Springs attracts visitors for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cairns is more touristy than Alice Springs and is known for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. It is also well known for the Great Barrier Reef. Alice Springs is famous for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

How is Alice Springs different from Cairns?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alice Springs or Cairns?

Alice Springs is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Alice Springs. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.

Cairns offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time exploring nature and the outdoors, but there are some interesting cultural sights around town as well. Make sure you check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park as well as the Cairns Aquarium.

Is the Food Better in Alice Springs or Cairns? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cairns is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cairns has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

Alice Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

People head to Cairns just to party. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Resorts?

Cairns is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

In Cairns, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are many beautiful resorts that offer access to the beach and have impressive pools. There are family-friendly resorts, romantic resorts, and even some budget-friendly options.

Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cairns is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. It's access to the Great Barrier Reef make this one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. The undersea world is filled with colorful coral, diverse tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and a truly magical setting.

Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Beaches?

Cairns is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Cairns is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Near town you'll find stunningly beautiful beaches that range from hubs of activity to quiet coves. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is the closest beach to the city center and it has a sandy beach and plenty of amenities. For a quieter setting, head north to Holloways Beach or to the family-friendly Yorkeys Knob Beach. Do take note that if the beach doesn't have a stinger net, then it's recommended you wear a stinger suit (to avoid jellyfish stings).

Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Hiking?

Both Alice Springs and Cairns are destinations which offer terrific hiking.

Around Alice Springs visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Cairns is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Near town you'll find wonderful national parks, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountain ranges. There are countless bush walks and hiking trails in the area. Head into the countryside and you'll get lost in nature and breathtaking views.

Is the Shopping Better in Alice Springs or Cairns?

Cairns is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cairns. There's plenty of shopping around town in the form of shopping centers, markets, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking for trendy fashion or a fun souvenir, there are many places to explore.

Alice Springs is a great destination for shopping. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Families?

Cairns is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Cairns is an extremely popular city to visit for families. With the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest nearby, this is a playground for kids and adults alike. There are sandy beaches, rainforest walks, turtle rehabilitation centers, scenic railways, adventure sports, and so much more.

Alice Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Couples?

Both Alice Springs and Cairns are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Alice Springs is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Cairns is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful tropical setting with world class beaches and diverse marine life. Couples who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will love this amazing destination. You can experience the area's wildlife, relax on sandy beaches, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. There is plenty of luxury, but also adventure-filled activities to choose from.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Cairns, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this coastal town for its easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and its many activities and vibrant energy. There are adventure sports, wild nightclubs, and no shortage of places to hang out with other backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Alice Springs. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cairns is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Alice Springs is not known for its public transit.

While Cairns offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Alice Springs or Cairns a more walkable city?

Alice Springs is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Alice Springs is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

Cairns is generally not very walkable. While you can walk around many parts of the city center, most visitors want to head into the rainforest or experience the nearby day trips, which require a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Cairns Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairns or Alice Springs?

How long in Alice Springs or Cairns?

In either Alice Springs or Cairns, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairns than Alice Springs because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alice Springs, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairns.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cairns than Alice Springs 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 Cairns.

One day in Alice Springs or Cairns?

Alice Springs might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Cairns. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Alice Springs or Cairns?

Alice Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairns. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Alice Springs or Cairns?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the idyllic destination of Cairns. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Alice Springs or Cairns?

Alice Springs is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the city of Cairns. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Contiki Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Alice Springs and Cairns, we can see that Alice Springs 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 Alice Springs Expensive? and Is Cairns Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Alice Springs or Cairns?

Cairns has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Alice Springs. When comparing the sizes of Alice Springs and Cairns, 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.