A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alice Springs vs. Cromwell for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Alice Springs or Cromwell?

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 Cromwell 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 outdoorsy, charming, and friendly town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cromwell

Cromwell is a outdoorsy, historical, and cultural town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Alice Springs and Cromwell: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Alice Springs or Cromwell?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cromwell. Although Alice Springs and Cromwell are both popular with visitors, Cromwell has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cromwell is more popular for its skiing, while Alice Springs is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alice Springs is more touristy than Cromwell and is known for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. Cromwell is popular for its fruit farms, orchards, and vineyards. It is also home to the big fruit.

How is Alice Springs different from Cromwell?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Alice Springs or Cromwell Better for Skiing?

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Cromwell is a town with good options for skiing. However, Alice Springs is not a skiing destination.

Head to Cromwell for some great skiing and other winter activities. The town isn't far from several ski fields, so it attracts winter sports enthusiasts when the weather gets cold.

Alice Springs is not a skiing destination.


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

Alice Springs
Cromwell

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Cromwell and Alice Springs.

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.

Cromwell is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting historical activities around town like Goldfields Mining Centre.

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

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Foodies will find both Alice Springs and Cromwell both to be good destinations.

Alice Springs is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Cromwell offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are charming cafes and bakeries where you can grab a light meal or snack. There are also quaint restaurants and wineries with nice meals available.

Is Alice Springs or Cromwell Better for Nightlife?

Alice Springs
Cromwell

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Alice Springs and Cromwell.

If you're looking for night time activities Alice Springs has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cromwell. There are a few breweries and a number of wineries around town where you can have a relaxing night out.


Is Alice Springs or Cromwell Better for Hiking?

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Alice Springs is very popular for hiking. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Cromwell is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful walks in the area that take you through diverse landscapes and to impressive views.

Is the Shopping Better in Alice Springs or Cromwell?

Alice Springs
Cromwell

If you're looking to go shopping, Alice Springs and Cromwell both offer plenty of good spots.

Alice Springs has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Cromwell is a great destination for shopping. There's a farmers market in town as well as several local vendors and cute shops.

Is Alice Springs or Cromwell Better for Families?

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Both Alice Springs and Cromwell are great to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Alice Springs. 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.

Cromwell is a very family-friendly place to visit. The lakefront setting means that there are water activities during the warmer months. There are also ski fields nearby for the winter months. Biking and walking are also popular in the area.


Is Alice Springs or Cromwell Better for Couples?

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Both Alice Springs and Cromwell are great 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.

Cromwell is a very popular place to visit for couples. Cycling, walking, kayaking, and skiing all make this a romantic a charming town to visit as a couple. There are also wineries in the area with beautiful vineyards.

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

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Alice Springs is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cromwell. There are a handful of great hostels in the area and plenty of things to keep backpackers entertained.

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

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Alice Springs and Cromwell both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Cromwell. Public transit around town is limited to a couple of buses.


Is Alice Springs or Cromwell a more walkable city?

Alice Springs
Cromwell

Alice Springs and Cromwell are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Cromwell is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cromwell or Alice Springs?

How long in Alice Springs or Cromwell?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Alice Springs or Cromwell to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Alice Springs than Cromwell because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alice Springs, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cromwell.

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

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


  • How many days in Alice Springs or Cromwell? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alice Springs 2-4 
    Cromwell 1-2

One day in Alice Springs or Cromwell?

Alice Springs is a small town where visitors enjoy the 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the cultural destination of Cromwell. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Alice Springs or Cromwell?

Alice Springs 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 Alice Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cromwell. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Alice Springs or Cromwell?

Alice Springs is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Cromwell. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Alice Springs or Cromwell?

Alice Springs 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 town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Cromwell. 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. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Cromwell or Alice Springs?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Alice Springs is $95, while the average daily cost in Cromwell is $81. 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 Alice Springs and Cromwell in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alice Springs $50
    Cromwell $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alice Springs $100
    Cromwell $78
Compare Hotels in Alice Springs and Cromwell

Looking for a hotel in Alice Springs or Cromwell? 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 Alice Springs


Hotels in Cromwell


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: Alice Springs Hotel Prices and Cromwell Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alice Springs $20
    Cromwell $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alice Springs

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

  • Uluru to Alice Springs or Alice to Uluru 1-Way Luxe Transfer: $127

Is it cheaper to fly into Alice Springs or Cromwell?

Prices for flights to both Cromwell and Alice Springs 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
    Alice Springs $24
    Cromwell $26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alice Springs

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

  • From Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner: $219
  • Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner: $233

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alice Springs $14
    Cromwell $16

Tours and Activities in Alice Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alice Springs.

  • A Town Like Alice: Half-Day Tour of Alice Springs: $95
  • Alice Springs Camel Tour: $59
  • Alice Springs Desert Park General Entry Ticket: $26
  • Alice Springs Desert Park Nocturnal Tour: $28
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $109
  • West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour: $121
  • Alice Town And Country Half Day Sunset Tour - Small Group: $125
  • Alice Town and Country Half Day Sunset Tour -Small Group: $123
  • Australia’s Red Centre: A Self-Guided West Macs Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Best of Alice Springs Full Day Tour: $162
  • East Mac's Adventure Day Tour Mondays and Fridays: $125
  • East MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group: $225

Tours and Activities in Cromwell

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cromwell.

  • Queenstown: Mount Cook Premium Guided Day Tour: $148
  • Ultimate Lake Dunstan Trail Experience Bike & Boat Return: $172

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alice Springs $17
    Cromwell $9.14
Typical Alcohol Prices in Alice Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Alice Springs:


  • Glass of Wine in Alice Springs
    $4.54

Sample the Local Flavors in Cromwell

Also in Cromwell, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wines and Views: Private Wine Tour of Otago from Queenstow: $1,488


When comparing the travel costs between Alice Springs and Cromwell, 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 Cromwell Expensive?.