A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a cultural, fascinating, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a breathtaking, other-worldly, and spiritual national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Beijing and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Forbidden City
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing. Although Beijing and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both popular with visitors, Beijing has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beijing is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture.

How is Beijing different from Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Beijing. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Beijing are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Beijing has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Dining out in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an experience not to be missed. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Nightlife?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Beijing is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Beijing has a large number of nightlife venues. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Resorts?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Beijing is not a resort destination.


Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Hiking?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Beijing is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Beijing is well-known for its shopping. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Families?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.


Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Beijing and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Students?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Beijing is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Beijing is very popular with students. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.


Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Beijing is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Beijing can get you around easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) a more walkable city?

Beijing
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a national park with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable national park. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

It's fun to spend time in either Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Beijing due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 3-4 days is enough time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Beijing. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Beijing. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Beijing.


  • How many days in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beijing 3-7 
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4

One day in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Beijing is a big city destination where you can fill many days. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find museums and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Beijing is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. It offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Beijing is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A week in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It is common to spend one week here. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Beijing?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beijing is $77, while the average daily cost in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $156. 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 Beijing and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beijing $40
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beijing $80
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $120
Compare Hotels in Beijing and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Looking for a hotel in Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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 Beijing


Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beijing $7.87
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $77
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Beijing

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Beijing:


  • Taxi
    $4.81
  • Train from Airport for Two
    $7.05
  • Taxi to Hotel
    $8.46
  • 2 Metro Passes
    $2.26
  • Metro
    $0.56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Beijing

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Beijing:

  • [Airport Transfer] Beijing Capital Airport ⇔ Beijing City Transfer (one way) ☆ High reputation for service! <Charter charter>: $24
  • Visit Great Wall With Beijing Capital Airport Round-Way Transfer : $215
  • Ultimate Forbidden City and Mutianyu Great Wall Discovery with Airport Transfer: $186
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Beijing HTL-APT (PEK): $62
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Beijing APT-HTL (PEK): $62
  • Transfer: Beijing City Center to Beijing Airport (PEK): $40
  • Transfer: Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) to Beijing City: $38
  • Tianjin International Cruise Port to Beijing Capital Airport by private transfer: $148
  • Tianjin International Cruise Port Transfer from Beijing: $130
  • Tianjin Cruise Port to Beijing Daxing Airport by Private Transfer: $148
  • Tianjin Cruise Port Private Transfer to Beijing International Airport: $153
  • Tianjin Binhai Airport to Beijing - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $164

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Beijing or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Prices for flights to both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Beijing 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
    Beijing $20
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $48
Typical Food Prices in Beijing

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beijing:


  • Popcorn
    $0.85
  • Hot Pot Dinner
    $7.05
  • Dumpling Breakfast for Two
    $2.82
  • Watermelon
    $1.97
  • Peking Duck Dinner for 2
    $17
  • Two Popsicles
    $0.85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Beijing

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Beijing.

  • Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings and Cuisine by Sunflowerli Renowned Chef : $20
  • Online Cooking Class Orange Chicken by Sunflower Li: $20
  • Online Cooking Class Kungpao Chicken: $20
  • Beijing Acrobatic Show Tickets w/ Optional Dinner or Transfer: $48
  • 3.5-Hour Walking Food Tour: A Bite of History at Beijing Niujie Street: $49
  • Temple of Heaven Private Tour w/Option Show &Dinner: $54
  • Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • Beijing Gulou Night Market Food Tour: $68
  • Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour with Beer and Tastings: $75
  • discovery more Beijing back street evening food tour with locals : $79

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $136
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $199
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $214
  • Mt Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock Resort inc Dinner: $248

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beijing $25
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $38
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beijing

Here are a few typical costs in Beijing for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Entry to Summer Palace for Two
    $8.46
  • Two Opera Tickets
    $60
  • Temple of Heaven Park Entrance (for 2)
    $9.87
  • Forbidden City (for 2)
    $17
  • Forbidden City Tickets
    $17
  • Audio Guides at Forbidden City
    $11

Tours and Activities in Beijing

Here are a few actual costs in Beijing for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1-Day Mutianyu Great Wall and Beijing Airport Drop off Tour: $235
  • 2-Day Small-Group Tour of Beijing Highlights, No Shopping: $229
  • 4-Hour Beijing Layover Tour to Hutong from Daxing Airport: $145
  • 9 Day Shared Tour from Beijing to Shanghai: $299
  • All Inclusive Private Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour: $204
  • All Inclusive Private Tour: Juyongguan Greatwall, Sacred Road, MingTombs : $176
  • Beijing 2 Summer Palace Private Garden Tour: $140
  • Beijing Private Tour of Ming Tombs, Summer Palace, Bird's Nest and Water Cube: $297
  • China National Museum Ticket Pre-booking and Tiananmen Square : $9.50
  • Forbidden City Tour : $110
  • Full Day Private Tour Incredible Beijing City Highlights: $179
  • Lama temple -Confucius temple - DongYue temple Private Cultural Tour: $156

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $14
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $69
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $69
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $73
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $115
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $153
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $153
  • From Yulara: Discover Uluru Half Day Bike Tour: $170
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience: $255

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beijing $12
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Beijing

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Beijing:

  • Beijing Brewery Bike Tour: $99
  • Private Tour-Drum Tower, Hutong Food Taste and Local Brewery Beer: $120
  • 5-Hour Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour from Beijing: $178
  • Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour and Mutianyu Great Wall Visit: $238


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is in Pacific, 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 Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than you might in Beijing.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beijing Expensive? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.