A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Wollongong for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Beijing or Wollongong?

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 Wollongong 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 jam-packed, cultural, and fascinating city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a student-friendly, trendy, and vibrant coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Beijing and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Wollongong?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing than Wollongong. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Beijing is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Wollongong attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Beijing is more touristy than Wollongong and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also well known for The Forbidden City. Wollongong is famous for its surrounding nature and urban beaches.

How is Beijing different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Beijing has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Wollongong specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Wollongong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Beijing is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Wollongong makes for a great culinary experience. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Beijing or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Wollongong has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife in Wollongong has something for everybody. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

Is Beijing or Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Wollongong is a great destination for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Wollongong attract visitors from all over. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Beijing or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Wollongong?

Beijing is great for its shopping areas. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Beijing. 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.

Wollongong is a great destination for shopping. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Beijing or Wollongong Better for Families?

Wollongong is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Wollongong is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

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 Wollongong Better for Couples?

Wollongong is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Wollongong frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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 Wollongong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Beijing. 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.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Beijing or Wollongong Better for Students?

Beijing is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for students.

Beijing is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Wollongong is a good city to visit for students. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Is Beijing or Wollongong Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Beijing and Wollongong.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Wollongong. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

Is Beijing or Wollongong a more walkable city?

Wollongong is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Wollongong is a very walkable destination. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

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 Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Beijing or Wollongong. 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 2-4 days is enough time in Wollongong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Wollongong 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.

One day in Beijing or Wollongong?

When visiting Beijing, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Wollongong, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal city 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 Wollongong?

When visiting Beijing, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Wollongong, 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 Wollongong has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Wollongong?

Beijing, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wollongong 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.

A week in Beijing or Wollongong?

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Wollongong, we can see that Wollongong 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 Wollongong 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 Wollongong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wollongong 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 Wollongong Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Wollongong?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Wollongong. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Wollongong, 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 Beijing or Wollongong?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wollongong is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Beijing has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Beijing or Wollongong in the Summer?

Both Wollongong and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wollongong in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Beijing is a little warmer than Wollongong in the summer. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Wollongong fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

In Wollongong, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongongin January. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Wollongongin January. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Wollongong in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Wollongong. Many visitors come to Beijing in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wollongong for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Beijing is cooler than Wollongong. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beijing in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Wollongong averages at about 18°C (64°F)in April.

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Wollongong during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Wollongongin April. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Wollongong in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Wollongong. Most visitors come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beijing can be very cold during winter. In January, Beijing is generally much colder than Wollongongin July. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around -4°C (26°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongongin July. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Wollongongin July. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Wollongong in the Spring?

Both Wollongong and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year.

Beijing is cooler than Wollongong in the spring. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Wollongong fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongong during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Wollongongin October. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Beijing