A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hobart vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hobart and Aoraki Mount Cook 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.

Hobart

Hobart is a fascinating, quaint, and historical city. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a dramatic, breathtaking, and world renowned mountain. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Hobart and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hobart. Although Hobart and Aoraki Mount Cook are both popular with visitors, Hobart has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hobart is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Aoraki Mount Cook is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hobart is popular for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails. It is also home to Battery Point. Aoraki Mount Cook is popular for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand.

How is Hobart different from Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aoraki Mount Cook and Hobart. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Hobart is great for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hobart. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Hobart is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hobart has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

Aoraki Mount Cook offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village, but if you're doing any hiking you should pack your own food.

Is Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Hobart is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Hobart has a few options to choose from. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is renowned for hiking. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Around Aoraki Mount Cook visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are beginner trails as well as world class routes that bring out expert climbers. As the highest peak in New Zealand, many people come here for the challenge, but if you're looking for a most simple experience, the hiking opportunities are still abundant.

Hobart is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.


Is the Shopping Better in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Hobart is great for its shopping areas. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Hobart. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Hobart is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hobart. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of short walks that are perfect for little legs. Kids will also enjoy the boat rides on the lakes and the area's superb stargazing.

Is Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a great mountain for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the stunning glaciers, beautiful walks, and iconic views. Many couples take helicopter rides to fully experience the area. Stargazing and hiking is also high on the list of must-do romantic activities.

Hobart is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.


Is Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

For backpackers, both Hobart and Aoraki Mount Cook are good places to visit.

Hobart is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

Plenty of backpackers visit Aoraki Mount Cook. While many activities in the area are expensive, the hiking is world class and there are a few hostels and camping opportunities nearby.

Is Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Hobart is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Hobart offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Aoraki Mount Cook. Having a car is essential unless you take a private tour that provides transportation.

Is Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Hobart
Aoraki Mount Cook

Hobart is great for its ease of walking around. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its walkability.

Hobart is a very walkable destination. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring on foot.

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not very walkable. While there are many trails through the region, you really must have a car to access the trail heads and efficiently get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Hobart Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Hobart?

How long in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hobart, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aoraki Mount Cook.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hobart than Aoraki Mount Cook. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hobart that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hobart than Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Hobart.


  • How many days in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hobart 2-3 
    Aoraki Mount Cook 2-4

One day in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Hobart, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Aoraki Mount Cook. 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.

A weekend in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With museums and nightlife around the charming city of Hobart, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Aoraki Mount Cook 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.

Five days in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Hobart. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aoraki Mount Cook. 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.


A week in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Hobart is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the scenic destination of Aoraki Mount Cook. This mountain 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Aoraki Mount Cook or Hobart?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hobart is $134, while the average daily cost in Aoraki Mount Cook is $105. 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 Hobart and Aoraki Mount Cook in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hobart $76
    Aoraki Mount Cook $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hobart $152
    Aoraki Mount Cook $118
Compare Hotels in Hobart and Aoraki Mount Cook

Looking for a hotel in Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook? 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 Hobart


Hotels in Aoraki Mount Cook


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: Hobart Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hobart $28
    Aoraki Mount Cook $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hobart

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

  • Port Arthur Return Transfer, mimimum 4 passengers : $218
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Airport (HBA) to Arthur Cruise Port: $50
  • Private Transfer from Hobart City Hotels to Arthur Cruise Port : $50
  • Hobart to Hobart Int Airport (HBA) - Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Airport (HBA) to Hobart Cruise Port: $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Cruise Port to Hobart city hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart City Hotels to Hobart Cruise Port: $29
  • Grand Cayman Shared Airport Transfer: $22
  • Hobart Airport: Express Bus Transfer to Hobart City: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Hobart or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Prices for flights to both Aoraki Mount Cook and Hobart 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
    Hobart $28
    Aoraki Mount Cook $26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hobart $23
    Aoraki Mount Cook $23

Tours and Activities in Hobart

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

  • Grand Hobart with Richmond Village Tour: $102
  • 3 day Tasmanian highlights tour – Hobart, Port Arthur and Bruny Island: $208
  • 48 Hour Hobart City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: $33
  • Art and History Trail Walking Tour in Tasmania: $25
  • Bonorong Wildlife Park and Richmond Afternoon Tour from Hobart: $77
  • Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Half-Day Tour from Hobart: $76
  • Bruny Island Food, Sightseeing, Guided Lighthouse Tour & Lunch : $172
  • Bruny Island Traveller - Gourmet Tasting and Sightseeing Day Trip from Hobart: $175
  • Cruise Ship Wine Shore Excursion: $163
  • Day Tour in Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Richmond: $118
  • Derwent River Historic Harbour Cruise From Hobart: $18
  • Easy Bike Tour - Mt Wellington Summit Descent & Rainforest Ride: $98

Tours and Activities in Aoraki Mount Cook

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Aoraki Mount Cook.

  • (MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch: $178
  • 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour: $289
  • Day Tours from Mount Cook: $151
  • Fox Glacier Nature Tour: $54
  • Franz Josef Nature Tour: $54
  • From Christchurch: Mount Cook One-Way Discovery Tour: $118
  • From Queenstown: Mount Cook Private Day Tour: $1,188
  • Gold Hunting Adventures: $223
  • Mount Cook to Queenstown Day Tour: $148
  • Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Hike Small Group Tour from Queenstown: $151
  • Mt Cook Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Optional Activities : $151
  • Mt Cook Tour: Return to Christchurch, Queenstown or Dunedin: $772

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hobart $15
    Aoraki Mount Cook $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Hobart

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

  • Tasmanian Premium Wine Tour with Tasmanian Cheese Platter: $135
  • Signature Wine Tour - Hobart and SE Tasmania: $144
  • 7- 8 Hour StelaVino Guided Wine Tours From Hobart, Tasmania: $182
  • From Drink Tasmania Whisky Distillery Tour: $195
  • Tasmanian Whisky Distillery Tour: $197
  • Whisky Distillery Tours and Tastings - Hobart/SE Tasmania: $229
  • Tasmanian Tipples: Hobart Distillery Discovery Tours: $229
  • 6 Hour Distillery Guided Tours in Tasmania with Lunch and Tasting: $231
  • Whisky Distillery Tours and Tastings in Hobart and SE Tasmania: $231

Sample the Local Flavors in Aoraki Mount Cook

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aoraki Mount Cook:

  • Kinross Winery: Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience: $15
  • Kinross Winery: Valli Wine Tasting Experience: $27
  • Kinross Winery: Premium Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience: $45


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hobart and Aoraki Mount Cook, we can see that Hobart is more expensive. And not only is Aoraki Mount Cook much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aoraki Mount Cook would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Hobart would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hobart than you might in Aoraki Mount Cook.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hobart Expensive? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Expensive?.