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

Should you visit Hobart 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 Hobart 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.

Hobart

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

Cairns

Cairns is a adventure-filled, tropical, and idyllic city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hobart and Cairns: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hobart or Cairns?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cairns. Although Hobart and Cairns are both popular with visitors, Cairns has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cairns is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Hobart is known for its museums. Cairns is more touristy than Hobart and is known for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. It is also home to the Great Barrier Reef. Hobart is popular for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails.

How is Hobart different from Cairns?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hobart is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Hobart offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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 Hobart or Cairns? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Hobart and Cairns.

Hobart has a huge number of terrific 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.

Dining out in Cairns is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Hobart or Cairns Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Cairns is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Hobart. 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.

Is Hobart or Cairns Better for Resorts?

Cairns is great for its luxury resorts. However, Hobart 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.

Hobart is not a resort destination.

Is Hobart or Cairns Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hobart 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.

Hobart is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hobart or Cairns Better for Beaches?

Cairns is renowned for the beache. However, Hobart 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).

Hobart is not a beach destination.

Is Hobart or Cairns Better for Hiking?

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

Around Cairns visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

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 Cairns?

If you're looking to go shopping, Hobart and Cairns both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Hobart is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Hobart or Cairns Better for Families?

Cairns is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Hobart is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Hobart or Cairns Better for Couples?

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

Hobart is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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 Hobart or Cairns Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Cairns is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

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

Hobart and Cairns both offer good public transit to get you around.

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.

Cairns has a few public transit options. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

Is Hobart or Cairns a more walkable city?

Hobart is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Hobart is a very walkable destination. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring 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 Hobart Worth Visiting? and Is Cairns Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairns or Hobart?

How long in Hobart or Cairns?

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

Families should spend more time in Cairns than Hobart. 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 Hobart. 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 Hobart 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 Hobart or Cairns?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hobart. 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 shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cairns. 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 Cairns?

Hobart is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cairns is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hobart or Cairns?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hobart. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairns. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hobart or Cairns?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Hobart. This city 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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Cairns. This city 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 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hobart and Cairns, we can see that Hobart is more expensive. And not only is Cairns much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cairns would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cairns 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 Cairns.

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

Which is Bigger, Hobart or Cairns?

Cairns has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hobart. When comparing the sizes of Hobart 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.

When is the best time to visit Hobart or Cairns?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Hobart or Cairns in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hobart and Cairns. Many travelers come to Hobart for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cairns in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hobart is much colder than Cairns. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hobart in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Cairns averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Cairns receives a lot of rain in the summer. In January, Hobart usually receives less rain than Cairns. Hobart gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 429 mm (16.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, November to March is the rainy season in Cairns.

Should I visit Hobart or Cairns in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hobart as well as Cairns. Many visitors come to Hobart in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Cairns for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In April, Hobart is generally much colder than Cairns. Daily temperatures in Hobart average around 14°C (57°F), and Cairns fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

It's quite rainy in Cairns. Hobart usually gets less rain in April than Cairns. Hobart gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 273 mm (10.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to October in Cairns is the dry season.

Should I visit Hobart or Cairns in the Winter?

Both Cairns and Hobart are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hobart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cairns because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hobart is much colder than Cairns in the winter. The daily temperature in Hobart averages around 9°C (47°F) in July, and Cairns fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Hobart usually receives more rain than Cairns. Hobart gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hobart or Cairns in the Spring?

Both Cairns and Hobart during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Cairns this time of year.

In the spring, Hobart is much colder than Cairns. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hobart in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Cairns averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Hobart usually gets more rain in October than Cairns. Hobart gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cairns receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. April to October is the dry season in Cairns. November to March is the rainy season in Cairns.

Typical Weather for Cairns and Hobart