A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hobart vs. Cromwell for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Hobart 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 Hobart 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.

Hobart

Hobart is a fascinating, quaint, and historical city. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cromwell

Cromwell is a cultural, outdoorsy, and historical town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Hobart 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
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 Hobart or Cromwell?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hobart than Cromwell, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hobart is better known for its museums, food, and shopping, while Cromwell is more popular for its skiing and small town charm. Hobart is more touristy than Cromwell and is known for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails. Also, Hobart is famous for Battery Point. Cromwell is well known for its fruit farms, orchards, and vineyards.

How is Hobart different from Cromwell?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hobart or Cromwell Better for Skiing?

Hobart
Cromwell

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

For winter sports and skiing, Cromwell is a great destination to visit. The town isn't far from several ski fields, so it attracts winter sports enthusiasts when the weather gets cold.

Hobart is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hobart or Cromwell?

Hobart
Cromwell

Hobart is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cromwell. There are some interesting historical activities around town like Goldfields Mining Centre.

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

Hobart
Cromwell

Hobart is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cromwell area. 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 Hobart or Cromwell Better for Nightlife?

Hobart
Cromwell

The vibe at night is notable in both Hobart and Cromwell.

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.

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 Hobart or Cromwell Better for Hiking?

Hobart
Cromwell

Both Hobart and Cromwell are destinations which offer great hiking.

Many visitors go to Hobart for the hiking trails. 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.

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 Hobart or Cromwell?

Hobart
Cromwell

Hobart is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Cromwell to go shopping. There's a farmers market in town as well as several local vendors and cute shops.

Is Hobart or Cromwell Better for Families?

Hobart
Cromwell

Both Hobart and Cromwell are great to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hobart is very family-friendly. 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.

Cromwell is known to be 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 Hobart or Cromwell Better for Couples?

Hobart
Cromwell

Both Hobart and Cromwell are great 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.

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 Hobart or Cromwell Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hobart
Cromwell

For backpackers, both Hobart and Cromwell are notable 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 Cromwell. There are a handful of great hostels in the area and plenty of things to keep backpackers entertained.

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

Hobart
Cromwell

Hobart is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Cromwell is not known 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 generally limited in Cromwell. Public transit around town is limited to a couple of buses.


Is Hobart or Cromwell a more walkable city?

Hobart
Cromwell

Hobart is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Cromwell or Hobart?

How long in Hobart or Cromwell?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hobart or Cromwell to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hobart than Cromwell because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hobart, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cromwell.

Families should spend more time in Hobart than Cromwell. 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 Cromwell. 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 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 Hobart.


  • How many days in Hobart or Cromwell? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hobart 2-3 
    Cromwell 1-2

One day in Hobart or Cromwell?

The city of Hobart offers 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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cromwell. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Hobart or Cromwell?

Hobart is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Hobart, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cromwell 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.


Five days in Hobart or Cromwell?

Hobart is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

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. 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 Cromwell?

Hobart is a great place to explore. 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 city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Cromwell. This town 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Cromwell 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 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 Hobart and Cromwell in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hobart $76
    Cromwell $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hobart $152
    Cromwell $78
Compare Hotels in Hobart and Cromwell

Looking for a hotel in Hobart 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 Hobart


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: Hobart Hotel Prices and Cromwell Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hobart $28
    Cromwell $25

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 Cruise Port to Hobart Airport (HBA): $29
  • 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 Cromwell?

Prices for flights to both Cromwell 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
    Cromwell $26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hobart $23
    Cromwell $16

Tours and Activities in Hobart

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

  • Grand Hobart with Richmond Village Tour: $96
  • 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 : $173
  • 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: $19
  • Easy Bike Tour - Mt Wellington Summit Descent & Rainforest Ride: $99

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
    Hobart $15
    Cromwell $9.14

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: $136
  • Signature Wine Tour - Hobart and SE Tasmania: $144
  • Signature Wine Tour from Hobart and Southern Tasmania: $146
  • 7- 8 Hour StelaVino Guided Wine Tours From Hobart, Tasmania: $182
  • From Drink Tasmania Whisky Distillery Tour: $195
  • Tasmanian Whisky Distillery Tour: $198
  • 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: $232
  • Whisky Distillery Tours and Tastings in Hobart and SE Tasmania: $232

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

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