A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Cromwell for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur and Cromwell. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a friendly, diverse, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cromwell

Cromwell is a historical, cultural, and outdoorsy town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur and Cromwell: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur. Although Kuala Lumpur and Cromwell are popular destinations, Kuala Lumpur has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cromwell attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Cromwell and is known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also well known for The Petronas Twin Towers. Cromwell is famous for its fruit farms, orchards, and vineyards.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Cromwell?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell Better for Skiing?

Cromwell is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a skiing destination.

Cromwell is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The town isn't far from several ski fields, so it attracts winter sports enthusiasts when the weather gets cold.

Kuala Lumpur is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur are world-renowned. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Kuala Lumpur have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Kuala Lumpur has something for everybody. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell Better for Hiking?

Cromwell is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cromwell. There are many beautiful walks in the area that take you through diverse landscapes and to impressive views.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Kuala Lumpur draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Cromwell are very good family-friendly destinations.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Cromwell is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur and Cromwell both very good destinations for a couple.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Couples visit Cromwell frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kuala Lumpur. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cromwell. There are a handful of great hostels in the area and plenty of things to keep backpackers entertained.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Cromwell is not popular with students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular city for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Cromwell is not popular with students.

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

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Cromwell is not known for its public transit.

Kuala Lumpur has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Public transit is generally limited in Cromwell. Public transit around town is limited to a couple of buses.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Cromwell or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kuala Lumpur than Cromwell because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cromwell.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

Kuala Lumpur is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Cromwell, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

Kuala Lumpur 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kuala Lumpur, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cromwell is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kuala Lumpur, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the historical destination of Cromwell. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Cromwell?

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to explore. 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.

Cromwell is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.

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

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