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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

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 Hobart. 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 Kuala Lumpur is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Hobart

Hobart is a historical, charming, and fascinating city. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Hobart travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Hobart: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur. Although Kuala Lumpur and Hobart are popular destinations, Kuala Lumpur has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hobart attracts visitors for its hiking. Kuala Lumpur is famous 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. Hobart is famous for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Hobart?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

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.

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

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

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

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hobart Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Kuala Lumpur for the nightlife scene. 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 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 Kuala Lumpur or Hobart Better for Hiking?

Hobart 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 Hobart. 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.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hobart More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Hobart is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Kuala Lumpur is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Hobart is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hobart Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Hobart 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.

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

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

Kuala Lumpur is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hobart Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Hobart 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.

Hobart is not popular with students.

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

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Kuala Lumpur has a great public transit system. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Hobart has a few public transit options. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Hobart a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Hobart are very good when it comes to walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hobart or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kuala Lumpur and Hobart. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than in Hobart. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hobart.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Hobart. 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 Hobart. 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 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 Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

Kuala Lumpur is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Hobart, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quaint city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

Kuala Lumpur 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.

Hobart 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 Hobart?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Hobart. 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 Hobart?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Kuala Lumpur. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Hobart 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 Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Hobart, we can see that Hobart 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 Hobart 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 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 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 Hobart Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hobart. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Hobart, 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 Kuala Lumpur or Hobart?

Hobart has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Hobart in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Hobart. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hobart because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Hobart. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Hobart averages at about 17°C (63°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hobart this time of the year. In Kuala Lumpur, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Hobart during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Hobartin January. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Hobart in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Hobart. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Hobart this time of year.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Hobartin April. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Hobart fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hobartin April. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 178 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Hobartin April. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Hobart in the Winter?

Both Hobart and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Hobart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Hobart in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Hobart fluctuates around 9°C (47°F)in July.

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Hobart during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Hobartin July. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Hobart in the Spring?

Both Hobart and Kuala Lumpur during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Hobart. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Hobart averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

In Hobart, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hobartin October. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 209 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Hobartin October. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hobart and Kuala Lumpur