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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne?

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 Melbourne. 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Melbourne travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Melbourne. While Melbourne is larger than Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Melbourne attracts visitors for its beaches. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Melbourne 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. Melbourne is famous for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Melbourne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Many visitors head to Melbourne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Kuala Lumpur is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Melbourne is an experience not to be missed. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Melbourne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne Better for Beaches?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Melbourne for it's beautiful beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Melbourne. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne are superb 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.

Melbourne is a very kid-friendly city. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne Better for Students?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne are amazing destinations for students.

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

Many students frequent Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne 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. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Melbourne. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

Is Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne are superb 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.

Melbourne is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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

Should I spend more time in Melbourne or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne?

In either Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Kuala Lumpur has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Melbourne. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-5 days is enough time in Melbourne.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Melbourne. 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 Melbourne. 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Melbourne, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this livable city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Melbourne?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Melbourne is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Melbourne?

People visit Kuala Lumpur because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

In Melbourne, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this progressive big city offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Melbourne is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Scuba Diving Tours in Australia, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne, we can see that Melbourne 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Melbourne 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 Melbourne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne, 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 Melbourne?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne in the Summer?

Both Melbourne and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Melbourne for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Melbourne averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Melbourne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Melbourne during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 271 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Melbournein January. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne in the Autumn?

Both Melbourne and Kuala Lumpur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Melbourne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Melbournein April. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Melbourne fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Melbournein April. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 170 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Melbournein April. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Melbourne. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, most visitors come to Melbourne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Melbourne in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Melbourne fluctuates around 9°C (49°F)in July.

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Melbournein July. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Melbourne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Melbourne. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Melbourne averages at about 14°C (57°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Melbournein October. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 216 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Melbournein October. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Melbourne and Kuala Lumpur