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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle?

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 Newcastle. 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 diverse, colorful, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a coastal, vibrant, and high energy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur and Newcastle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kuala Lumpur than Newcastle. Kuala Lumpur is bigger than Newcastle, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kuala Lumpur is better known for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Newcastle is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Newcastle and is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. Also, Kuala Lumpur is famous for The Petronas Twin Towers. Newcastle is well known for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kuala Lumpur on the map. 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 Newcastle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

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

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newcastle. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Newcastle is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Newcastle for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Newcastle is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Newcastle offers some nice hiking trails. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Kuala Lumpur is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newcastle. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Newcastle is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Newcastle is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

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

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Newcastle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for students. However, Newcastle is not popular with students.

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

Newcastle is not popular with students.

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

Kuala Lumpur is terrific for its public transit. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Newcastle has some public transit options. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable destination. 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.

Newcastle is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-4 days is enough time in Newcastle.

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

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 Newcastle, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this coastal 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 Newcastle?

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.

Newcastle 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 Newcastle?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Newcastle. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Newcastle?

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.

Newcastle 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle?

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

Newcastle 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 Newcastle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Newcastle. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Newcastle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kuala Lumpur is generally a little warmer than Newcastlein January. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 28°C (82°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kuala Lumpur this time of the year. In the summer, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein January. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 232 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle. Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the summer. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in July than Newcastlein January. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle in the Autumn?

Both Newcastle and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Newcastle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Newcastle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in April.

Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Newcastle during autumn. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 199 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In October, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Newcastlein April. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle in the Winter?

Both Newcastle and Kuala Lumpur during the winter 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, most visitors come to Newcastle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Newcastle averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

In Newcastle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein July. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 206 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in January than Newcastlein July. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Newcastle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Newcastle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Newcastlein October. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 28°C (82°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newcastle this time of the year. Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Newcastle during spring. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Newcastlein October. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Kuala Lumpur