A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Melbourne vs. Canberra for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Melbourne or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Melbourne or Canberra? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Melbourne and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Canberra?

You'll generally find more things to do in Melbourne than Canberra. Melbourne is bigger than Canberra, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Melbourne is better known for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Canberra is more popular for its hiking. Melbourne is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. Also, Melbourne is famous for the Royal Botanic Gardens. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Melbourne different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Melbourne or Canberra?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Melbourne and Canberra.

Melbourne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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

Both Melbourne and Canberra offer high quality local cuisine and restaurants.

Melbourne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Melbourne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Beaches?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Melbourne is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Canberra?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Melbourne or Canberra.

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

Canberra is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Melbourne and Canberra make for a notable place to visit.

Melbourne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Melbourne is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Melbourne. 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Students?

Melbourne is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Is Melbourne or Canberra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Melbourne has some very good public transit options. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Melbourne or Canberra a more walkable city?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Canberra?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Melbourne than Canberra 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 Melbourne.

One day in Melbourne or Canberra?

Melbourne is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Canberra. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Melbourne or Canberra?

Melbourne 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Melbourne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Canberra. 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.

Five days in Melbourne or Canberra?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Canberra. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Melbourne or Canberra?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Canberra 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Canberra?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne and Canberra, 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 Melbourne or Canberra?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Melbourne or Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra and Melbourne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

Melbourne is around the same temperature as Canberra in the summer. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In January, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Canberra. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Melbourne or Canberra in the Autumn?

Both Canberra and Melbourne during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Melbourne is around the same temperature as Canberra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Melbourne in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Canberra averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Canberra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Melbourne usually gets less rain in April than Canberra. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or Canberra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Melbourne and Canberra. Many travelers come to Melbourne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Canberra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Melbourne is generally cooler than Canberra. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 9°C (49°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In July, Melbourne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Canberra. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Melbourne or Canberra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Melbourne as well as Canberra. Many visitors come to Melbourne in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months.

Melbourne is around the same temperature as Canberra in the spring. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Melbourne usually gets less rain in October than Canberra. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Melbourne