A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mount Bromo vs. Rockhampton for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

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

Should I visit Mount Bromo or Rockhampton? 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.

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is a breathtaking, scenic, and spectacular volcano. Mount Bromo is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mount Bromo travel costs.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a charming, cultural, and natural town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rockhampton travel costs.

Mount Bromo and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rockhampton than Mount Bromo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rockhampton is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Mount Bromo is more popular for its impressive beauty. Mount Bromo is well known for its sunrise views and scenic setting. Rockhampton is well known for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. Also, Rockhampton is famous for the Rockhampton Heritage Village.

How is Mount Bromo different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a great town for its historical sights. However, Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

Rockhampton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.

Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Rockhampton. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mount Bromo. You'll find cheap noodle and rice dishes at the warungs in Cemoro Lawang. Some hotels have breakfast and you should pick up some food and water for the hike at a grocery store in town. There are also some stalls along the route, some that are open even at 3am to accommodate early hikers.

Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a popular place for nightlife. However, Mount Bromo is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Rockhampton has a few options to choose from. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

People don't go to Mount Bromo for the nightlife. The stars and the early morning hike are the only nightlife you'll find here.

Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a popular place for its beaches. However, Mount Bromo is not a beach destination.

Rockhampton is a good option for a beach vacation. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Mount Bromo is not a beach destination.


Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

If you're looking to go hiking, Mount Bromo and Rockhampton both have high quality trails.

Many visitors go to Mount Bromo for the hiking trails. The setting is beautiful, and best experienced at sunrise, which means most people hike through the night. Some people take horses and most people organized guided tours.

Rockhampton is a popular spot for hiking. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a popular place for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rockhampton. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton More Beautiful?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Mount Bromo is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Rockhampton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Mount Bromo is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The setting and landscapes are spectacular, particularly at sunrise when most visitors make the trip.

Rockhampton is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its family-friendly activities.

Rockhampton is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

Mount Bromo is a family-friendly place to visit. It really depends on the age of your kids and their personality and adaptability as to whether this is a good trip for them. Many of the tours start in the middle of the night so you can see the spectacular sunrise. The trip can be a bit uncomfortable, but everyone is guaranteed an adventure!

Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

With fun activities for couples, both Mount Bromo and Rockhampton make for a high quality place to visit.

Mount Bromo is a great volcano if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic sunrises and stunning views make this a wonderful destination for couples. The surroundings are surreal and you will long remember the experience.

Rockhampton is a very popular place to visit for couples. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

For backpackers, both Mount Bromo and Rockhampton are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Mount Bromo. Some backpackers choose to go without a guided tour, and this will let you save money. Cemoro Lawang is the closest town to the volcano.

Rockhampton is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.


Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Mount Bromo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Rockhampton. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Mount Bromo is not popular with students.

Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Mount Bromo and Rockhampton both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Bromo. Most people visit with a guided tour because this saves a lot of time and allows you to see the sunrise.

Public transit is generally limited in Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Mount Bromo or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Mount Bromo
Rockhampton

Mount Bromo and Rockhampton are notable when it comes to walkability.

Mount Bromo is somewhat walkable. The walk takes you across the sand and up some stairs. It's usually less than an hour.

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Mount Bromo Worth Visiting? and Is Rockhampton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Mount Bromo?

How long in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rockhampton than Mount Bromo 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 Rockhampton.


  • How many days in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mount Bromo 1-2 
    Rockhampton 2-4

One day in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking volcano of Mount Bromo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this volcano has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional town of Rockhampton. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the scenic destination of Mount Bromo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This volcano offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Rockhampton. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

The scenic volcano of Mount Bromo offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The charming town of Rockhampton offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Bromo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rockhampton. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Australia, and The Best Photography Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Rockhampton or Mount Bromo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mount Bromo is $25, while the average daily cost in Rockhampton is $208. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mount Bromo and Rockhampton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mount Bromo $10
    Rockhampton $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mount Bromo $20
    Rockhampton $204
Compare Hotels in Mount Bromo and Rockhampton

Looking for a hotel in Mount Bromo or Rockhampton? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mount Bromo


Hotels in Rockhampton


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Rockhampton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.03
    Rockhampton $19

Is it cheaper to fly into Mount Bromo or Rockhampton?

Prices for flights to both Rockhampton and Mount Bromo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mount Bromo $8.84
    Rockhampton $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.88
    Rockhampton $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mount Bromo $4.43
    Rockhampton $13


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

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