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

Should you visit Mount Bromo or Wellington?

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

Should I visit Mount Bromo or Wellington? 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 spectacular, breathtaking, and scenic volcano. Mount Bromo is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Mount Bromo travel costs.

Wellington

Wellington is a funky, compact, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Wellington travel costs.

Mount Bromo and Wellington: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
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
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Mount Bromo or Wellington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wellington. Although Mount Bromo and Wellington are popular destinations, Wellington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wellington is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Bromo attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Mount Bromo is famous for its sunrise views and scenic setting. Wellington is famous for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also well known for Zealandia Ecosanctuary.

How is Mount Bromo different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.

Wellington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

Mount Bromo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a great city 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 Wellington. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

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 Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for nightlife. However, Mount Bromo is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Wellington has something for everybody. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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 Wellington Better for Beaches?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for its beaches. However, Mount Bromo is not a beach destination.

Wellington is considered a top beach destination. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Mount Bromo is not a beach destination.


Is Mount Bromo or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Mount Bromo is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Mount Bromo. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Mount Bromo or Wellington?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for shopping. However, Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Mount Bromo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Bromo or Wellington More Beautiful?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Mount Bromo is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Wellington 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.

Wellington is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Mount Bromo or Wellington Better for Families?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

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

Wellington is a very family-friendly destination. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

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 Wellington Better for Couples?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Mount Bromo is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Mount Bromo makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Wellington is a good volcano for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

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

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for backpackers.

Wellington is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Mount Bromo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.


Is Mount Bromo or Wellington Better for Students?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

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

It's common for students to visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Mount Bromo is not popular with students.

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

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Mount Bromo is not known for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Wellington. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

Public transit is generally 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.

Is Mount Bromo or Wellington a more walkable city?

Mount Bromo
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for its walkability. Also, Mount Bromo is not as popular, but is still a nice volcano for its high level of walkability.

Wellington is very walkable. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Mount Bromo?

How long in Mount Bromo or Wellington?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wellington 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 Wellington.


  • How many days in Mount Bromo or Wellington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mount Bromo 1-2 
    Wellington 2-3

One day in Mount Bromo or Wellington?

With around the breathtaking volcano of Mount Bromo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mount Bromo, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back city of Wellington. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Wellington?

With around the destination of Mount Bromo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this volcano.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the compact destination of Wellington. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city 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 Wellington?

Mount Bromo, a popular volcano, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The compact city of Wellington offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Wellington?

Mount Bromo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wellington. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Wellington 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 Wellington is $124. 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 Wellington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mount Bromo $10
    Wellington $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mount Bromo $20
    Wellington $120
Compare Hotels in Mount Bromo and Wellington

Looking for a hotel in Mount Bromo or Wellington? 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 Wellington


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: Wellington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.03
    Wellington $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Wellington

Also for Wellington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Wellington Airport(WLG) to Wellington-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $156
  • Private Transfer from Wellington hotels to Wellington Cruise Port: $106
  • Private Airport Transfer Service Vice Versa in Wellington by SUV: $75
  • Wētā Workshop Guided Transfers & Tour: $59
  • Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket + Transfer: $58
  • Private Large SUV Airport Transfers Wellington - Executive Travel: $58
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Airport (WLG) to Wellington Port: $26
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Port to Wellington Airport (WLG): $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Mount Bromo or Wellington?

Prices for flights to both Wellington 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
    Wellington $51

Typical Food Prices in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner
    $8.87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3 Hour Walking Food Tour: $126

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mount Bromo $7.88
    Wellington $16

Tours and Activities in Wellington

For Wellington, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Auckland: Wētā Workshop Unleashed Creative Classes Ticket: $38
  • Axe Throwing Lesson and Tournament: $33
  • Craft beers & car museum - Half Day Tour incl beverage samples: $99
  • Craft beers & car museums - Full Day Tour incl beverage samples: $168
  • Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour : $53
  • From Half-Day Foodie Tour of the Wairarapa: $110
  • From Kapiti Island Classic Guided Day Tour: $292
  • From Martinborough Winery Tour: $112
  • From Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Tour: $129
  • Full Day Guided Wellington Tour including Cable Car: $150
  • Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour: $177
  • Full Day Tour of Wellington: $177

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mount Bromo $4.43
    Wellington $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Wellington

Also in Wellington, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wellington Craft Brewery Half-Day Guided Tour with Tastings: $100
  • From Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour: $170
  • Exclusive Martinborough Wine Tour: $210
  • Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch: $395


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