A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nara vs. Perth for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nara or Perth?

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

Should I visit Nara or Perth? 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.

Nara

Nara is a tranquil, natural, and historic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Perth

Perth is a sunny, friendly, and relaxed city. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Nara and Perth: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Nara or Perth?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Nara than Perth. While Perth is larger than Nara, Nara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nara is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Perth attracts visitors for its beaches. Nara is famous for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer. It is also well known for Nara Park. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Nara different from Perth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nara or Perth?

Nara
Perth

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Nara and Perth.

Nara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

Many visitors head to Perth specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.


Is the Food Better in Nara or Perth? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nara
Perth

Both Nara and Perth offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nara. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Perth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Is Nara or Perth Better for Nightlife?

Nara
Perth

Nara is great for nightlife. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Nara for the nightlife scene. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

Is Nara or Perth Better for Beaches?

Nara
Perth

Perth is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Nara is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Perth. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Nara is not a beach destination.


Is Nara or Perth Better for its Old Town?

Nara
Perth

Nara is very good for its historic old town. However, Perth does not have a historic old town.

Nara is a good destination for visiting its old town. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Perth does not have a historic old town.

Is Nara or Perth Better for Hiking?

Nara
Perth

Nara is great for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nara for the hiking trails. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nara or Perth?

Nara
Perth

Nara is great for shopping. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nara. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Perth offers some nice shopping areas. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.


Is Nara or Perth Better for Families?

Nara
Perth

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nara or Perth.

Nara is a very kid-friendly city. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Perth. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Is Nara or Perth Better for Couples?

Nara
Perth

Nara is great for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Nara is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Is Nara or Perth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nara
Perth

Both Nara and Perth are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nara. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

Perth is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.


Is Nara or Perth Better for Students?

Nara
Perth

Perth is a popular place for students. However, Nara is not popular with students.

Perth is a good city to visit for students. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Nara is not popular with students.

Is Nara or Perth Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nara
Perth

Nara is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nara. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

Perth has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Is Nara or Perth a more walkable city?

Nara
Perth

Nara is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Nara is very walkable. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Nara Worth Visiting? and Is Perth Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Perth or Nara?

How long in Nara or Perth?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nara than Perth 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 Nara.


  • How many days in Nara or Perth? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nara 1-2 
    Perth 2-4

One day in Nara or Perth?

In Nara, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Perth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Nara or Perth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nara. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Perth is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nara or Perth?

Nara is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Nara. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Perth. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Nara or Perth?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional destination of Nara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The easy-going city of Perth offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Perth or Nara?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nara is $86, while the average daily cost in Perth is $130. 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 Nara and Perth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nara $52
    Perth $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nara $104
    Perth $150
Compare Hotels in Nara and Perth

Looking for a hotel in Nara or Perth? 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 Nara


Hotels in Perth


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: Nara Hotel Prices and Perth Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nara $5.83
    Perth $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nara

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nara:

  • Kansai Airport (KIX):Private One-Way Transfer to/from Nara: $240

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Perth

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

  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth Airport(PER): $33
  • Perth city to Perth Airport (PER) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Private Transfer from Perth City Hotels to Fremantle Cruise Port : $33
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth city hotels: $33
  • Perth Departure Transfer by Private Chauffeur: Perth City Center to Airport: $50
  • Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer: $59
  • Perth Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Perth city: $67
  • Departure Private Transfer: Perth City to Perth Airport PER in Business Car: $76
  • Departure Private Transfer: Perth City to Perth Airport PER in Luxury Van: $103
  • One Way Flight Transfer to or from Rottnest Island: $163
  • Rottnest Island Flight Transfer with Return Ferry: $219

Is it cheaper to fly into Nara or Perth?

Prices for flights to both Perth and Nara 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
    Nara $28
    Perth $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nara

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nara.

  • Eel Fishing and Cooking Experience in Kyoto: $72
  • Cooking class, learning how to make authentic sushi: $111
  • Full Day Nara E bike Tour and Osaka History Food Tour: $189

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Perth

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

  • Hands on Cooking Class or Cooking Workshop Experience: $69
  • American BBQ Food Tour: $78
  • Half-Day Low and Slow BBQ Food Tour in Perth: $79
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise with Beverages: $111
  • Perth Swan River Dinner Cruise: $112
  • From Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner: $114
  • Pinnacles Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Experience a Small Group Tour: $116
  • Pinnacle Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner: $140
  • The 10 Tastings of Perth With Locals: Private Food Tour : $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nara $7.81
    Perth $14

Tours and Activities in Nara

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Nara are as follows:

  • 1 Day Walking Tour in Nara Palace Deer and Inkstick: $166
  • 1-Day Walking Tour in Palace, Deer and Inkstick: $147
  • All must-sees in 3 hours - Nara Park Classic Tour! From JR Nara!: $42
  • EBike Eco Chic Tour Explore 1300 Year Old Primeval Forest: $88
  • Eigo Tour - Walk in Nara City: $65
  • Experience Authentic Sushi making in Nara: $115
  • Guided Tour of Todai ji and Nara Park: $83
  • Guided Uji Anime Walking Tour: $31
  • Half-Day Private Guided Tour : Nara Imperial Palace: $95
  • Half-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara City: $95
  • Immersive Experience Tour in Totsukawa village: $3,202
  • Katsuragi: Unique Sumo Experience: $195

Tours and Activities in Perth

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Perth.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $3.74
  • Perth Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • City Exploration Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Perth Bell Tower Entry Ticket and Bell Chiming Experience: $12
  • Skip the Line: Perth Video Game Console Museum Ticket: $12
  • Perth Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Scitech Discovery Centre All Day Entry Ticket: $16
  • The Perth Mint Gold Tour: $16
  • Fabulous Fremantle Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Wonderful Perth Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Female trailblazers: self-guided women's history tour of Perth: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nara $11
    Perth $7.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Perth

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Perth:

  • Little Creatures Brewery Tours : $17
  • Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tasting with Transportation: $62
  • Swan Valley: Half-Day Wine Tour From Perth: $62
  • Swan Valley Boutique Wine Tour: Half-Day Small Group Experience: $63
  • Half Day Swan Valley Wine Tour: $63
  • Swan Valley Half Day Wine Tour from Perth: $66
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Wine Tour with Tastings - From Perth: $69
  • Swan Valley: Out for the Afternoon Wine Tasting with Lunch: $75
  • Small-Group Gin Distillery Tour in Perth: $89
  • Swan Valley: Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $91
  • Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting: $108
  • From Swan Valley Winery & Brewery Day Tour With Lunch: $108


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nara or Perth?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nara. When comparing the sizes of Nara and Perth, 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 Nara or Perth?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Perth is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Nara has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Nara or Perth in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nara as well as Perth. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nara this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Perth for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nara is generally around the same temperature as Perthin January. Daily temperatures in Nara average around 27°C (80°F), and Perth fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Perth. In the summer, Nara often gets less sunshine than Perthin January. Nara gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Perth receives 331 hours of full sun.

Nara receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nara usually gets more rain in July than Perthin January. Nara gets 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain, while Perth receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nara 27°C (80°F) 
    Perth 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Nara or Perth in the Autumn?

Both Perth and Nara are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nara for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Perth in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Nara is cooler than Perth in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Perth fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Perth. Nara usually receives less sunshine than Perth during autumn. Nara gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Perth receives 219 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nara. In October, Nara usually receives more rain than Perthin April. Nara gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Perth receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nara 17°C (63°F) 
    Perth 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Nara or Perth in the Winter?

Both Perth and Nara during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nara in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Perth for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nara can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nara is much colder than Perth. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nara in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Perth averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

In the winter, Nara often gets less sunshine than Perthin July. Nara gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Perth receives 166 hours of full sun.

Perth gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nara usually gets less rain in January than Perthin July. Nara gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Perth receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nara 4°C (40°F) 
    Perth 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Nara or Perth in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nara and Perth. Most visitors come to Nara for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Perth because of the beaches.

In April, Nara is generally cooler than Perthin October. Daily temperatures in Nara average around 14°C (57°F), and Perth fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Perth this time of the year. Nara usually receives less sunshine than Perth during spring. Nara gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Perth receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nara usually receives more rain than Perthin October. Nara gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Perth receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nara 14°C (57°F) 
    Perth 17°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Perth and Nara

Nara Perth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 25°C (76°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 127 mm (5 in) 19°C (67°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 128 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 214 mm (8.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 186 mm (7.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)