A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Perth vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Couples, Families, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Perth and Aoraki Mount Cook can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a isolated, sunny, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Perth travel costs.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a dramatic, breathtaking, and world renowned mountain. Many visitors also come to Aoraki Mount Cook because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Aoraki Mount Cook travel costs.

Perth and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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 nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Perth than Aoraki Mount Cook, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Perth is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Aoraki Mount Cook is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Aoraki Mount Cook is more touristy than Perth and is known for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand. Perth is well known for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location. Also, Perth is famous for the Swan Bell Tower.

How is Perth different from Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is great for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Perth. 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is a good destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Aoraki Mount Cook offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village, but if you're doing any hiking you should pack your own food.

Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Perth has a few options to choose from. 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.

People don't go to Aoraki Mount Cook for the nightlife. There's an upscale bar at the Hermitage Hotel, but otherwise very little to do at night.

Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Beaches?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.

Perth offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a beach destination.


Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is very popular for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Aoraki Mount Cook specifically for its hiking. There are beginner trails as well as world class routes that bring out expert climbers. As the highest peak in New Zealand, many people come here for the challenge, but if you're looking for a most simple experience, the hiking opportunities are still abundant.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Perth has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook More Beautiful?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Aoraki Mount Cook because of it's amazing beauty. As the highest peak in New Zealand, this is a stunningly beautiful destination with glaciers, pristine forests, and world class views.

Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of short walks that are perfect for little legs. Kids will also enjoy the boat rides on the lakes and the area's superb stargazing.

Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is very popular for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Aoraki Mount Cook has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the stunning glaciers, beautiful walks, and iconic views. Many couples take helicopter rides to fully experience the area. Stargazing and hiking is also high on the list of must-do romantic activities.

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 Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

For backpackers, both Perth and Aoraki Mount Cook are notable places to visit.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Aoraki Mount Cook. While many activities in the area are expensive, the hiking is world class and there are a few hostels and camping opportunities nearby.


Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Students?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Perth. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not popular with students.

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

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Perth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Aoraki Mount Cook. Having a car is essential unless you take a private tour that provides transportation.

Is Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Perth
Aoraki Mount Cook

Perth is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not very walkable. While there are many trails through the region, you really must have a car to access the trail heads and efficiently get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Perth Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Perth?

How long in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook. In our opinion, Perth has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Perth than Aoraki Mount Cook. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Perth than Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Perth.


  • How many days in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook? Ideal Length of Stay
    Perth 2-4 
    Aoraki Mount Cook 2-4

One day in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Perth, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

In Aoraki Mount Cook, many people enjoy the that this dramatic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This mountain offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With museums and nightlife around the sunny city of Perth, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aoraki Mount Cook. 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.

Five days in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly destination of Perth. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Aoraki Mount Cook. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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.


A week in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Perth is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find around the world renowned destination of Aoraki Mount Cook. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Aoraki Mount Cook or Perth?

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 Perth is $158, while the average daily cost in Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Perth and Aoraki Mount Cook in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Perth $75
    Aoraki Mount Cook $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Perth $150
    Aoraki Mount Cook $118
Compare Hotels in Perth and Aoraki Mount Cook

Looking for a hotel in Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook? 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 Perth


Hotels in Aoraki Mount Cook


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: Perth Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Perth $25
    Aoraki Mount Cook $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Perth

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

  • Ballooning in the Avon Valley plus Transfer from Perth, breakfast: $282
  • Rottnest Island Flight Transfer with Return Ferry: $222
  • Perth Airport (PER) to Perth city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $177
  • One Way Flight Transfer to or from Rottnest Island: $165
  • Perth city to Perth Airport (PER) - Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • Departure Transfer: Perth to Perth Airport PER by Business Car: $79
  • Private Transfer from Perth Airport(PER) to Fremantle Cruise Port: $74
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth Airport(PER): $74
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth city hotels: $74
  • Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer: $61
  • PER Airport to Perth City Centre Private Transfer: $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Perth or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Prices for flights to both Aoraki Mount Cook and Perth 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
    Perth $62
    Aoraki Mount Cook $46

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
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise: $99
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise: $101
  • From Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner: $122
  • Pinnacles Sunset Stargazing Dinner Experience Small Group Tour: $124
  • Pinnacles Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner: $149
  • Pinnacles Desert Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Tour: $167
  • The 10 Tastings of Perth With Locals: Private Food Tour : $174

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Perth $14
    Aoraki Mount Cook $23

Tours and Activities in Perth

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

  • 1 Hour Quad Bike Tours, only 30 minutes from Perth: $87
  • 2 Hour Whale-Watching Cruise from Hillarys Boat Harbour: $50
  • 2 Hours Culture and Street Art Tour in Fremantle: $44
  • 2 hour whale watching experience departing Hillarys Boat Harbour: $50
  • 6 Hours Pinnacles Express Tour : $128
  • Adventure Rottnest Tour with Ferry & Adventure Cruise: $110
  • Bespoke Perth City and Surrounds Day Tour: $229
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Canning River Half-Day Kayak Wildlife Tour: $52
  • City of Perth Tour: $134
  • City of Perth Tour: $132
  • Discover Perth Walking Tour: History, Art, Sights + More!: $46

Tours and Activities in Aoraki Mount Cook

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Aoraki Mount Cook.

  • 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour: $297
  • Day Tours from Mount Cook: $119
  • Gibbston Valley Wines - Cave Tour : $17
  • Guided Tour with Cheese & Wine Pairing: $21
  • Middlemarch to Queenstown Small-Group Tour: Scenic Journey: $119
  • Mt Cook & Tasman Glacier lookout Small Group Tour from Queenstown: $149
  • Mt Cook Small Group Scenic Day Tour from Queenstown: $149
  • Mt Cook Tour: Finish at Christchurch, Queenstown or Dunedin: $1,042
  • Mt Cook Tour: Finish at Queenstown, Christchurch or Dunedin: $1,040
  • Mt Cook to Christchurch One-Way Small Group Tour via Lake Tekapo: $107
  • Mt Cook to Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour (one-way): $98
  • Mt Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (One-Way): $107

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Perth $7.47
    Aoraki Mount Cook $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Perth

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Perth:

  • Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tasting with Transportation: $63
  • Swan Valley: Half-Day Wine Tour From Perth: $69
  • Swan Valley Half Day Wine Tour from Perth: $71
  • Swan Valley Wine Tour - Half Day Afternoon: $71
  • Swan Valley Half-Day Wine Tour - Small Group Experience: $71
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Wine Tour with Tastings - From Perth: $79
  • Swan Valley: Out for the Afternoon Wine Tasting with Lunch: $83
  • Swan Valley: Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $99
  • Swan Valley Wine Tour - Full Day: $100
  • Small-Group Bickley Valley Wine Tour: $106
  • Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting: $109
  • From Swan Valley Winery & Brewery Day Tour With Lunch: $109

Sample the Local Flavors in Aoraki Mount Cook

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aoraki Mount Cook:

  • Kinross Winery: Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience: $15
  • Kinross Winery: Wild Irishman Wine Tasting Experience: $45


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

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