A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Perth vs. Cromwell for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Perth or Cromwell?

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 Cromwell can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a easy-going, isolated, and sunny city. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Perth travel costs.

Cromwell

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

Perth and Cromwell: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Perth or Cromwell?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cromwell. Although Perth and Cromwell are popular destinations, Cromwell has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cromwell is very popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Perth attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and beaches. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location. Cromwell is famous for its fruit farms, orchards, and vineyards. It is also well known for the big fruit.

How is Perth different from Cromwell?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Perth or Cromwell Better for Skiing?

Perth
Cromwell

Cromwell is very good for skiing. However, Perth is not a skiing destination.

Cromwell is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The town isn't far from several ski fields, so it attracts winter sports enthusiasts when the weather gets cold.

Perth is not a skiing destination.


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

Perth
Cromwell

Perth is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cromwell. There are some interesting historical activities around town like Goldfields Mining Centre.

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

Perth
Cromwell

Both Perth and Cromwell offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Perth. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cromwell. There are charming cafes and bakeries where you can grab a light meal or snack. There are also quaint restaurants and wineries with nice meals available.

Is Perth or Cromwell Better for Nightlife?

Perth
Cromwell

The vibe at night is nice in both Perth and Cromwell.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cromwell. There are a few breweries and a number of wineries around town where you can have a relaxing night out.


Is Perth or Cromwell Better for Beaches?

Perth
Cromwell

Perth is very popular for the beach. However, Cromwell is not a beach destination.

Perth is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Cromwell is not a beach destination.

Is Perth or Cromwell Better for Hiking?

Perth
Cromwell

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

Many visitors go to Cromwell for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful walks in the area that take you through diverse landscapes and to impressive views.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Cromwell?

Perth
Cromwell

If you're looking to go shopping, Perth and Cromwell both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Perth. 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.

Cromwell offers some nice shopping areas. There's a farmers market in town as well as several local vendors and cute shops.


Is Perth or Cromwell Better for Families?

Perth
Cromwell

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Perth or Cromwell.

Perth is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Cromwell is a very kid-friendly city. The lakefront setting means that there are water activities during the warmer months. There are also ski fields nearby for the winter months. Biking and walking are also popular in the area.

Is Perth or Cromwell Better for Couples?

Perth
Cromwell

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

Cromwell is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Cycling, walking, kayaking, and skiing all make this a romantic a charming town to visit as a couple. There are also wineries in the area with beautiful vineyards.

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 Cromwell Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Perth
Cromwell

For backpackers, both Perth and Cromwell are nice 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 Cromwell. There are a handful of great hostels in the area and plenty of things to keep backpackers entertained.


Is Perth or Cromwell Better for Students?

Perth
Cromwell

Perth is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Cromwell 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.

Cromwell is not popular with students.

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

Perth
Cromwell

Perth is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Cromwell is not known 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 generally limited in Cromwell. Public transit around town is limited to a couple of buses.

Is Perth or Cromwell a more walkable city?

Perth
Cromwell

Perth and Cromwell are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Cromwell is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Cromwell or Perth?

How long in Perth or Cromwell?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Perth or Cromwell to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Perth than Cromwell because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cromwell.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Perth than Cromwell 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 Cromwell? Ideal Length of Stay
    Perth 2-4 
    Cromwell 1-2

One day in Perth or Cromwell?

The city of Perth offers food and shopping. 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.

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

A weekend in Perth or Cromwell?

Perth 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 Perth, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cromwell. 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 Cromwell?

Perth is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cromwell is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cromwell. 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 Cromwell?

Perth is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

You'll find museums and skiing around the cultural destination of Cromwell. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Cromwell 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 Cromwell is $100. 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 Cromwell in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Perth $75
    Cromwell $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Perth $150
    Cromwell $78
Compare Hotels in Perth and Cromwell

Looking for a hotel in Perth or Cromwell? 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 Cromwell


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 and Cromwell Hotel Prices.

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

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 Cromwell?

Prices for flights to both Cromwell 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
    Cromwell $45

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
    Cromwell $16

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 Cromwell

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

  • Queenstown to Middlemarch Small-Group Guided Tour (One-Way): $92
  • Queenstown: Mount Cook Premium Guided Day Tour: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Perth $7.47
    Cromwell $9.10

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


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

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