A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Perth vs. Melbourne for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Perth or Melbourne?

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

Perth

Perth is a sunny, friendly, and relaxed city. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Perth travel costs.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a progressive, livable, and friendly city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Melbourne travel costs.

Perth and Melbourne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Melbourne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Melbourne than Perth. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Melbourne is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Perth attracts visitors for its beaches. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location. Melbourne is famous for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. It is also well known for the Royal Botanic Gardens.

How is Perth different from Melbourne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Perth or Melbourne.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Melbourne can be an interesting and educational experience. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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

Melbourne is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Melbourne. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Perth or Melbourne Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Melbourne for the nightlife scene. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

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 Perth or Melbourne Better for Beaches?

Perth is very popular for the beach. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Melbourne?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

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 Perth or Melbourne Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Perth or Melbourne.

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.

Melbourne is a very kid-friendly city. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Perth or Melbourne Better for Couples?

Both Perth and Melbourne are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Perth is a nice destination for couples. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Melbourne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Perth or Melbourne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Perth and Melbourne 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 Melbourne. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Perth or Melbourne Better for Students?

Melbourne is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

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.

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

Melbourne 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 Melbourne. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

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

Is Perth or Melbourne a more walkable city?

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

Melbourne is very walkable. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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 Perth Worth Visiting? and Is Melbourne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Melbourne or Perth?

How long in Perth or Melbourne?

In either Perth or Melbourne, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Melbourne than Perth because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 2-5 days is enough time in Melbourne.

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

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

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

One day in Perth or Melbourne?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Perth. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Melbourne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city 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 Melbourne?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the easy-going destination of Perth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Melbourne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Melbourne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed city of Perth. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Melbourne is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Melbourne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Perth or Melbourne?

Perth is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly big city of Melbourne. Most people come for the beaches. 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 G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Sydney, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Perth or Melbourne?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Perth. When comparing the sizes of Perth and Melbourne, 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 Perth or Melbourne?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Perth or Melbourne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Melbourne. Most visitors come to Perth for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Perth is a little warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Perth in January average around 25°C (76°F), and Melbourne averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Melbourne this time of the year. In Perth, it's very sunny this time of the year. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during summer. Perth gets 331 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 271 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Perth usually receives less rain than Melbourne. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Perth or Melbourne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Perth as well as Melbourne. The autumn months attract visitors to Perth because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year.

In April, Perth is generally a little warmer than Melbourne. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 19°C (67°F), and Melbourne fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Perth this time of the year. In the autumn, Perth often gets more sunshine than Melbourne. Perth gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 170 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in April than Melbourne. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Melbourne in the Winter?

Both Melbourne and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Perth this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Melbourne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Perth is a little warmer than Melbourne in the winter. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Melbourne fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Perth usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during winter. Perth gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Perth. In July, Perth usually receives more rain than Melbourne. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Perth or Melbourne in the Spring?

Both Melbourne and Perth during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Perth for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Melbourne in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Perth is a little warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Perth in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Melbourne averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Melbourne, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Perth. In the spring, Perth often gets more sunshine than Melbourne. Perth gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 216 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Melbourne. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Melbourne and Perth