A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Perth vs. Seattle for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Perth or Seattle?

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

Perth

Perth is a relaxed, easy-going, and isolated city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Perth and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Seattle?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Seattle than Perth. While Perth is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Perth is more popular for its beaches. Seattle is more touristy than Perth and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Perth is well known for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Perth different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Perth or Seattle.

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 Seattle can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Perth or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is very good for theatre. However, Perth is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Perth is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle 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 Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Seattle for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is great for live music. However, Perth is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle draws a good crowd. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Perth is not a live music destination.

Is Perth or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Perth is renowned for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Perth are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Perth or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Seattle?

If you're looking to go shopping, Perth and Seattle both offer plenty of notable 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.

Seattle offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Perth or Seattle Better for Families?

Perth is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Perth is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Perth or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Perth and Seattle are notable 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.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Perth or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Perth and Seattle 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 Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Perth or Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is very popular with students. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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 Seattle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Perth and Seattle both offer notable public transit to get you around.

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.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Perth or Seattle a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Perth?

How long in Perth or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Perth and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Perth than in Seattle. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

One day in Perth or Seattle?

In Perth, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

In Perth, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Perth has to offer.

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

Perth is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Perth. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Perth. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find shopping and museums around the progressive big city of Seattle. 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 Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Perth and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. And not only is Perth much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Perth is in Pacific and Seattle is in North America, 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 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Perth or Seattle?

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

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 Seattle has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Perth or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Perth during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Perth this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Perth is generally a little warmer than Seattlein July. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 25°C (76°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Perth. In the summer, Perth often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seattlein July. Perth gets 331 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in January than Seattlein July. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Seattle. Many travelers come to Perth for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Perth is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 19°C (67°F) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C)in October.

In Perth, it's very sunny this time of the year. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Perth gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Perth usually receives less rain than Seattlein October. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Perth or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Perth as well as Seattle. Many visitors come to Perth in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Perth is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Perth in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C)in January.

In the winter, Perth often gets more sunshine than Seattlein January. Perth gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Perth receives a lot of rain in the winter. Perth usually gets more rain in July than Seattlein January. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Perth for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In October, Perth is generally much warmer than Seattlein April. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 17°C (62°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Perth. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during spring. Perth gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Perth usually receives around the same amount of rain as Seattlein April. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Perth