A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Perth vs. Torquay for Beaches, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Perth or Torquay?

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

Perth

Perth is a relaxed, easy-going, and isolated city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Torquay

Torquay is a trendy, casual, and laid back surf town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Perth and Torquay: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Perth or Torquay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Torquay. Although Perth and Torquay are popular destinations, Torquay has more sights and attractions for tourists. Torquay is very popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Perth attracts visitors for its museums. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location. Torquay is famous for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. It is also well known for Bells Beach.

How is Perth different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Perth
Torquay

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Perth can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.


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

Perth
Torquay

Both Perth and Torquay 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 Torquay. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Perth or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Perth
Torquay

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

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 Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Perth or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Perth
Torquay

Perth and Torquay are terrific choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Perth is a very popular vacation 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.

The beaches in Torquay are among the best in the world. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.


Is Perth or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Perth
Torquay

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

Many visitors go to Torquay for the hiking trails. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Torquay?

Perth
Torquay

If you're looking to go shopping, Perth and Torquay 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.

Torquay offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Perth or Torquay Better for Families?

Perth
Torquay

Perth is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Perth is very family-friendly. 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.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.


Is Perth or Torquay Better for Couples?

Perth
Torquay

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

Torquay is a great surf town if you're traveling as a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

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 Torquay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Perth
Torquay

For backpackers, both Perth and Torquay 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 Torquay. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Is Perth or Torquay Better for Students?

Perth
Torquay

Perth is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Torquay 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.

Torquay is not popular with students.


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

Perth
Torquay

Perth and Torquay both offer nice 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.

Torquay has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Is Perth or Torquay a more walkable city?

Perth
Torquay

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

Torquay is very walkable. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

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 Torquay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Perth?

How long in Perth or Torquay?

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

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


  • How many days in Perth or Torquay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Perth 2-4 
    Torquay 2-3

One day in Perth or Torquay?

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.

In Torquay, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This surf town 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 Torquay?

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 Torquay. 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 Torquay?

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.

Torquay is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Torquay. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Perth or Torquay?

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 food and shopping around the trendy destination of Torquay. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Torquay or Perth?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Perth is $131, while the average daily cost in Torquay is $87. 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 Torquay in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Perth or Torquay? 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 Torquay


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
    Torquay $39

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 : $262
  • Rottnest Island Flight Transfer with Return Ferry: $218
  • One Way Flight Transfer to or from Rottnest Island: $163
  • Perth Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Perth city: $67
  • Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer: $58
  • 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 Airport(PER): $33
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth city hotels: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Perth or Torquay?

Prices for flights to both Torquay 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 $36
    Torquay $25

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: $68
  • American BBQ Food Tour: $78
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise with Beverages: $111
  • From Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner: $114
  • Perth Swan River Dinner Cruise: $114
  • Pinnacles Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Experience a Small Group Tour: $117
  • Pinnacle Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner: $127

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Perth $14
    Torquay $11

Tours and Activities in Perth

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

  • 1 Day Margaret River Sightseeing Tour from Perth: $133
  • 1 Hour Quad Bike Tours, only 30 minutes from Perth: $87
  • 1/2 day Swan Valley Wine Cheese & Chocolate Tour Inc Afternoon Cruise to Perth: $87
  • 2 Hour Whale-Watching Cruise : $44
  • 2 Hours Whale Watching Tour in Fremantle: $50
  • Adventure Rottnest Tour with Ferry & Adventure Cruise: $102
  • BEST OF FREMANTLE WALKING TOUR: History, Art and Culture: $39
  • Best of Fremantle 2-Hour Walking Tour: $30
  • Best of Rotto Self-Guided Tour with Bike and Lunch: $97
  • City Tour Perth & Fremantle & Swan River: $124
  • Cliffs and Caves Kayak Tour in Swan River: $59
  • Coffee, Culture, and Art Tour of Perth: $33

Tours and Activities in Torquay

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

  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $66
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $95
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $93
  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $52
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $86
  • Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $120
  • Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Perth $7.44
    Torquay $7.45

Sample the Local Flavors in Perth

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Perth:

  • Perth Bar Crawl: $13
  • Little Creatures Brewery Tours : $17
  • Swan Valley: Half-Day Wine Tour From Perth: $62
  • Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tasting with Transportation: $62
  • Swan Valley Boutique Wine Tour: Half-Day Small Group Experience: $64
  • Half Day Swan Valley Wine Tour: $64
  • Swan Valley Half Day Wine Tour from Perth: $66
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Wine Tour with Tastings - From Perth: $68
  • Swan Valley: Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $91
  • Small-Group Gin Distillery Tour in Perth: $91
  • From Swan Valley Winery & Brewery Day Tour With Lunch: $108
  • Swan River Kayaking Tour with Dining and Wine Tasting: $108


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

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


Which is Bigger, Perth or Torquay?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Perth and Torquay, 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 Torquay?

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 Torquay in the Summer?

Both Torquay and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Perth this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Torquay for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Perth is around the same temperature as Torquay. Typically, the summer temperatures in Perth in January average around 25°C (76°F), and Torquay averages at about 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Torquay. In January, Perth usually receives less rain than Torquay. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Perth 25°C (76°F) 
    Torquay 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Perth or Torquay in the Autumn?

Both Torquay and Perth during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Perth for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Torquay in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Perth is generally cooler than Torquay. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 19°C (67°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Perth usually gets less rain in April than Torquay. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Perth 19°C (67°F) 
    Torquay 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Perth or Torquay in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Torquay. Many visitors come to Perth in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Torquay for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Perth is cooler than Torquay in the winter. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Torquay fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Perth gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Perth usually receives more rain than Torquay. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Perth 13°C (55°F) 
    Torquay 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Perth or Torquay in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Perth as well as Torquay. Most visitors come to Perth for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Torquay because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Perth is cooler than Torquay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Perth in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Torquay averages at about 21°C (71°F).

Perth usually gets less rain in October than Torquay. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Perth 17°C (62°F) 
    Torquay 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Torquay and Perth

Perth Torquay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (76°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 25°C (77°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 23°C (73°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 19°C (67°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 201 mm (7.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 170 mm (6.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 13°C (56°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 15°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 19°C (67°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)