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

Should you visit Perth or Wellington?

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 Wellington 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.

Wellington

Wellington is a funky, compact, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Perth and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Wellington?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Wellington than Perth. While Perth is larger than Wellington, Wellington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Wellington is very popular for its food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Perth attracts visitors for its museums and beaches. Wellington is more touristy than Perth and is known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also well known for Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Perth is famous for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Perth different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Perth is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Perth offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

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

Wellington 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 Wellington. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

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 Wellington Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Wellington for the nightlife scene. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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 Wellington Better for Beaches?

Perth is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Wellington 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.

Wellington is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Is Perth or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Wellington is very good for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Wellington?

Wellington 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 Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

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 Wellington Better for Families?

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

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.

Wellington is a very kid-friendly city. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Is Perth or Wellington Better for Couples?

Both Perth and Wellington 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.

Wellington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Is Perth or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wellington is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Wellington is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. 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.

Is Perth or Wellington Better for Students?

For students, both Perth and Wellington are nice places to visit.

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.

Wellington is a good city to visit for students. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

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

Wellington 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 Wellington. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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

Is Perth or Wellington a more walkable city?

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

Wellington is very walkable. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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 Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Perth?

How long in Perth or Wellington?

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

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

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

One day in Perth or Wellington?

With museums and nightlife around the relaxed city of Perth, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Wellington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this compact destination offers. 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 Wellington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Perth, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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

Perth, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wellington is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Wellington. 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 Wellington?

Perth is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the laid-back destination of Wellington. 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 Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Perth or Wellington?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wellington. When comparing the sizes of Perth and Wellington, 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 Wellington?

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 Wellington in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Perth is a little warmer than Wellington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Perth in January average around 25°C (76°F), and Wellington averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wellington this time of the year. In Perth, it's very sunny this time of the year. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Wellington during summer. Perth gets 331 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Perth usually receives less rain than Wellington. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Perth or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Perth as well as Wellington. The autumn months attract visitors to Perth because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

In April, Perth is generally a little warmer than Wellington. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 19°C (67°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°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 Wellington. Perth gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 163 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in April than Wellington. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Wellington in the Winter?

Both Wellington 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 Wellington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Perth is a little warmer than Wellington in the winter. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Wellington fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Perth usually receives more sunshine than Wellington during winter. Perth gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. It's quite rainy in Perth. In July, Perth usually receives more rain than Wellington. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Perth or Wellington in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Perth is a little warmer than Wellington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Perth in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Wellington averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Perth. In the spring, Perth often gets more sunshine than Wellington. Perth gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 180 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in October than Wellington. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wellington and Perth