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

Should you visit Perth or Wollongong?

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

Perth

Perth is a sunny, friendly, and relaxed city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a trendy, vibrant, and student-friendly coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Perth and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Wollongong?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Wollongong than Perth. While Perth is larger than Wollongong, Wollongong has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Wollongong is better known for its food, nightlife, hiking, and big city activities, while Perth is more popular for its beaches. Perth is well known for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location. Wollongong is well known for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. Also, Wollongong is famous for Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Perth different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Wollongong can be an interesting and educational experience. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

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

Wollongong 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 Wollongong. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

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 Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Wollongong for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

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 Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Perth is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its beaches.

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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Is Perth or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Wollongong?

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

Wollongong offers some nice shopping areas. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Perth or Wollongong Better for Families?

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

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.

Wollongong is a very kid-friendly city. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Is Perth or Wollongong Better for Couples?

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

Wollongong is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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 Wollongong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Perth and Wollongong 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 Wollongong. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Perth or Wollongong Better for Students?

For students, both Perth and Wollongong are notable 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.

Wollongong is a good city to visit for students. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

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

Wollongong 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 Wollongong. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

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

Is Perth or Wollongong a more walkable city?

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

Wollongong is very walkable. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

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 Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Perth?

How long in Perth or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Perth or Wollongong. In our opinion, Wollongong has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Wollongong than Perth. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Perth or Wollongong?

With museums and nightlife around the sunny 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 Wollongong, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this trendy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal 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 Wollongong?

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 Wollongong. 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 Wollongong?

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.

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

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 vibrant destination of Wollongong. 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, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Perth and Wollongong, we can see that Perth is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Perth or Wollongong?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Wollongong. When comparing the sizes of Perth and Wollongong, 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 Wollongong?

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 Wollongong in the Summer?

Both Wollongong and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Perth for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Perth is generally around the same temperature as Wollongong. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 25°C (76°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Perth. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Wollongong during summer. Perth gets 331 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Perth usually receives less rain than Wollongong. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Perth or Wollongong in the Autumn?

Both Wollongong and Perth during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Perth because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year.

Perth is around the same temperature as Wollongong in the autumn. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 19°C (67°F) in April, and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Perth. In the autumn, Perth often gets more sunshine than Wollongong. Perth gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in April than Wollongong. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Wollongong in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Wollongong. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Perth this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wollongong for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Perth is a little warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the winter temperatures in Perth in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Wollongong averages at about 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. Perth usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during winter. Perth gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

Perth gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Perth usually receives more rain than Wollongong. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Perth or Wollongong in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Perth as well as Wollongong. Many travelers come to Perth for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Wollongong in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In October, Perth is generally around the same temperature as Wollongong. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 17°C (62°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Perth this time of the year. In the spring, Perth often gets more sunshine than Wollongong. Perth gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in October than Wollongong. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Perth