A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Alice Springs for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Phuket or Alice Springs?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Alice Springs, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a energetic, party-hard, and stunning resort island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a laid back, outdoorsy, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Phuket and Alice Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Alice Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Phuket. Although Phuket and Alice Springs are both popular with visitors, Phuket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Phuket is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Alice Springs is known for its museums, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Alice Springs and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. It is also home to The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Alice Springs is popular for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

How is Phuket different from Alice Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Alice Springs and Phuket. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phuket or Alice Springs?

Alice Springs is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Alice Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Alice Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Phuket and Alice Springs can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Phuket. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Alice Springs is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

People head to Phuket just to party. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Resorts?

Phuket is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

Phuket is a world class resort vacation destination. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a great resort island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Alice Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Beaches?

Phuket is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Phuket is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Alice Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Hiking?

Alice Springs is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Alice Springs draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Alice Springs?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Alice Springs and Phuket.

Phuket offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Alice Springs has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Families?

Alice Springs is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Alice Springs is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Couples?

Phuket and Alice Springs are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Phuket frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Alice Springs is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alice Springs is a great destination for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Alice Springs is a great town to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Phuket is a resort island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Alice Springs is not known for its public transit.

While Phuket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Phuket or Alice Springs a more walkable city?

Phuket and Alice Springs both are good when exploring on foot.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

Alice Springs is a somewhat walkable resort island. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alice Springs or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Alice Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Phuket or Alice Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Phuket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alice Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alice Springs than Phuket 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 Alice Springs.

One day in Phuket or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the activity-filled destination of Phuket. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Alice Springs might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Alice Springs?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Alice Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Phuket or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the activity-filled destination of Phuket. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the resort island of Phuket. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Alice Springs is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Phuket and Alice Springs, we can see that Phuket 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. Even though Phuket is in Asia and Alice Springs is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Alice Springs?

Phuket has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Alice Springs. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Alice Springs, 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.