A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Newcastle for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Phuket or Newcastle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Newcastle, 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 party-hard, stunning, and activity-filled resort island. Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Phuket travel costs.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a vibrant, high energy, and trendy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Newcastle travel costs.

Phuket and Newcastle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Newcastle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newcastle than Phuket, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Newcastle is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Phuket is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Newcastle and is known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Newcastle is popular for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. It is also home to the Bathers Way.

How is Phuket different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Newcastle is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newcastle can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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."

Newcastle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Phuket is a must-see party destination. 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.

Newcastle has a large number of nightlife venues. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Resorts?

Phuket is terrific for its resorts. However, Newcastle is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Phuket is a great choice. 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.

Newcastle is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newcastle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Phuket. 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.

Newcastle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Phuket is terrific for the beach. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Phuket. 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.

Newcastle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Newcastle is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Newcastle has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Newcastle?

Newcastle is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Newcastle is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Is Phuket or Newcastle More Beautiful?

Phuket is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Families?

Phuket and Newcastle are both good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Phuket. 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.

Newcastle offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Phuket is a well-known place for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Phuket is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Newcastle is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

Is Phuket or Newcastle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Phuket and Newcastle are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Phuket. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. While it gets its share of backpackers, many visitors complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Newcastle is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Phuket and Newcastle.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

While Newcastle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Is Phuket or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Phuket and Newcastle 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.

Newcastle is a somewhat walkable resort island. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Phuket or Newcastle. 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 Newcastle.

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

Couples should spend more time in Phuket than Newcastle. 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.

One day in Phuket or Newcastle?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Phuket. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Newcastle. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Newcastle?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the activity-filled destination of Phuket. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Newcastle is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Newcastle?

You'll find nightlife and food around the party-hard resort island of Phuket. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Newcastle?

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phuket, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the trendy destination of Newcastle. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Phuket and Newcastle, we can see that Phuket is more expensive. And not only is Newcastle much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Phuket is in Asia and Newcastle is in Pacific, 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 Newcastle would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newcastle 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 Phuket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phuket than you might in Newcastle.

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Newcastle?

Newcastle has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Newcastle, 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 Phuket or Newcastle?

Newcastle has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Phuket experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Newcastle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Newcastle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, most visitors come to Newcastle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Phuket is a little warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phuket in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Newcastle averages at about 22°C (72°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newcastle this time of the year. In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives less sunshine than Newcastle during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

Newcastle receives a lot of rain in the summer. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Newcastlein January. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phuket or Newcastle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Newcastle. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Phuket is generally a little warmer than Newcastlein April. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 27°C (81°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In the autumn, Phuket often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein April. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 199 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Newcastlein April. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.

Should I visit Phuket or Newcastle in the Winter?

Both Newcastle and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle this time of year.

Phuket is much warmer than Newcastle in the winter. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Newcastle fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Newcastle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 206 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Newcastlein July. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Phuket is December to March.

Should I visit Phuket or Newcastle in the Spring?

Both Newcastle and Phuket during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Newcastle for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Phuket is much warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phuket in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Newcastle averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

In Newcastle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the spring, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newcastlein October. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 237 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in April than Newcastlein October. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Phuket