A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Rockhampton vs. Canberra for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Rockhampton or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Rockhampton or Canberra? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a charming, cultural, and natural town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Rockhampton and Canberra: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Rockhampton or Canberra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Canberra than Rockhampton, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Canberra is more popular for its big city activities, while Rockhampton is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Rockhampton is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. It is also home to the Australian War Memorial.

How is Rockhampton different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rockhampton or Canberra?

Rockhampton
Canberra

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Canberra and Rockhampton.

Rockhampton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.


Is the Food Better in Rockhampton or Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Foodies will find both Rockhampton and Canberra both to be high quality destinations.

Rockhampton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Canberra makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Both Rockhampton and Canberra have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rockhampton. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Beaches?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Rockhampton is a popular place for the beache. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Rockhampton is a good option for a beach vacation. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Canberra is not a beach destination.


Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Rockhampton is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Rockhampton. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rockhampton or Canberra?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Rockhampton and Canberra.

Rockhampton has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

Canberra is a great destination for shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Families?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Rockhampton or Canberra.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rockhampton. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

Canberra is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.


Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Couples?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Rockhampton is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Rockhampton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

Canberra is a good town for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Rockhampton is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Rockhampton. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Students?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Canberra is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Rockhampton is popular with students. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.


Is Rockhampton or Canberra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Canberra is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Rockhampton is lacking in options for its public transit.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Public transit is generally limited in Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Rockhampton or Canberra a more walkable city?

Rockhampton
Canberra

Rockhampton and Canberra are good when it comes to walkability.

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.

Canberra is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

For even more information, also check out Is Rockhampton Worth Visiting? and Is Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Rockhampton?

How long in Rockhampton or Canberra?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rockhampton than Canberra 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 Rockhampton.


  • How many days in Rockhampton or Canberra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rockhampton 2-4 
    Canberra 2-3

One day in Rockhampton or Canberra?

The town of Rockhampton offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Canberra. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Rockhampton or Canberra?

Rockhampton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rockhampton, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse destination of Canberra. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Rockhampton or Canberra?

Rockhampton is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The cultural city of Canberra offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Rockhampton or Canberra?

Rockhampton is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Canberra. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Contiki Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Canberra or Rockhampton?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Rockhampton is $170, while the average daily cost in Canberra is $133. 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 Rockhampton and Canberra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rockhampton $101
    Canberra $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rockhampton $202
    Canberra $164
Compare Hotels in Rockhampton and Canberra

Looking for a hotel in Rockhampton or Canberra? 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 Rockhampton


Hotels in Canberra


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: Rockhampton Hotel Prices and Canberra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rockhampton $19
    Canberra $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

Also for Canberra, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $83
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $83
  • Osaka Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Downtown: $90
  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $117
  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Rockhampton or Canberra?

Prices for flights to both Canberra and Rockhampton 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
    Rockhampton $50
    Canberra $35

Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $16

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rockhampton $40
    Canberra $17

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $91
  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Canberra Best of Wildlife Tour: $88
  • Canberra Floriade Tour: $120
  • Canberra Small Group Winery Tour: $151
  • Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tasting Tour: $111
  • City Highlights Day Tour with Entrance Fees: $117
  • Capital Christmas: Private Festive Tour in Canberra: $652
  • Discover Canberra’s Heritage: A Full-Day Private Tour: $877
  • Discover Pearls of Canberra - Private Walking Tour: $133

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rockhampton $13
    Canberra $16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    $9.12

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

Also in Canberra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $98
  • Canberra Brewery Winery and Distillery Tour: $114
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $121
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $125
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $147
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $148
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $164


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

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


Which is Bigger, Rockhampton or Canberra?

Canberra has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Rockhampton. When comparing the sizes of Rockhampton and Canberra, 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 Rockhampton or Canberra?

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 Rockhampton or Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra and Rockhampton are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Rockhampton because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

In January, Rockhampton is generally a little warmer than Canberra. Daily temperatures in Rockhampton average around 27°C (81°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite rainy in Rockhampton. In January, Rockhampton usually receives more rain than Canberra. Rockhampton gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Rockhampton 27°C (81°F) 
    Canberra 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Rockhampton or Canberra in the Autumn?

Both Canberra and Rockhampton during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Rockhampton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Rockhampton is a little warmer than Canberra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rockhampton averages around 23°C (74°F) in April, and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Canberra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Rockhampton usually gets less rain in April than Canberra. Rockhampton gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F) 
    Canberra 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Rockhampton or Canberra in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rockhampton and Canberra. Many travelers come to Rockhampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Canberra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Rockhampton is a little warmer than Canberra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rockhampton in July average around 16°C (61°F), and Canberra averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In July, Rockhampton usually receives less rain than Canberra. Rockhampton gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Rockhampton 16°C (61°F) 
    Canberra 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Rockhampton or Canberra in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rockhampton as well as Canberra. Many visitors come to Rockhampton in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months.

In October, Rockhampton is generally much warmer than Canberra. Daily temperatures in Rockhampton average around 23°C (74°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Rockhampton usually gets less rain in October than Canberra. Rockhampton gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F) 
    Canberra 15°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Canberra and Rockhampton

Rockhampton Canberra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 27°C (80°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 20°C (68°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 26°C (78°F) 109 mm (4.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Apr 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 23°C (74°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 26°C (78°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 125 mm (4.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)