A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Torquay vs. Hobart for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Torquay or Hobart?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Torquay or Hobart, 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.

Torquay

Torquay is a thriving, outdoorsy, and trendy surf town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Hobart

Hobart is a fascinating, quaint, and historical city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Torquay and Hobart: 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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Torquay or Hobart?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Torquay than Hobart, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Torquay is better known for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hobart is more popular for its museums, food, and shopping. Hobart is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails. Torquay is well known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. Also, Torquay is famous for Bells Beach.

How is Torquay different from Hobart?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Torquay or Hobart?

Torquay
Hobart

Hobart is great for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hobart can be an interesting and educational experience. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.


Is the Food Better in Torquay or Hobart? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Torquay
Hobart

Hobart is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hobart has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Torquay or Hobart Better for Nightlife?

Torquay
Hobart

The vibe at night is notable in both Torquay and Hobart.

If you're looking for night time activities Torquay has a few options to choose from. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hobart. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

Is Torquay or Hobart Better for Beaches?

Torquay
Hobart

Torquay is renowned for the beache. However, Hobart is not a beach destination.

Torquay is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Hobart is not a beach destination.


Is Torquay or Hobart Better for Hiking?

Torquay
Hobart

Torquay and Hobart are both places where visitors can find high quality hiking trails.

Many visitors go to Torquay for the hiking trails. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Hobart is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Hobart?

Torquay
Hobart

Hobart is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its shopping areas.

Hobart is well-known for its shopping. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Torquay or Hobart Better for Families?

Torquay
Hobart

Hobart is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hobart is very family-friendly. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.


Is Torquay or Hobart Better for Couples?

Torquay
Hobart

Torquay and Hobart are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Torquay is a great surf town if you're traveling as a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Hobart is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.

Is Torquay or Hobart Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Torquay
Hobart

For backpackers, both Torquay and Hobart are notable places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Torquay. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Hobart is a good surf town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

Is Torquay or Hobart Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Torquay
Hobart

Torquay and Hobart both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Torquay offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Hobart has a few public transit options. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.


Is Torquay or Hobart a more walkable city?

Torquay
Hobart

Torquay and Hobart are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Torquay is a very walkable surf town. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

Hobart is a very walkable destination. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Torquay Worth Visiting? and Is Hobart Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hobart or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Hobart?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Torquay and Hobart. In our opinion, Hobart has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hobart than Torquay. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hobart than Torquay 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 Hobart.


  • How many days in Torquay or Hobart? Ideal Length of Stay
    Torquay 2-3 
    Hobart 2-3

One day in Torquay or Hobart?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Torquay. 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.

In Hobart, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Torquay or Hobart?

Torquay is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, 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.

In Hobart, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hobart has to offer.


Five days in Torquay or Hobart?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. Don't miss the beaches, 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.

Hobart is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Torquay or Hobart?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the casual destination of Torquay. This surf 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hobart. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hobart. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Hobart or Torquay?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Torquay is $86, while the average daily cost in Hobart is $134. 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 Torquay and Hobart in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Torquay $39
    Hobart $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Torquay $78
    Hobart $152
Compare Hotels in Torquay and Hobart

Looking for a hotel in Torquay or Hobart? 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 Torquay


Hotels in Hobart


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: Hobart Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Torquay $39
    Hobart $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hobart

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

  • Port Arthur Return Transfer, mimimum 4 passengers : $216
  • Private Transfer from Hobart City Hotels to Arthur Cruise Port : $50
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Airport (HBA) to Arthur Cruise Port: $50
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Cruise Port to Hobart Airport (HBA): $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Airport (HBA) to Hobart Cruise Port: $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart Cruise Port to Hobart city hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from Hobart City Hotels to Hobart Cruise Port: $29
  • Grand Cayman Shared Airport Transfer: $22

Is it cheaper to fly into Torquay or Hobart?

Prices for flights to both Hobart and Torquay 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
    Torquay $25
    Hobart $28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Torquay $11
    Hobart $23

Tours and Activities in Torquay

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Torquay.

  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $73
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $94
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $92
  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $52
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $92
  • Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $119
  • Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $82

Tours and Activities in Hobart

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hobart.

  • Grand Hobart with Richmond Village Tour: $95
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Walking Tour of Hobart: $25
  • 3 day Tasmanian highlights tour – Hobart, Port Arthur and Bruny Island: $206
  • 48 Hour Hobart City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: $32
  • Art and History Trail Walking Tour in Tasmania: $25
  • Bonorong Wildlife Park and Richmond Afternoon Tour from Hobart: $76
  • Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Half-Day Tour from Hobart: $76
  • Bruny Island Food, Sightseeing, Guided Lighthouse Tour & Lunch : $170
  • Bruny Island Traveller - Gourmet Tasting and Sightseeing Day Trip from Hobart: $173
  • Cruise Ship Wine Shore Excursion: $162
  • Day Tour in Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Richmond: $117
  • Derwent River Historic Harbour Cruise From Hobart: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Torquay $7.42
    Hobart $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Hobart

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

  • Hobart Distillery Tour with Spirits Tastings: $45
  • Tasmanian Premium Wine Tour with Tasmanian Cheese Platter: $134
  • Signature Wine Tour - Hobart and SE Tasmania: $142
  • Signature Wine Tour from Hobart and Southern Tasmania: $144
  • From Drink Tasmania Whisky Distillery Tour: $194
  • Tasmanian Whisky Distillery Tour: $195
  • Whisky Distillery Tours and Tastings - Hobart/SE Tasmania: $227
  • Tasmanian Tipples: Hobart Distillery Discovery Tours: $227
  • 6 Hour Distillery Guided Tours in Tasmania with Lunch and Tasting: $229
  • Whisky Distillery Tours and Tastings in Hobart and SE Tasmania: $229


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

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


Which is Bigger, Torquay or Hobart?

Hobart has a larger population, and is about 0% larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Torquay and Hobart, 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 Torquay or Hobart?

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 Torquay or Hobart in the Summer?

Both Hobart and Torquay are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Torquay this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hobart for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Torquay is a little warmer than Hobart in the summer. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 26°C (78°F) in January, and Hobart fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Torquay. In January, Torquay usually receives more rain than Hobart. Torquay gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Torquay 26°C (78°F) 
    Hobart 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Hobart in the Autumn?

Both Hobart and Torquay during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hobart in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Torquay is much warmer than Hobart. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Torquay in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Hobart averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Torquay usually gets more rain in April than Hobart. Torquay gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Torquay 22°C (72°F) 
    Hobart 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Hobart in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Torquay and Hobart. Many visitors come to Torquay in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hobart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In July, Torquay is generally much warmer than Hobart. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 15°C (59°F), and Hobart fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In July, Torquay usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hobart. Torquay gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Torquay 15°C (59°F) 
    Hobart 9°C (47°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Hobart in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Torquay as well as Hobart. Most visitors come to Torquay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Torquay is much warmer than Hobart in the spring. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 21°C (71°F) in October, and Hobart fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Torquay usually gets more rain in October than Hobart. Torquay gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Torquay 21°C (71°F) 
    Hobart 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Hobart and Torquay

Torquay Hobart
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (47°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)