A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Torquay vs. Newcastle for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Torquay or Newcastle?

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

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

Torquay

Torquay is a outdoorsy, trendy, and casual surf town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a high energy, trendy, and coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Torquay and Newcastle: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Torquay or Newcastle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newcastle. Although Torquay and Newcastle are both popular with visitors, Newcastle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newcastle is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Torquay is known for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Torquay is popular for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. Newcastle is popular for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. It is also home to the Bathers Way.

How is Torquay different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Torquay
Newcastle

Newcastle 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 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.

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 Newcastle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Torquay
Newcastle

Newcastle 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.

Newcastle has a huge number of terrific 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.

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 Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

Torquay
Newcastle

Newcastle is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Newcastle for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Torquay or Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Torquay
Newcastle

Torquay 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 Torquay. 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.

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 Torquay or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Torquay
Newcastle

Torquay is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Torquay is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Newcastle. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Torquay or Newcastle?

Torquay
Newcastle

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

Newcastle is well-known for its shopping. 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.

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 Newcastle Better for Families?

Torquay
Newcastle

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

Torquay offers lots of family activities. 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.

Newcastle is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Torquay or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Torquay
Newcastle

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

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

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 Torquay or Newcastle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Torquay
Newcastle

For backpackers, both Torquay and Newcastle are good 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.

Newcastle is a good surf town 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 Torquay or Newcastle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Torquay
Newcastle

Torquay and Newcastle both offer good 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.

Newcastle has a few public transit options. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.


Is Torquay or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Torquay
Newcastle

Torquay is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Torquay?

How long in Torquay or Newcastle?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Torquay or Newcastle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Torquay 2-3 
    Newcastle 2-4

One day in Torquay or Newcastle?

You'll find shopping and museums around the surf town of Torquay. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Newcastle, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Newcastle?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Torquay. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this surf town has to offer. This surf town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Newcastle, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newcastle has to offer.


Five days in Torquay or Newcastle?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the trendy surf town of Torquay. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Newcastle is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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 Newcastle?

Torquay is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Newcastle or Torquay?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Torquay is $87, while the average daily cost in Newcastle is $91. 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 Newcastle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Torquay $39
    Newcastle $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Torquay $78
    Newcastle $90
Compare Hotels in Torquay and Newcastle

Looking for a hotel in Torquay or Newcastle? 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 Newcastle


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: Newcastle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Torquay $39
    Newcastle $8.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Newcastle:

  • Bimbadgen Lunch Tour with Helicopter Transfers: $755
  • Tandem Beach Skydive with Optional Transfers: $190
  • Private Transfer - Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney Airport (SYD): $90
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Cruise Port to Sydney City Hotels: $90
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Newcastle Port: $30
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle Airport (NTL): $30
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle city hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from Newcastle City Hotels to Newcastle Port: $29
  • Newcastle to Newcastle Airport (NTL) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Newcastle - Arrival Private Transfer: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Torquay or Newcastle?

Prices for flights to both Newcastle 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
    Newcastle $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Torquay $11
    Newcastle $15

Tours and Activities in Torquay

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

  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $53
  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $67
  • Turtle Discovery & Great Sandy Marine Park Adventure: $83
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $87
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $87
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $94
  • Three-Quarter Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $120

Tours and Activities in Newcastle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Newcastle are as follows:

  • 3- Hour Wine and Harvest the Hunter Horse Tour in Pokolbin: $93
  • 3-Hour Hunter Valley Scenic Helicopter Tour Including 3-Course Lunch from Cessnock: $257
  • Architecture, Street Art & Hidden Secrets Walking Tour of Newcastle: $33
  • Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard - Sweet Indulgence Experience: $37
  • Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard: Fromage and Fortified Wine Experience: $47
  • Award Winning Full Day Wine and Food Experience: $150
  • Eat And Drink Newcastle History Walking Tour: $60
  • Family Pass: Fighter World Museum Admission Ticket: $30
  • From Hunter Valley Beer & Wine Group Tour: $164
  • Full Day Tour in Country Towns, Rivers and Aussie Farm: $144
  • Helicopter Tour of Hunter Valley in New South Wales with Lunch: $284
  • Humpback Whale Encounter Tour from Newcastle: $83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Torquay $7.47
    Newcastle $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle:

  • Boutique Wine Tasting Experience in Pokolbin: $6.68
  • Ivanhoe Wines: Trip Advisor Seated Wine Tasting Masterclass: $10
  • Tulloch Wines - Wine Tasting paired with Local Handmade Chocolates: $20
  • 30-Minute Distillery Guided Tour in Carrington : $23
  • Cheese and Wine Tasting Experience in Pokolbin: $26
  • Tintilla Estate: Wine Tasting with a Meat and Cheese Platter: $27
  • Tulloch Wines Hunter Heroes Wine Tasting with Local Cheese & Charcuterie Board: $33
  • Tulloch Wines- Mystery Wine Tasting Experience with Local Cheese and Charcuterie: $33
  • Premium Wine Tasting Experience in Pokolbin: $50
  • Snapshot Half Day Hunter Valley Wine Tour: $73
  • Hunter Valley Wine Tour from the Hunter with Wine Craft Beer Cheese Chocolate: $103
  • Half Day Wine Tour with Light Lunch at Hunter Valley: $107


When comparing the travel costs between Torquay and Newcastle, we can see that Newcastle 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 Torquay Expensive? and Is Newcastle Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Torquay or Newcastle?

Newcastle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Torquay 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 Torquay or Newcastle?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Torquay or Newcastle in the Summer?

Both Newcastle and Torquay during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Torquay in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newcastle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Torquay is a little warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Torquay in January average around 26°C (78°F), and Newcastle averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Newcastle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Torquay. Torquay usually gets more rain in January than Newcastle. Torquay gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January
    Torquay 26°C (78°F) 
    Newcastle 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Newcastle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Torquay and Newcastle. Most visitors come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In April, Torquay is generally a little warmer than Newcastle. Daily temperatures in Torquay average around 22°C (72°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

Newcastle receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In April, Torquay usually receives less rain than Newcastle. Torquay gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April
    Torquay 22°C (72°F) 
    Newcastle 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Newcastle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Torquay as well as Newcastle. The winter months attract visitors to Torquay because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle this time of year.

Torquay is a little warmer than Newcastle in the winter. The daily temperature in Torquay averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Newcastle fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Torquay usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Newcastle. Torquay gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July
    Torquay 15°C (59°F) 
    Newcastle 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Torquay or Newcastle in the Spring?

Both Newcastle and Torquay are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Torquay this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newcastle for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Torquay is a little warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Torquay in October average around 21°C (71°F), and Newcastle averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In October, Torquay usually receives less rain than Newcastle. Torquay gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October
    Torquay 21°C (71°F) 
    Newcastle 18°C (64°F)

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Torquay

Torquay Newcastle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)