A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Melbourne for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Melbourne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Melbourne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Melbourne than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Melbourne is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Melbourne is well known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. Also, Melbourne is famous for the Royal Botanic Gardens.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Melbourne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Melbourne and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Melbourne is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Melbourne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Melbourne can be an enjoyable experience.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Dining out in Melbourne is an experience not to be missed. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Melbourne is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Melbourne has a large number of nightlife venues. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Melbourne is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Beaches?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Melbourne is a very popular place for the beache. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Melbourne is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Melbourne is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Melbourne is a good national park for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Students?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Melbourne is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Melbourne is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Melbourne can get you around easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Melbourne

Melbourne is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Melbourne is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable national park. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.


For even more information, also check out Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Melbourne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Melbourne or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

In either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Melbourne than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-5 days is enough time in Melbourne.

Families should spend more time in Melbourne than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Melbourne, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Melbourne than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Melbourne.


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Melbourne 2-5

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

You'll find shopping and museums around the national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

Melbourne is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

You'll find museums and food around the spectacular destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Melbourne is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. It offers something for everyone. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the spectacular national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Melbourne is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city.


A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Melbourne or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $152, while the average daily cost in Melbourne is $177. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Melbourne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Melbourne $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Melbourne $238
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Melbourne

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne? 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


Hotels in Melbourne


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: Melbourne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Melbourne $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $114

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Melbourne

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Melbourne:


  • Airport Bus
    $10
  • Tram Ride
    $2.48

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Melbourne

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

  • Yarra Valley: Hot Air Balloon with Breakfast & CBD Transfers: $321
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Melbourne HTL-APT (MEL): $99
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Melbourne APT-HTL (MEL): $99
  • Private airport transfer – Luxury euro vehicle : $141
  • Private Transfers: CBD/City to Melbourne Airport Tullamarine: $37
  • Private Transfer from Melbourne hotels to Melbourne Cruise Port: $39
  • Private Transfer from Melbourne Port to Melbourne Airport (MEL): $53
  • Private Transfer from Melbourne Cruise Port to Melbourne hotels: $39
  • Private Transfer from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Melbourne Port: $53
  • Private Transfer Melbourne International Airport to from Melbourne: $92
  • Private Transfer Melbourne Airport: $101
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Melbourne Airports: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Melbourne?

Prices for flights to both Melbourne and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $47
    Melbourne $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $131
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $191
  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta Experience with BBQ Dinner: $205
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $237

Typical Food Prices in Melbourne

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


  • Coffee
    $2.61
  • Pizza
    $4.57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Melbourne

For Melbourne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Multicultural Food Tour in Melbourne Markets: $52
  • Eynesbury Homestead Dinner and Ghost Tour: $54
  • Melbourne Private Multicultural Markets Food Tour: $73
  • Sunset Kayak Tour with Dinner: $79
  • Melbourne Sunset Kayaking Experience with Dinner: $81
  • Pizza Making Party: $91
  • Chinese Dumpling Cooking Class with a Drink: $98
  • Secret Food Tours Melbourne: $109
  • Secret Food Tour: $111
  • Chinese Cooking Class Master: $120
  • Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise: $124
  • Choose Your Asian Cuisine Cooking Masterclass: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Melbourne $27

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $13
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $237
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $105
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $142
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $65
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $60
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $67
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $142

Tours and Activities in Melbourne

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

  • Experience Yarra Valley: A Tailored private Wine Journey: $218
  • Mandarin Melbourne Walking Tour: $13
  • 1 Day Penguin Island Tour from Melbourne Penguins express: $80
  • 1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne: $127
  • 1-hour Yarra River Historical Cruise Tour: $26
  • 12 Apostles Great Ocean Road Eco Tour with lunch from Melbourne: $111
  • 2 Day Great Ocean Road Small Group Tour: $804
  • 2 Day Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne: $224
  • 2 day one night great ocean road 12 apostles budget tour: $155
  • 2-Hour Farm Experience in Gateway Yarra Valley: $67
  • 2023 Mt Buller, Melbourne Snow and Sightseeing Day Tour: $77
  • 3 Hour Rainforest Walking Tour in Badger Creek: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Melbourne $17

Typical Alcohol Prices in Melbourne

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    $5.06

Sample the Local Flavors in Melbourne

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

  • Melbourne Pub Crawl: $17
  • Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Walking Tour: $26
  • MELBOURNE Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Tour: $26
  • St. Patricks Day Bar Crawl Melbourne: $34
  • Laid back,Small-Group Yarra Valley Wine Tour :Wine,Gin,Cider+more: $93
  • Yarra Valley Day Trip with Local Wine Tastings from Melbourne: $104
  • Yarra Valley Wine Tasting Day Tour from Melbourne: $107
  • Yarra Valley Wine Tour inc lunch with a glass of wine, tastings and chocolate: $118
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Mornington Peninsula with Lunch: $127
  • Yarra Valley Gourmet Food & Wine Tasting Tour: $128
  • Southern Gippsland boutique Wine Tour with Tapas from Melbourne : $141
  • Mornington Peninsula Winery Tour Including Wine Tastings and 2-Course Lunch: $160


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Melbourne Expensive?.