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

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

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 Newcastle can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spiritual, spectacular, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a coastal, vibrant, and high energy 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Newcastle: 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 public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newcastle. Although Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Newcastle are both popular with visitors, Newcastle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newcastle is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Newcastle and is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Newcastle is popular for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. It is also home to the Bathers Way.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Newcastle 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 Newcastle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 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 Newcastle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Newcastle 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 Newcastle is an experience not to be missed. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Newcastle 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.

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

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 Newcastle Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Newcastle 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.

Newcastle is not a resort destination.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

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

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.

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

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Newcastle?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Newcastle 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.

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 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 Newcastle Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Newcastle is a family-friendly national park. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is terrific for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Newcastle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Newcastle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

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

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

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 Newcastle a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Newcastle

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Newcastle are good when it comes to walkability.

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

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

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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Newcastle. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-4 days is enough time in Newcastle.

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

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


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

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

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newcastle. 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 Newcastle?

You'll find museums and food around the other-worldly 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Newcastle. 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 Newcastle?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the other-worldly 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the destination of Newcastle. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

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.

Newcastle 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, Newcastle 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 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Newcastle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Newcastle $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Newcastle $90
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Newcastle

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


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.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Newcastle $8.40

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Newcastle:

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

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

Prices for flights to both Newcastle 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
    Newcastle $35

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Newcastle $15

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

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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Newcastle, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Newcastle much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newcastle would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newcastle and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than you might in Newcastle.

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


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