A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wollongong vs. Picton for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Wollongong or Picton?

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

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

Wollongong

Wollongong is a student-friendly, trendy, and vibrant coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Wollongong travel costs.

Picton

Picton is a picturesque, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Picton travel costs.

Wollongong and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wollongong or Picton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wollongong. Although Wollongong and Picton are popular destinations, Wollongong has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wollongong is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities, while Picton attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Picton is more touristy than Wollongong and is popular for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails. Wollongong is famous for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also well known for Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Wollongong different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wollongong or Picton?

Wollongong is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Wollongong. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

Is the Food Better in Wollongong or Picton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Wollongong and Picton can be an enjoyable experience.

Wollongong has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Picton makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Wollongong is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

Wollongong offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Wollongong and Picton are superb choices.

Wollongong is considered a top beach destination. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Picton is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Hiking?

Picton is great for hiking. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Picton for the hiking trails. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Wollongong or Picton?

If you're looking to go shopping, Wollongong and Picton both offer plenty of nice spots.

Wollongong has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Picton is a great destination for shopping. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Wollongong or Picton.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Wollongong. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Picton is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Wollongong and Picton make for a superb place to visit.

Wollongong is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

Picton is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Picton is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Picton. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Students?

Wollongong is a good destination for students. However, Picton is not popular with students.

Wollongong is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Picton is not popular with students.

Is Wollongong or Picton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wollongong is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Wollongong can get you to most places easily. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

Picton has some public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Is Wollongong or Picton a more walkable city?

Wollongong and Picton are superb when it comes to walkability.

Wollongong is a very walkable destination. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

Picton is very walkable. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Wollongong Worth Visiting? and Is Picton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Picton or Wollongong?

How long in Wollongong or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Wollongong or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Wollongong than Picton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Wollongong, and 1-2 days is enough time in Picton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Picton than Wollongong 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 Picton.

One day in Wollongong or Picton?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wollongong. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and food around the scenic town of Picton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Picton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Wollongong or Picton?

Wollongong is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the destination of Picton, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Wollongong or Picton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wollongong. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Picton, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wollongong or Picton?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the student-friendly destination of Wollongong. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Picton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Australia, The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wollongong or Picton?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Wollongong and Picton, 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 Wollongong or Picton?

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 Wollongong or Picton in the Summer?

Both Picton and Wollongong during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wollongong for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Picton because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Wollongong is a little warmer than Picton in the summer. The daily temperature in Wollongong averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Picton fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Wollongong usually gets more rain in January than Picton. Wollongong gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wollongong or Picton in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wollongong and Picton. The autumn months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Picton this time of year.

In the autumn, Wollongong is a little warmer than Picton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wollongong in April average around 18°C (64°F), and Picton averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In April, Wollongong usually receives less rain than Picton. Wollongong gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wollongong or Picton in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wollongong as well as Picton. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Wollongong is generally around the same temperature as Picton. Daily temperatures in Wollongong average around 10°C (50°F), and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Picton. Wollongong usually gets less rain in July than Picton. Wollongong gets 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wollongong or Picton in the Spring?

Both Picton and Wollongong are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wollongong for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Picton in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

Wollongong is a little warmer than Picton in the spring. The daily temperature in Wollongong averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Picton fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In October, Wollongong usually receives less rain than Picton. Wollongong gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Picton and Wollongong