A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yogyakarta vs. Cromwell for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta or Cromwell? 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.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a youthful, cultural, and historical city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Cromwell

Cromwell is a cultural, outdoorsy, and historical town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Cromwell travel costs.

Yogyakarta and Cromwell: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to Borobudur Temple
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yogyakarta than Cromwell, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yogyakarta is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cromwell is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Yogyakarta is more touristy than Cromwell and is known for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows. Also, Yogyakarta is famous for Borobudur Temple. Cromwell is well known for its fruit farms, orchards, and vineyards.

How is Yogyakarta different from Cromwell?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Skiing?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Cromwell is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Yogyakarta is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Cromwell is a great destination to visit. The town isn't far from several ski fields, so it attracts winter sports enthusiasts when the weather gets cold.

Yogyakarta is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Yogyakarta are world-renowned. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cromwell. There are some interesting historical activities around town like Goldfields Mining Centre.

Is the Food Better in Yogyakarta or Cromwell? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Yogyakarta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cromwell area. There are charming cafes and bakeries where you can grab a light meal or snack. There are also quaint restaurants and wineries with nice meals available.

Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Nightlife?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Yogyakarta has something for everybody. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cromwell. There are a few breweries and a number of wineries around town where you can have a relaxing night out.


Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for its Old Town?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta is a great city for its old town. However, Cromwell does not have a historic old town.

Yogyakarta is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

Cromwell does not have a historic old town.

Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Hiking?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Cromwell is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cromwell. There are many beautiful walks in the area that take you through diverse landscapes and to impressive views.

Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Yogyakarta draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

Many visitors go to Cromwell to go shopping. There's a farmers market in town as well as several local vendors and cute shops.


Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Families?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Cromwell is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cromwell is very family-friendly. The lakefront setting means that there are water activities during the warmer months. There are also ski fields nearby for the winter months. Biking and walking are also popular in the area.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yogyakarta. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Couples?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Cromwell is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cromwell makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Cycling, walking, kayaking, and skiing all make this a romantic a charming town to visit as a couple. There are also wineries in the area with beautiful vineyards.

Yogyakarta is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Yogyakarta. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cromwell. There are a handful of great hostels in the area and plenty of things to keep backpackers entertained.


Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Students?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Cromwell is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Yogyakarta. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Cromwell is not popular with students.

Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Yogyakarta and Cromwell.

Public transit is mostly limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

Public transit is generally limited in Cromwell. Public transit around town is limited to a couple of buses.

Is Yogyakarta or Cromwell a more walkable city?

Yogyakarta
Cromwell

Yogyakarta and Cromwell are notable when it comes to walkability.

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.

Cromwell is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the town are walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Yogyakarta Worth Visiting? and Is Cromwell Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cromwell or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yogyakarta than Cromwell 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 Yogyakarta.


  • How many days in Yogyakarta or Cromwell? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yogyakarta 2-4 
    Cromwell 1-2

One day in Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

The city of Yogyakarta offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With nightlife and food around the cultural town of Cromwell, 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 Cromwell, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

Yogyakarta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yogyakarta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With food and shopping around the destination of Cromwell, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

Yogyakarta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cromwell, 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 Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

Yogyakarta is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Cromwell 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 Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Cromwell or Yogyakarta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Yogyakarta is $64, while the average daily cost in Cromwell is $100. 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 Yogyakarta and Cromwell in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yogyakarta $35
    Cromwell $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yogyakarta $70
    Cromwell $78
Compare Hotels in Yogyakarta and Cromwell

Looking for a hotel in Yogyakarta or Cromwell? 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 Yogyakarta


Hotels in Cromwell


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: Yogyakarta Hotel Prices and Cromwell Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yogyakarta $1.28
    Cromwell $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yogyakarta

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

  • Jepara & One Way Private Transfer: $110
  • Private Layover Tour with Airport Transfers: $94
  • Semarang & Transfer To The Hotel or Airport: $93
  • Private Transfer from Kembanglimus to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $87
  • Yogyakarta Hidden Gems Tour with Private Guided Transfer: $84
  • Private Transfer from Borobudur to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $80
  • Private Transfer from Yogyakarta Airport (JOG) to South Rejowinangun: $76
  • Private Transfer from Yogyakarta Airport (JOG) to Borobudur: $75
  • Private Transfer from Banguntapan to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $74
  • Private Transfer from Parangtritis to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $72
  • Private Transfer from Donoharjo to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $72
  • Private Transfer from Condong Catur to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Yogyakarta or Cromwell?

Prices for flights to both Cromwell and Yogyakarta 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
    Yogyakarta $19
    Cromwell $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yogyakarta

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

  • Ramayana Show with Transfer, Entry Fee & Dinner: $13
  • Night Walking & Street Food Tour: $21
  • Guided City Walk and Food Tour: $23
  • Morning Walk and Food Tour: $23
  • Kotagede Night Food Tour: $27
  • Ramayana Ballet Performance with Optional Dinner: $28
  • Yogyakarta Historical Walking and Food Tour: $29
  • Yogyakarta Evening Walking and Food Tour: $30
  • Nighttime Walk and Food Tour: $32
  • Cooking Class with Market Visit and Hotel Pickup: $33
  • Prawirotaman Night Food Tour: $35
  • 3-hour Cooking Class with Market Tour: $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yogyakarta $15
    Cromwell $16

Tours and Activities in Yogyakarta

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

  • Beautiful Sunrise and Exotic Jomblang Cave Tour: $67
  • Exotic Jomblang Cave and Fun among the Sky Tour: $67
  • Sunrise : Punthuk Setumbu, Borobudur And Prambanan Temples Tour (PRIVATE TOUR): $121
  • "Java's Cultural Heritage: Borobudur and Prambanan Tour": $16
  • 1 Day Yogyakarta tour ( Borobudur temple, Merapi Lava Tour, Prambanan Temple): $76
  • 1 day Yogyakarta Tour Jomblang cave and Pindul Cave tubing: $72
  • 1 day tour Borobudur and Prambanan Temples : $40
  • 1 day tour borobudur temple,prambanan temple,plaosan temple: $40
  • 1-Day Yogyakarta Javanese Culture - PRIVATE TOUR with GUIDE: $198
  • 1-Day Yogyakarta Merapi Borobudur - PRIVATE Tour with GUIDE: $183
  • 1-Day Yogyakarta Merapi Pengger Heha - PRIVATE Tour with GUIDE: $140
  • 1-Day Yogyakarta Prambanan Breksi Ijo Temple - PRIVATE Tour with Guide: $184

Tours and Activities in Cromwell

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

  • Queenstown to Middlemarch Small-Group Guided Tour (One-Way): $92
  • Queenstown: Mount Cook Premium Guided Day Tour: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yogyakarta $4.74
    Cromwell $9.10


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yogyakarta and Cromwell, we can see that Cromwell is more expensive. And not only is Yogyakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Yogyakarta is in Asia and Cromwell is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Yogyakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yogyakarta 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 Cromwell would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cromwell than you might in Yogyakarta.

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