A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yogyakarta vs. Lake Tekapo for Food, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo? 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 colorful, youthful, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small, remote, and basic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Lake Tekapo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking. See Lake Tekapo travel costs.

Yogyakarta and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yogyakarta. Although Yogyakarta and Lake Tekapo are both popular with visitors, Yogyakarta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yogyakarta is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Lake Tekapo is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Yogyakarta is more touristy than Lake Tekapo and is popular for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows. It is also home to Borobudur Temple. Lake Tekapo is popular for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Yogyakarta different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

Yogyakarta is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Yogyakarta on the map. 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.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Yogyakarta is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Yogyakarta is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Lake Tekapo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Yogyakarta is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Yogyakarta know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Lake Tekapo This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo Better for its Old Town?

Yogyakarta is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake Tekapo does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Yogyakarta. 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.

Lake Tekapo does not have a historic old town.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

Yogyakarta is terrific for its shopping areas. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for shopping.

Yogyakarta is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo More Beautiful?

Lake Tekapo is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Lake Tekapo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. You really want to get out of town and explore the area's stunning natural beauty.

Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Lake Tekapo 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, Lake Tekapo is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking 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 Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Yogyakarta and Lake Tekapo make for a good place to visit.

Yogyakarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Lake Tekapo is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yogyakarta is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yogyakarta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 budget travelers visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo Better for Students?

Yogyakarta is a good destination for students. However, Lake Tekapo is not popular with students.

Yogyakarta is popular with students. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Lake Tekapo is not popular with students.

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

Yogyakarta is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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 quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Yogyakarta and Lake Tekapo are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Lake Tekapo is a somewhat walkable city. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

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

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Yogyakarta than Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo.

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

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

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

One day in Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Yogyakarta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With around the remote town of Lake Tekapo, 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 Lake Tekapo, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Yogyakarta. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With around the destination of Lake Tekapo, 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 Lake Tekapo?

The youthful city of Yogyakarta offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lake Tekapo, 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 Lake Tekapo?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Yogyakarta. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lake Tekapo 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, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yogyakarta and Lake Tekapo, we can see that Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Yogyakarta or Lake Tekapo?

Yogyakarta has a larger population, and is about 1930 times larger than the population of Lake Tekapo. When comparing the sizes of Yogyakarta and Lake Tekapo, 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.