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

Should you visit Yogyakarta or New York City?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta or New York City? 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 historical, colorful, and youthful city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. New York City is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See New York City travel costs.

Yogyakarta and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City than Yogyakarta. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. New York City is very popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Yogyakarta attracts visitors for its historical sights. New York City is more touristy than Yogyakarta and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Yogyakarta is famous for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows.

How is Yogyakarta different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City 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 New York City?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Yogyakarta and New York City.

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.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put New York City on the map. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Yogyakarta is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in New York City draw crowds from around the world. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Yogyakarta is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Yogyakarta or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, New York City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

New York City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Yogyakarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is renowned for its live music scene. However, Yogyakarta is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New York City. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Yogyakarta is not a live music destination.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City Better for its Old Town?

Yogyakarta is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, New York City 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.

New York City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or New York City?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Yogyakarta and New York City.

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.

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City More Beautiful?

New York City is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

New York City is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City Better for Families?

New York City 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, New York City is very family-friendly. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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 New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

New York City makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yogyakarta and New York City are both superb destinations 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.

New York City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

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

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

New York City is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Yogyakarta is lacking in good options for its public transit.

New York City has a great public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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.

Is Yogyakarta or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Yogyakarta Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or New York City?

Both Yogyakarta and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Yogyakarta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Yogyakarta, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Yogyakarta 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 New York City.

One day in Yogyakarta or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Yogyakarta. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting New York City, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yogyakarta. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

When visiting New York City, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Yogyakarta or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Yogyakarta. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

New York City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Yogyakarta or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Yogyakarta. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Yogyakarta or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Yogyakarta. When comparing the sizes of Yogyakarta and New York City, 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.