A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hobart vs. Wellington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Hobart or Wellington?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hobart and Wellington can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hobart

Hobart is a historical, charming, and fascinating city. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Hobart travel costs.

Wellington

Wellington is a compact, laid-back, and funky city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Wellington travel costs.

Hobart and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hobart or Wellington?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Wellington than Hobart, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wellington is better known for its nightlife and beaches, while Hobart is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Hobart is well known for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails. Wellington is well known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. Also, Wellington is famous for Zealandia Ecosanctuary.

How is Hobart different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hobart or Wellington?

Hobart is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Hobart offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Hobart or Wellington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Hobart and Wellington.

Hobart has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

Dining out in Wellington is an experience not to be missed. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Wellington for the nightlife scene. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hobart. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Beaches?

Wellington is great for the beach. However, Hobart is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Wellington attract visitors from all over. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Hobart is not a beach destination.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Hobart is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hobart. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Hobart or Wellington?

If you're looking to go shopping, Hobart and Wellington both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Hobart is well-known for its shopping. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Families?

Both Hobart and Wellington are excellent to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hobart is very family-friendly. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

Wellington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Couples?

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

Hobart makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.

Wellington is a good city for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wellington is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Wellington. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Hobart is not popular with students.

Is Hobart or Wellington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wellington is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Wellington has some very good public transit options. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

Hobart has a few public transit options. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

Is Hobart or Wellington a more walkable city?

Hobart and Wellington are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Hobart is a very walkable city. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring on foot.

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

For even more information, also check out Is Hobart Worth Visiting? and Is Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Hobart?

How long in Hobart or Wellington?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hobart and Wellington. In our opinion, Wellington has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Wellington than Hobart. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wellington than Hobart 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 Wellington.

One day in Hobart or Wellington?

With museums and nightlife around the charming city of Hobart, 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wellington. 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.

A weekend in Hobart or Wellington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Hobart, 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 city.

Wellington 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.

Five days in Hobart or Wellington?

Hobart, a popular city, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wellington. 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.

A week in Hobart or Wellington?

Hobart 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Wellington. This 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hobart or Wellington?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Hobart. When comparing the sizes of Hobart and Wellington, 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 Hobart or Wellington?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Hobart or Wellington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hobart and Wellington. Many travelers come to Hobart for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wellington in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hobart is around the same temperature as Wellington in the summer. The daily temperature in Hobart averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Wellington fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wellington this time of the year. In Hobart, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hobart usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wellington during summer. Hobart gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Hobart usually receives less rain than Wellington. Hobart gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hobart or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hobart as well as Wellington. Many visitors come to Hobart in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Wellington for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Hobart is around the same temperature as Wellington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hobart in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Wellington averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Hobart often gets more sunshine than Wellington. Hobart gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 163 hours of full sun.

Hobart usually gets less rain in April than Wellington. Hobart gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hobart or Wellington in the Winter?

Both Wellington and Hobart are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hobart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Wellington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Hobart is generally cooler than Wellington. Daily temperatures in Hobart average around 9°C (47°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Hobart usually receives more sunshine than Wellington during winter. Hobart gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. In July, Hobart usually receives less rain than Wellington. Hobart gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hobart or Wellington in the Spring?

Both Wellington and Hobart during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

Hobart is around the same temperature as Wellington in the spring. The daily temperature in Hobart averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Hobart. In the spring, Hobart often gets more sunshine than Wellington. Hobart gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 180 hours of full sun.

Hobart usually gets less rain in October than Wellington. Hobart gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wellington and Hobart