A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Adelaide for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur and Adelaide. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a colorful, historic, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a welcoming, friendly, and under-rated city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Adelaide travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Adelaide: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Adelaide, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kuala Lumpur is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Adelaide is known for its beaches and hiking. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Adelaide and is known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also home to The Petronas Twin Towers. Adelaide is popular for its wine scene, vibrant festivals, green spaces, and local sporting events.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Adelaide?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

Adelaide offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting buildings along North Terrace such as the Parliament House, the State Library of South Australia, and the South Australian Museum. At the Botanic Garden there's the Santos Museum of Economic Botany. Also make sure you check out the Art Gallery of South Australia.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Kuala Lumpur have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Adelaide. There's great wine, local restaurants, and charming cafes. You'll find local dishes as well as international flavors around town. The local produce is good and the restaurants offer fresh and delicious recipes.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Nightlife?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Adelaide has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is filled with rooftop bars, live music venues, and boutique wine bars. Whether you're looking for trendy and luxury or casual and laid back, there are many places to spend a night out.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Beaches?

Adelaide is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Adelaide for it's beautiful beaches. Part of what makes the city's beaches so great is how accessible they are. You don't have to go far to be at some of the area's best beaches. Glenelg is a family-friendly beach near town. It's also the most popular and most accessible. Brighton is relaxed with cafes and small restaurants nearby. And for seafood, head to Henley.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Hiking?

Adelaide is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Adelaide offers some nice hiking trails. Outside of town there are national parks and reserves with hiking trails. You don't have to go far to explore the coastline or bushland in the area.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for shopping. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Adelaide is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Rundle Mall is the most well known shopping area in town. You'll find boutique shops as well as large department stores. Whether you're looking for international fashion brands or something more local, there are many places to explore.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Adelaide is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Adelaide is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Families?

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

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Adelaide. There are kids museums, water parks, playgrounds, and beaches that are fun to explore with children. The city has a family-friendly vibe with kid-friendly restaurants and a welcoming personality.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for romance. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Adelaide makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A great date activity is a night at the opera. There are also boat rides, hot air balloon rides, and nice restaurants that make for a fun evening out.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Kuala Lumpur is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Adelaide. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but those who venture here will enjoy a great wine scene, beautiful beaches, and lively festivals.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular city for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Adelaide is popular with students. It's a friendly and affordable city that has a nice student culture. It's very livable and accessible to other interesting places.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Kuala Lumpur has a great public transit system. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Adelaide has some very good public transit options. There are bus, trains, and trams throughout the city center.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Adelaide are very good when it comes to walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Adelaide is a very walkable city. The city is compact and laid out in a grid pattern, so it's easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Adelaide Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adelaide or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

It's fun to spend time in either Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-4 days is enough time in Adelaide.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Adelaide 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 Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Kuala Lumpur is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Adelaide, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this welcoming city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Kuala Lumpur 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kuala Lumpur, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Adelaide is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kuala Lumpur, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Adelaide. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to explore. 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.

Adelaide is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Adelaide. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Adelaide, 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 Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide?

Adelaide has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide in the Summer?

Both Adelaide and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Adelaide because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Adelaide in the summer. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Adelaide fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Adelaide. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Adelaide during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Adelaide receives 330 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Adelaidein January. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide in the Autumn?

Both Adelaide and Kuala Lumpur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Adelaide this time of year.

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Adelaide. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Adelaide averages at about 18°C (64°F)in April.

In Adelaide, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Adelaidein April. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adelaide receives 215 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Adelaidein April. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Adelaide. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, many travelers come to Adelaide for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Adelaidein July. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Adelaide fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Adelaide during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Adelaide receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Adelaidein July. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Adelaide in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Adelaide. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Adelaide in the spring for the beaches.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Adelaide in the spring. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Adelaide fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Adelaide. In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Adelaidein October. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adelaide receives 256 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Adelaidein October. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Adelaide receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Adelaide and Kuala Lumpur