A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malang vs. Dunedin for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Malang or Dunedin?

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

Should I visit Malang or Dunedin? 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.

Malang

Malang is a cultural, under-rated, and authentic city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Malang travel costs.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a small, hilly, and cultural city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Dunedin travel costs.

Malang and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Malang or Dunedin?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Dunedin than Malang. While Malang is larger than Dunedin, Dunedin has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Dunedin is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Malang is more popular for its food. Malang is well known for its many nearby natural attractions. Dunedin is well known for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula. Also, Dunedin is famous for .



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How is Malang different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Malang or Dunedin?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Dunedin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

Malang offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of museums around town that provide information on the city's culture and history. There are also mosques, temples, and the famous Rainbow Village.


Is the Food Better in Malang or Dunedin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Malang
Dunedin

Malang is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Malang is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dunedin. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is well known for nightlife. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Dunedin is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

If you're looking for night time activities Malang has a few options to choose from. The universities around town mean that there's a youthful vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll also find a mix of cultural activities as well as modern and trendy venues. There are dance clubs, upscale lounges, and everything in between.

Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is a popular place for its beaches. However, Malang is not a beach destination.

Dunedin is a good option for a beach vacation. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Malang is not a beach destination.


Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Malang
Dunedin

If you're looking to go hiking, Malang and Dunedin both have notable trails.

Malang is a good destination for hiking. Many visitors use this city as a base for hiking Mount Bromo. It's popular to hire a jeep tour from town, or you can hire a private driver or motorbike. Near town you'll also find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It's possible to hike to the base of the waterfall, but it's a very challenging route.

Many people include a hike when visiting Dunedin. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Malang or Dunedin?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is well known for shopping. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Dunedin is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Malang. You'll find places to pick up many local items. The region is known for its ceramics, wood, and rattan (palms).

Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Families?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Dunedin is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Malang offers lots of family activities. If you're willing to head just outside of town, you'll find theme parks and waterparks. Some of the favorites are Batu Secret Zoo, Jatim Park, Selecta Park, and Batu Night Spectacular.


Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Malang
Dunedin

With fun activities for couples, both Malang and Dunedin make for a notable place to visit.

Malang is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy culture, museums, temples, and great food will have a good time visiting this city. It is also a bit cooler than much of Indonesia, which can make a nice escape from the heat.

Dunedin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is well known for backpackers. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Dunedin. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Malang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through town when they're headed to climb Mount Bromo. There are plenty of hostels and cheap places to stay as well as some sights that are worth checking out.

Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Students?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is well known for students. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Dunedin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

It's common for students to visit Malang. The university means that there's a large student population in town.


Is Malang or Dunedin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is a popular place for its public transit. However, Malang is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Dunedin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Malang. Angkot or mikrolet are small buses or modified cars that carry passengers around town. Many visitors also hire a motor scooter or driver to get around.

Is Malang or Dunedin a more walkable city?

Malang
Dunedin

Dunedin is well known for its walkability. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Dunedin is very walkable. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

Malang is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Malang Worth Visiting? and Is Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Malang?

How long in Malang or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Malang and Dunedin. In our opinion, Dunedin has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dunedin than Malang. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dunedin than Malang 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 Dunedin.


  • How many days in Malang or Dunedin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malang 1-3 
    Dunedin 1-3

One day in Malang or Dunedin?

In Malang, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Dunedin. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Malang or Dunedin?

In Malang, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malang has to offer.

Dunedin 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 Malang or Dunedin?

Malang is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dunedin. 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 Malang or Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malang. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Malang. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Dunedin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Dunedin or Malang?

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 Malang is $76, while the average daily cost in Dunedin is $122. 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 Malang and Dunedin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malang $43
    Dunedin $51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malang $86
    Dunedin $102
Compare Hotels in Malang and Dunedin

Looking for a hotel in Malang or Dunedin? 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 Malang


Hotels in Dunedin


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: Malang Hotel Prices and Dunedin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malang $1.36
    Dunedin $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malang

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malang:

  • FROM YOGYAKARTA TRANSFER TO BROMO/SURABAYA/MALANG CITY.: $50
  • Private Transfer - Malang To Surabaya International Airport: $38
  • Yogyakarta ;Transfer Service From Yogyakarta to Bromo/Malang: $109

Is it cheaper to fly into Malang or Dunedin?

Prices for flights to both Dunedin and Malang 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
    Malang $29
    Dunedin $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Malang

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Malang.

  • Malang Cooking Class by Mam Warti: $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malang $8.53
    Dunedin $17

Tours and Activities in Malang

Here are a few actual costs in Malang for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • From Bromo Sunrise Guided Group Tour: $32
  • 1 Day Mount Bromo Sharing Tour Package from Malang: $34
  • 1Day - Bromo Sunrise Tour via Malang (Sharing or Private Jeep): $39
  • Waterfalls Tour: $40
  • 1 Day Amazing Bromo Sunrise tour from Malang Surabaya 7 spots: $41
  • Bromo Adventure: $50
  • 1 Day - ULTIMATE TOUR Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Goa Tetes cave // 07:30 - 17:30: $52
  • 1Day - Malang Cycling Village Tour: $60
  • Private Tour in Tumpak Sewu Waterfalls from Malang or Surabaya: $64
  • East Java Dirt Bike Tours: $65
  • 1 Day - Tumpak Sewu, Kapas Biru Waterfall, Goa Tetes cave* Tour // 07:30 - 17:00: $75
  • 1Day - Bromo Non Sunrise Tour via Malang (to avoid crowd): $79

Tours and Activities in Dunedin

Here are a few actual costs in Dunedin for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Olveston Historic Home Guided Tour: $16
  • Larnach Castle and Gardens Admission Ticket: $27
  • Larnach Castle & Gardens Admission Ticket: $28
  • Garden and City tour: $35
  • Heritage Dunedin City Walking Guided Tour: $39
  • Wildlife and Penguin Tour: $39
  • Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise with Monarch: $39
  • Monarch - One Hour Wildlife Cruise: $41
  • Wildlife and Penguin Tour: $43
  • Shore Excursion: V8 Trike, Peninsula and City Tour: $48
  • Dunedin Nature & City Tour – Full Day Cruise Excursion: $56
  • Iconic Shore Excursion: Dunedin City Highlights Tour: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malang -
    Dunedin $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Dunedin

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dunedin:

  • Speight's Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting: $27
  • Speight's Brewery Guided Tour with Tasting: $27
  • City Sights Tour, Distillery & Lunch all inclusive: $138


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

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


Which is Bigger, Malang or Dunedin?

Malang has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dunedin. When comparing the sizes of Malang and Dunedin, 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.