A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Melbourne vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Melbourne or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Melbourne or Rotorua? 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.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Melbourne travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a cultural, natural, and world-renowned town. The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rotorua travel costs.

Melbourne and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Rotorua?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Melbourne than Rotorua, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Melbourne is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Rotorua is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Rotorua is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Melbourne is popular for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. It is also home to the Royal Botanic Gardens.

How is Melbourne different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Melbourne or Rotorua?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Melbourne and Rotorua.

Melbourne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

Many visitors head to Rotorua specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Melbourne or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Melbourne and Rotorua offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

Melbourne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Dining out in Rotorua is an experience not to be missed. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Melbourne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Melbourne attract visitors from all over. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Rotorua. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Melbourne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Rotorua?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Melbourne. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Rotorua is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Melbourne is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Melbourne is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Rotorua is a very family-friendly destination. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Melbourne is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Rotorua makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rotorua is extremely popular for backpackers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Students?

Melbourne is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua is not popular with students.

Melbourne is a very popular city for students. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Melbourne. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Melbourne or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Melbourne is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Melbourne is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

For even more information, also check out Is Melbourne Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Melbourne and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Melbourne than in Rotorua. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Melbourne than Rotorua 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 Melbourne.

One day in Melbourne or Rotorua?

Because Melbourne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Rotorua. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Melbourne or Rotorua?

Because Melbourne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Melbourne has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the natural destination of Rotorua. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Melbourne or Rotorua?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Melbourne has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse town of Rotorua. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Melbourne or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Melbourne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Melbourne. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Rotorua is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Scuba Diving Tours in Australia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Rotorua?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne and Rotorua, 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 Melbourne or Rotorua?

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 Melbourne or Rotorua in the Summer?

Both Rotorua and Melbourne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Melbourne in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Melbourne is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Melbourne in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In January, Melbourne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rotorua. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Melbourne or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua and Melbourne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Melbourne for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Melbourne is generally around the same temperature as Rotorua. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 15°C (60°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Melbourne usually gets more rain in April than Rotorua. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Melbourne and Rotorua. The winter months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

Melbourne is much colder than Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 9°C (49°F) in July, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In July, Melbourne usually receives more rain than Rotorua. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Melbourne or Rotorua in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Melbourne as well as Rotorua. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Rotorua for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Melbourne is cooler than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Melbourne in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Melbourne usually gets more rain in October than Rotorua. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Melbourne