A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagasaki vs. Torquay for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Nagasaki or Torquay?

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

Should I visit Nagasaki or Torquay? 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.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a interesting, authentic, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Torquay

Torquay is a laid back, hip, and thriving surf town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Torquay offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Torquay travel costs.

Nagasaki and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Nagasaki or Torquay?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagasaki. Although Nagasaki and Torquay are both popular with visitors, Nagasaki has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagasaki is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Torquay is known for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nagasaki is more touristy than Torquay and is known for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. It is also home to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Torquay is popular for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Nagasaki different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagasaki or Torquay?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Nagasaki is great for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nagasaki can be an interesting and educational experience. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.


Is the Food Better in Nagasaki or Torquay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Nagasaki is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Nagasaki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Nagasaki or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Nagasaki is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Nagasaki for the nightlife scene. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Nagasaki or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Torquay is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Torquay. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.


Is Nagasaki or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Torquay is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Torquay. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagasaki or Torquay?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Nagasaki and Torquay.

Nagasaki has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.

Torquay is a great destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Nagasaki or Torquay More Beautiful?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Torquay is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Torquay offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There's a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and nice coastal walks.

Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Nagasaki or Torquay Better for Families?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nagasaki or Torquay.

Nagasaki is a family-friendly city. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Torquay. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Nagasaki or Torquay Better for Couples?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Torquay is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Torquay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.

Is Nagasaki or Torquay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Nagasaki and Torquay are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nagasaki. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

Torquay is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.


Is Nagasaki or Torquay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Nagasaki is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its public transit.

Nagasaki has some very good public transit options. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

Torquay has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Is Nagasaki or Torquay a more walkable city?

Nagasaki
Torquay

Torquay is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Torquay is a very walkable destination. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

Nagasaki is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagasaki Worth Visiting? and Is Torquay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Nagasaki?

How long in Nagasaki or Torquay?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagasaki than Torquay 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 Nagasaki.


  • How many days in Nagasaki or Torquay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagasaki 2-3 
    Torquay 2-3

One day in Nagasaki or Torquay?

In Nagasaki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The surf town of Torquay offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Nagasaki or Torquay?

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

Torquay is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this surf town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Torquay, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Nagasaki or Torquay?

Nagasaki 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.

Torquay is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Nagasaki or Torquay?

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

Torquay is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This surf town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Torquay or Nagasaki?

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 Nagasaki is $114, while the average daily cost in Torquay is $106. 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 Nagasaki and Torquay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagasaki $49
    Torquay $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagasaki $98
    Torquay $78
Compare Hotels in Nagasaki and Torquay

Looking for a hotel in Nagasaki or Torquay? 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 Nagasaki


Hotels in Torquay


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: Nagasaki Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagasaki $19
    Torquay $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagasaki

Also for Nagasaki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Nagasaki International Airport to Nagasaki City Private Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Nagasaki City to Nagasaki International Airport Private Departure Transfer: $196
  • Private Transfer from Nagasaki Airport (NGS) to Nagasaki Port: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagasaki or Torquay?

Prices for flights to both Torquay and Nagasaki 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
    Nagasaki $50
    Torquay $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagasaki

For Nagasaki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking with a Local Okaasan at Kominka in Ojika Island Nagasaki: $41
  • Sunset Beach Dinner: $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagasaki $23
    Torquay $11

Tours and Activities in Nagasaki

For Nagasaki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Customizable Full-Day Private Tours in Nagasaki with private car: $300
  • Discover Stunning Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Experience farming (rice cultivation) in terraced rice paddies: $38
  • Finding Local Cats and Hidden Alleys of Nagasaki Walking Tour: $62
  • Full day Private Tour for Shore Excursion in Nagasaki: $206
  • Gunkanjima Digital Museum Attraction Ticket: $13
  • Mochitsuki Rice Cake Making Experience in Ojika Island: $78
  • Must-See Nagasaki With A Local: Private & Personalized Walking Experience: $256
  • Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $151
  • Nagasaki GPS App Walking Tour Mobile Game: $12
  • Nagasaki Gyoza&Soy Sauce Ramen Culinary Experience: $83
  • Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $117

Tours and Activities in Torquay

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Torquay.

  • Enjoy a VIP Booth Shared Experience From Gympie: $106
  • Experience History onboard The Mary Valley Rattler: $46
  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $74
  • Freedom 3/4 Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $124
  • Hervey Bay Sunset Cruise: $64
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $99
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $107
  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $59
  • Morning Farm Experience near Gympie & Noosa: $59
  • SUMMER K'gari (Fraser Island) Boom-net & Sightseeing Cruise: $40
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $104
  • Sunset Twilight Cruise in Hervey Bay: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagasaki $11
    Torquay $7.48


When comparing the travel costs between Nagasaki and Torquay, we can see that Nagasaki is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Nagasaki is in Asia and Torquay is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Nagasaki or Torquay?

Nagasaki has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Nagasaki and Torquay, 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 Nagasaki or Torquay?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Torquay is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Nagasaki has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Nagasaki or Torquay in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagasaki and Torquay. Many travelers come to Nagasaki for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Torquay in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nagasaki is generally around the same temperature as Torquayin January. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 27°C (81°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Torquay receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Torquayin January. Nagasaki gets 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nagasaki 27°C (81°F) 
    Torquay 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Torquay in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagasaki as well as Torquay. Many visitors come to Nagasaki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Nagasaki is cooler than Torquay in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagasaki averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Torquay fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagasaki usually gets more rain in October than Torquayin April. Nagasaki gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nagasaki 20°C (67°F) 
    Torquay 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Torquay in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Nagasaki is much colder than Torquay. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagasaki in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Torquay averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In January, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Torquayin July. Nagasaki gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nagasaki 7°C (44°F) 
    Torquay 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Torquay in the Spring?

Both Torquay and Nagasaki during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Torquay this time of year.

In April, Nagasaki is generally cooler than Torquayin October. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 16°C (60°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagasaki. Nagasaki usually gets more rain in April than Torquayin October. Nagasaki gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nagasaki 16°C (60°F) 
    Torquay 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Torquay and Nagasaki

Nagasaki Torquay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 175 mm (6.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 193 mm (7.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 328 mm (12.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 334 mm (13.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 187 mm (7.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 191 mm (7.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 9°C (48°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)


Related Articles for Nagasaki
Related Articles for Torquay