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

Should you visit Perth or Rotorua?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Perth and Rotorua can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a easy-going, isolated, and sunny city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Perth travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Rotorua travel costs.

Perth and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Rotorua?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Rotorua than Perth. While Perth is larger than Rotorua, Rotorua has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Rotorua is better known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Perth is more popular for its beaches. Rotorua is more touristy than Perth and is known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Also, Rotorua is famous for Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Perth is well known for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Perth different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Perth or Rotorua.

Many visitors head to Perth specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Rotorua can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Perth or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rotorua is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Rotorua. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Is Perth or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Perth and Rotorua.

If you're looking for night time activities Perth has a few options to choose from. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rotorua. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Perth or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Perth is an amazing city to visit for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Perth is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Perth or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is great for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Rotorua for the hiking trails. 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.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Rotorua?

If you're looking to go shopping, Perth and Rotorua both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Perth. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

Rotorua offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Perth or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Rotorua is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Perth or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Perth is a very kid-friendly city. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Is Perth or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is very popular for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Rotorua has plenty to offer. 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.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Is Perth or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Perth or Rotorua Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Perth. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Perth and Rotorua both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Perth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Rotorua has a few public transit options. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Perth or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Perth and Rotorua are notable when it comes to walkability.

Perth is somewhat walkable. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Rotorua is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Perth Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Perth?

How long in Perth or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Perth and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Perth than in Rotorua. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

Families should spend more time in Rotorua than Perth. 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.

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

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

One day in Perth or Rotorua?

In Perth, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Rotorua, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this world-renowned destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Perth or Rotorua?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotorua. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Perth or Rotorua?

Perth is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Rotorua is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rotorua. 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.

A week in Perth or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Perth. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Perth. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the natural destination of Rotorua. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Australia, The Best Luxury 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 Perth and Rotorua, we can see that Perth 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 Perth would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Perth 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 Perth Expensive? and Is Rotorua Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Perth or Rotorua?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Perth 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 Perth 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 Perth or Rotorua in the Summer?

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

In January, Perth is generally much warmer than Rotorua. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 25°C (76°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In January, Perth usually receives less rain than Rotorua. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Perth or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Perth as well as Rotorua. Many visitors come to Perth in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Perth is a little warmer than Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 19°C (67°F) in April, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Perth usually gets more rain in April than Rotorua. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Rotorua in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Perth is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Perth in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite rainy in Perth. In July, Perth usually receives more rain than Rotorua. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Perth or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Perth during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Perth because of the beaches. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In October, Perth is generally cooler than Rotorua. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 17°C (62°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Perth usually gets more rain in October than Rotorua. Perth 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 Perth