A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wollongong vs. Taupo for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Wollongong or Taupo?

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

Should I visit Wollongong or Taupo? 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.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a vibrant, student-friendly, and trendy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Wollongong travel costs.

Taupo

Taupo is a otherworldly, striking, and stunning town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Taupo travel costs.

Wollongong and Taupo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wollongong or Taupo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wollongong. Although Wollongong and Taupo are both popular with visitors, Wollongong has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wollongong is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Taupo is known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Taupo is more touristy than Wollongong and is popular for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes. Wollongong is popular for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also home to Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Wollongong different from Taupo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Skiing?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Wollongong is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Taupo should be on your list. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Wollongong is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wollongong or Taupo?

Wollongong is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Wollongong offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

Is the Food Better in Wollongong or Taupo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Wollongong and Taupo can be an enjoyable experience.

Wollongong has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Taupo makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Nightlife?

Wollongong is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Wollongong know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Beaches?

Wollongong is a great destination for the beach. However, Taupo is not a beach destination.

Wollongong is considered a top beach destination. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Taupo is not a beach destination.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Hiking?

Taupo is great for hiking. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Taupo for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Wollongong or Taupo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Wollongong and Taupo both offer plenty of good spots.

Wollongong has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Taupo is a great destination for shopping. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Wollongong or Taupo More Beautiful?

Taupo is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Wollongong is not a destination known for its beauty.

Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Wollongong is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Families?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Taupo is a very family-friendly destination. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

Wollongong is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Couples?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Taupo makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Taupo, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Students?

Wollongong is a popular place for students. However, Taupo is not popular with students.

Wollongong is popular with students. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Taupo is not popular with students.

Is Wollongong or Taupo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wollongong is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Wollongong has some very good public transit options. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

While Taupo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Is Wollongong or Taupo a more walkable city?

Wollongong is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Wollongong is a very walkable coastal city. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Wollongong Worth Visiting? and Is Taupo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Taupo or Wollongong?

How long in Wollongong or Taupo?

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

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

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

One day in Wollongong or Taupo?

In Wollongong, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this student-friendly destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal city 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.

With shopping and skiing around the otherworldly town of Taupo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wollongong or Taupo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wollongong. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Taupo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Wollongong or Taupo?

Wollongong is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Wollongong. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Taupo, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wollongong or Taupo?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Wollongong. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Taupo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Australia, The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

When comparing the travel costs between Wollongong and Taupo, we can see that Wollongong 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. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Wollongong or Taupo?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Wollongong and Taupo, 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.