A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yogyakarta vs. Surfers Paradise for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise? 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.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a historical, colorful, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a active, ritzy, and glamourous city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Yogyakarta and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Yogyakarta and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Surfers Paradise has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Surfers Paradise is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Yogyakarta is known for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Yogyakarta and is known for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Yogyakarta is popular for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows.

How is Yogyakarta different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

Yogyakarta is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Yogyakarta has many famous sights for visitors. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

Is the Food Better in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Yogyakarta and Surfers Paradise.

Yogyakarta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

Dining out in Surfers Paradise is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Surfers Paradise is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

Yogyakarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Surfers Paradise is a great choice. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Surfers Paradise is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Yogyakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Yogyakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is renowned for the beach. However, Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Surfers Paradise. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for its Old Town?

Yogyakarta is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Yogyakarta to see the historical old town. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Surfers Paradise is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Surfers Paradise is a good destination for hiking. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Yogyakarta and Surfers Paradise.

Known for shopping, Yogyakarta draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

Surfers Paradise is a world class destination for shoppers. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Surfers Paradise is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yogyakarta. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Surfers Paradise is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Surfers Paradise makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Yogyakarta is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Surfers Paradise is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Yogyakarta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Students?

Yogyakarta is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Yogyakarta. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Surfers Paradise is not popular with students.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Surfers Paradise is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Yogyakarta is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Surfers Paradise has some public transit options. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

Is Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Yogyakarta and Surfers Paradise are good when it comes to walkability.

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.

Surfers Paradise is a somewhat walkable city. There are walking and bike paths around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Yogyakarta Worth Visiting? and Is Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

Both Yogyakarta and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise than in Yogyakarta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Yogyakarta, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise than Yogyakarta 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Yogyakarta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active city of Surfers Paradise, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural city of Yogyakarta. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Surfers Paradise, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

Yogyakarta is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Surfers Paradise, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

Yogyakarta is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Surfers Paradise is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Yogyakarta or Surfers Paradise?

Yogyakarta has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Yogyakarta and Surfers Paradise, 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.