Australia is often seen as an expensive travel destination, but the truth is you can explore Australia on a budget if you choose the right cities and plan smartly. Beyond Sydney’s high prices, there are many cities across the country that offer affordable accommodation, free attractions, cheap food options, and great public transport.
1. Adelaide
Adelaide is one of Australia’s most affordable capital cities, known for its relaxed vibe, wine regions, and cultural festivals. The city is compact, easy to explore on foot, and offers plenty of free museums and public spaces.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Accommodation and food prices are lower compared to Sydney and Melbourne, public transport is affordable, and many attractions like Adelaide Central Market and art galleries are free.
2. Hobart
Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, combines history, nature, and local culture in a small, walkable city. It’s perfect for travelers who love cool weather, scenic landscapes, and slower travel.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Lower accommodation costs, cheap local food markets, and free nature attractions such as Mount Wellington make Hobart ideal for budget travel.
3. Melbourne
Melbourne is known for its coffee culture, street art, and creative atmosphere. Despite being a major city, it offers plenty of budget experiences for travelers.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Free trams in the city center, free museums and galleries, and a wide range of affordable eateries make it easier to control spending while still enjoying a big city experience.
4. Perth
Perth is a sunny city on Australia’s west coast with beautiful beaches, parks, and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s less crowded than east-coast cities and perfect for outdoor lovers.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Compared to Sydney, accommodation can be cheaper, beaches are free, and outdoor activities like cycling, picnics, and coastal walks cost nothing.
5. Brisbane
Brisbane offers warm weather year-round, river views, and easy access to nearby destinations like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. The city feels modern but laid-back.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Free attractions like South Bank, affordable public transport, and a wide range of budget hostels and eateries make Brisbane a smart choice for travelers.
6. Townsville
Townsville is a tropical city in Queensland that often gets overlooked by tourists, making it cheaper and less crowded. It’s also the gateway to Magnetic Island.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Lower accommodation prices, free waterfront areas, and affordable ferries to nearby islands help travelers save money while enjoying tropical scenery.
7. Launceston
Launceston is a charming city in northern Tasmania surrounded by vineyards, rivers, and national parks. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy nature and small-town charm.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Accommodation is cheaper than in major cities, food prices are reasonable, and many nearby natural attractions, like Cataract Gorge, are free to visit.
8. Cairns
Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, making it one of Australia’s top nature destinations. Despite its popularity, it remains budget-friendly.
Why it’s budget-friendly: The city offers many budget hostels, free attractions like the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, and affordable tour options if booked wisely.
Why These Cities Are Budget-Friendly
• Lower Accommodation Costs
Compared to Sydney, these cities offer more affordable hostels, budget hotels, and short-term rentals, especially outside the city center.
• Many Free Attractions
From beaches and city parks to museums, galleries, and scenic walks, these cities provide plenty of free activities that don’t require expensive entrance fees.
• Affordable Public Transportation
Most of these cities have reliable public transport systems, free tram zones, or compact layouts that make walking and cycling easy and cost-effective.
• Cheaper Food Options
Local markets, food courts, casual eateries, and supermarkets make it easy to enjoy good food without spending too much on dining.
• Less Tourist Crowds
With fewer tourists than major hotspots, prices for accommodation, tours, and daily expenses tend to be more reasonable.
• Strong Nature-Based Experiences
Many top attractions are natural (beaches, rivers, rainforests, and parks) allowing travelers to enjoy Australia’s beauty without high costs.
• Good Budget Travel Infrastructure
These cities are well-equipped with hostels, budget tours, free city facilities, and traveler-friendly services that help keep expenses low.
How to Move Between Cities & Can You Visit Them All in One Trip?
• Flying Is the Most Efficient Option
Australia is very large, so flying is the fastest and often the cheapest way to move between cities. Budget airlines frequently offer affordable domestic flights, especially if booked in advance.
• Train Travel Is Limited but Scenic
Trains work well for certain routes, such as Melbourne–Adelaide or Brisbane–Townsville, but they are slower and sometimes more expensive than flying.
• Buses for Budget Travelers
Long-distance buses are available and can be cheaper than flights, but travel times are long due to Australia’s size. Best for travelers with flexible schedules.
• Car Rental for Regional Areas
Renting a car is ideal for exploring places like Tasmania (Hobart & Launceston) or coastal areas near Cairns and Perth. It’s cost-effective if you’re traveling with others.
• Can You Visit All These Cities in One Trip?
Yes, but it’s not recommended for a short trip. A realistic plan would require 3–5 weeks, combining flights with regional road trips. For shorter trips, it’s better to choose 2–4 cities within the same region (for example, Melbourne–Adelaide or Brisbane–Cairns).
What to Prepare Before Visiting Australia on a Budget
To keep your trip affordable, preparation is key. Here’s what you should plan before you go:
1. Accommodation Strategy
Book hostels, budget hotels, or short-term rentals early—especially during peak seasons. Staying slightly outside city centers can significantly reduce costs.
2. Transportation Planning
Research public transport passes and free tram zones. In some cities, walking and cycling are the cheapest ways to explore.
3. Food Budgeting
Mix eating out with groceries. Local markets and supermarkets are much cheaper than dining at tourist restaurants every day.
4. Attraction Research
Look for free museums, city tours, beaches, and parks. Many Australian cities offer excellent free experiences.
5. Internet & Connectivity
Having reliable internet helps with navigation, booking transport, and finding deals. Using an eSIM can be more affordable than roaming. Try 500MB of global data from Eskimo eSIM for free that you can use in 109 countries, including Australia.
6. Season & Weather Awareness
Traveling during shoulder or low seasons can drastically reduce accommodation and flight costs.
FAQs
Is Australia suitable for first-time budget travelers?
Yes. Australia is very beginner-friendly with clear signage, English-speaking locals, safe cities, and reliable infrastructure.
What is the average daily budget for traveling in these cities?
A budget traveler can generally spend AUD 60–100 per day, depending on accommodation type, food choices, and activities. Staying in hostels, using public transport, and focusing on free attractions helps keep costs low.
When is the cheapest time to visit Australia?
The cheapest periods are usually during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), when flight prices are lower, accommodation is more affordable, and popular attractions are less crowded.
Is tipping expected in Australia?
No. Tipping is not mandatory in Australia. Service charges are usually included, and tipping is optional if you receive exceptional service.
