Newcastle is a vibrant city known for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Newcastle and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Newcastle?
You should plan to spend around $116 (AU$179) per day on your vacation in Newcastle. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $61 (AU$94) on meals
- $8.31 (AU$13) on local transportation
- $89 (AU$137) on hotels
A one week trip to Newcastle for two people costs, on average, $1,621 (AU$2,506). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$810
AU$1,253
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,621
AU$2,506
-
One Month
Per person
$3,473
AU$5,370
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,621
AU$2,506
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$3,241
AU$5,012
-
One Month
For a couple
$6,946
AU$10,740
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Newcastle cost?
A one week trip to Newcastle usually costs around $810 (AU$1,253) for one person and $1,621 (AU$2,506) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Newcastle on average costs around $1,621 (AU$2,506) for one person and $3,241 (AU$5,012) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Newcastle will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Newcastle on average costs around $3,473 (AU$5,370) for one person and $6,946 (AU$10,740) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Newcastle expensive to visit?
Newcastle is a small yet captivating city that lures visitors with differing travel styles, spending levels, and budgetary preferences. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Newcastle can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $54 (AU$81) per day, mid-range travelers spend $119 (AU$179) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $224 (AU$338) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Newcastle.
Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Newcastle is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in the Pacific for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Paihia, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Sydney.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Newcastle Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Newcastle?
The average Newcastle trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Newcastle travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Newcastle cost?
Newcastle on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$19
(AU$30)
|
$44
(AU$69)
|
$85
(AU$131)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$4
(AU$5.63)
|
$8
(AU$13)
|
$16
(AU$25)
|
|
Food 2
|
$27
(AU$41)
|
$61
(AU$94)
|
$116
(AU$179)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$7
(AU$10)
|
$15
(AU$24)
|
$29
(AU$45)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-7
(AU$3-10)
|
$5-15
(AU$8-24)
|
$10-29
(AU$15-45)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your travel expenses is important. While many assume they can visit Newcastle on a tight budget, the truth is that most people don't enjoy traveling that way. Think about what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer staying in resorts or hostels? Do you love exploring sights and attractions, or dining out? Your preferences will directly impact your budget and travel plans.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $54 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Thankfully, Newcastle is filled with plenty of hostels, such as Backpackers Newcastle. Staying in these hostels means you can enjoy low-cost dorm accommodation and a fun social atmosphere, although amenities may be basic. Food is a standout attraction for all visitors to Newcastle, but those on a budget might rely on street food or cook in their hostels, which could mean less exposure to the fantastic local dishes.
So, are you average?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Most visitors to Newcastle will want to visit the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $119 per person, per day.
The range of hotels and vacation rentals in Newcastle is impressive. If you're traveling with others, sharing your hotel with a partner, friend, or kids allows you to split the costs and save money. Families will want to find hotels and restaurants that accommodate children. Junction Hotel Newcastle is a solid choice for families, while The Lucky Hotel also offers great options. For additional family and couple-friendly hotels, refer to our hotel guide for Newcastle here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $224 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the city, a luxury budget will be necessary. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Hunter Valley Small Group Luxury Wine Tasting Tour from Sydney - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Newcastle
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Newcastle can be very surprising. Some hotels have much higher price tags than others, and in turn offer higher levels of luxury and more amenities. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. The average price for a hotel room in Newcastle in the off-season is $107, but in the peak summer travel season it will average around $200. In general, you can expect hotel prices in Newcastle to range from $70 to $327. Hostels are typically much cheaper, especially if you stay in a dorm. Also, note that the average hotel price is not always what travelers will pay (see below). You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too, along with taking advantage of sale prices or special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Newcastle for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $89 (AU$137). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $44 (AU$69) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Newcastle? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Newcastle include:
- Junction Hotel Newcastle starting at $134
- The Lucky Hotel starting at $108
- Merewether Motel starting at $80
- The Burwood Inn starting at $64
- Elizabeth Motor Inn starting at $101
Newcastle offers a good public transit system, so staying farther from the city might save you on accommodation, though the additional cost and time of commuting can add up.
If you plan your trip for the shoulder or low season and avoid summer, you'll enjoy reduced accommodation costs and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Newcastle
Public transit in Newcastle is reliable and reaches key landmarks. There's both a light rail system and a bus system. For a budget-friendly way to travel, public transportation is ideal, provided it's near where you need to go. Taxis and rideshares are also easy to find.
You'll find that Newcastle is quite walkable in specific locations, making it easier to visit the sights. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $8.31 (AU$13) per person, per day, on local transportation in Newcastle. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Newcastle is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$8.31
AU$13
If you're driving, make sure your hotel has convenient parking.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Private Transfer from Newcastle City Hotels to Newcastle Port for $28 details
- Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle city hotels for $28 details
- Private Transfer from Newcastle Port to Newcastle Airport (NTL) for $29 details
How much does it cost to go to Newcastle? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Newcastle will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Newcastle
In Newcastle, the food is fantastic, and you should definitely take the opportunity to enjoy all the local flavors. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Newcastle can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Newcastle is $61 (AU$94) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$61
AU$94
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Newcastle is around $62 (AU$94) per person, with previous travelers spending from $27 to $119. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Newcastle are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $19
- Lunch: $9 to $25
- Dinner: $19 to $44
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
Like any big city, you'll find a variety of restaurants in Newcastle. If you're really on a tight budget, fast food options abound and are likely to be the cheapest available food. You can also find affordable pizza and sandwiches around town. Other options, if you're willing to spend more money, include seafood, Chinese, and Thai, among many other things. There are also plenty of bars where you can grab a drink, and some good clubs with dancing and drinks.
Many of the city's restaurants are located along either Beaumont Street in Hamilton or Darby Street in Cooks Hill. There are also many cafes in these areas where you can grab a quick bite to eat or a coffee.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
Bring a water bottle to avoid frequent drink purchases. It's also a sustainable choice.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Newcastle
Visitors find Newcastle irresistible, especially for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Newcastle typically cost an average of $15 (AU$24) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$15
AU$24
There are several major landmarks in Newcastle. The Christ Church Cathedral offers excellent views of the area from its top. Queen's Wharf Tower also has great views
If you're interested in the area's history then Fort Scratchley has a military museum that is well done. The fort is open to the public and there are views to the north of town. Newcastle Region Art Gallery has a great collection of local art and several traveling exhibits.
King Edward Park is a great place to enjoy a picnic with nice views of the ocean.
Popular beaches in Newcastle include Bar Beach, Redhead Beach, and Nobbys Beach. Bar Beach is considered one of the best but it can get crowded during peak times. Redhead Beach is a little further out and Nobbys Beach is a great place to swim.
If you're visiting Newcastle during the warm months then you must take a swim in the ocean baths. Options include Newcastle Ocean Baths, Merewether Ocean Baths, and the Bogey Hole.
If you're really looking to experience the community, buy tickets to one of the sporting events, as most locals are avid sports fans. Consider going to watch the Newcastle Knights rugby team, or you could find tickets to football (soccer), ice hockey or even a netball game.
Popular festivals in Newcastle include the Mattara Festival, This is Not Art Festival, Surfest, The Shoot Out, Carols by Candlelight, and Cultural Stomp.
Museums and Attractions:
Museums and landmarks are a major reason why Newcastle attracts so many visitors. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.
Beaches:
Countless visitors arrive in Newcastle to chill out by the beach. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.
Shopping:
Make sure to check out the shopping here, as it's a fun experience. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.
A nice way to explore destinations in Newcastle is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 3-Hour Hunter Valley Scenic Helicopter Tour Including 3-Course Lunch from Cessnock for $267 details
- Newcastle Half-Day Bike Tour with Lunch for $92 details
- Hunter Valley Romantic Bubbly Breakfast Helicopter Tour from Cessnock for $204 details
Nightlife Budget in Newcastle
Active and entertaining, the nightlife in Newcastle is a hit with visitors who love spending time at local bars, clubs, and parties. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $10 (AU$16) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Newcastle per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$10
AU$16
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Enjoy the nightlife, but stay cautious, especially if you're drinking. Thieves or criminals may target you, so stay close to trusted friends and avoid wandering off alone.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Newcastle. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Tulloch Wines Hunter Heroes Wine Tasting with Local Cheese & Charcuterie Board for $33 details
- Hop Hunter Brewery Tour - Full Day for $148 details
- Half Day Wine Tour with Light Lunch at Hunter Valley for $109 details
Travel cost data last updated: Sep 20, 2024
Traveling in Newcastle
Merewether Beach, Newcastle, NSW (Tourism Australia0
Newcastle is 150 kilometers north of Sydney in New South Wales. It is also the second largest city in the state, and serves as a central point to explore the area's beaches, wineries, and beautiful natural landscape. North of the city is Stockton beach, which has many miles of isolated, beautiful beaches, stretching all the way up to Nelson Bay. The wineries are inland to the west and have some of Australia's finest wine which you can taste. If you want to see rainforests, you can head northwest to Barrington Tops National Park, which has great rainforests and freshwater streams. You may even get to see a platypus. The city also has the country's oldest sea port. In the past the city's economy was centered around the steel industry, but today the University of Newcastle is one of the area's most important employers.
Newcastle has an oceanic/humid subtropical climate. The weather is similar to the rest of central and northern New South Wales with summers that are warm and winters that are mild. Rains are heaviest during the late fall and early winter months.
Neighborhoods & Around
As a large metropolitan area, there are many suburbs and neighborhoods in Newcastle. The city is located on the southern bank of the Hunter River mouth. There is a green belt to the west of the city that protects the area's plant and wildlife. The town of Stockton is opposite central Newcastle and is linked by ferry.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.