A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Darwin vs. Sydney for Attractions, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Darwin or Sydney?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Darwin or Sydney, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Darwin

Darwin is a authentic, local, and tropical town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Darwin travel costs.

Sydney

Sydney is a glamorous , diverse, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Sydney is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Sydney travel costs.

Darwin and Sydney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Darwin or Sydney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sydney than Darwin, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sydney is more touristy than Darwin and is known for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also home to the Sydney Opera House. Darwin is popular for its outdoor markets and tropical weather.

How is Darwin different from Sydney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Darwin or Sydney?

Sydney is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Sydney are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with iconic and world famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There's also the famous Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Tower Eye.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Darwin. You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.

Is the Food Better in Darwin or Sydney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sydney is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sydney. There are international restaurants offering impressive dishes from around the world. You'll also find some local Australian favorites around town. Seafood is abundant, as are a number of Asian cuisines. Barramundi is a local fish that you'll find on many menus. Oysters, prawns, and John Dory (a local fish) are also popular.

Darwin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Sydney is a must-see party destination. The city is filled with nightclubs and DJ hosted dance parties. There's a huge young crowd that brings together residents, students, and backpackers in a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the best areas for nightlife are Kings Cross, Oxford Street, Surry Hills or Darling Harbour.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Darwin. You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Darwin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Sydney has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's some good snorkeling and diving nearby with a diversity of marine life and interesting ecosystems. Some of the best snorkeling spots are at Palm Beach, Shelly Beach, and Clifton Gardens.

Darwin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Beaches?

Sydney is terrific for the beach. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Sydney are among the best in the world. There are more than 100 beaches near the city with everything from hidden coves to world famous destinations. Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in town and it has all of the tourist sights and activities that you could need. Surfers often head to Bronte Beach, which isn't too far away. Divers and snorkelers love Gordons Bay. Manly is also a nearby suburb with family-friendly beaches that can be reached by ferry.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Darwin. Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Hiking?

Darwin and Sydney are both places where visitors can find superb hiking trails.

Darwin is a popular spot for hiking. In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sydney. The city offers a number of coastal and inland trails that are easily accessible from town. There are short paths as well as multi-day routes not far and pass by stunning landscapes and viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Darwin or Sydney?

Sydney is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Sydney make it a world-class shopping destination. There's a wonderful mix of shopping streets, modern malls, and boutique vendors who sell local fashions. For souvenirs or local art, go to The Rocks, which is not far from Sydney Opera House. The Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade are also popular shopping areas.

Darwin has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Is Darwin or Sydney More Beautiful?

Sydney is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Darwin is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Sydney is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waterfront setting and grand buildings make this a truly beautiful city. It also has a lot of natural beauty with impressive beaches and nice green spaces.

Darwin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Families?

Sydney is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sydney is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has great beaches where kids can learn to surf, zoos and aquariums with local wildlife, and outdoor activities that take advantage of the city's waterfront location. There's everything from whale watching to visiting the Olympic Park, all of which will fascinate kids of all ages.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Darwin. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in town and in the surrounding areas. There are wildlife parks and several national parks in the area like Litchfield National Park. For many families, this is a stop off on there way to Kakadu National Park.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Couples?

Sydney is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Sydney has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a romantic city that's filled with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. There are also award winning restaurants and world class beaches. Wander around the botanical gardens or take a sailing cruise on the harbor. There is an endless supply of romantic activities to choose from.

Darwin is a good town for couples to visit. The beautiful weather means that you can spend most of your time outdoors. Sunset picnics are popular, but for many visitors, it's all about the day trips to nearby parks.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is terrific for backpackers. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sydney. It's popular for its adventure sports, active beaches, and vibrant nightlife. While it's not a particularly cheap city to visit, there are plenty of hostels around town and no shortage of backpackers to hang out with.

Darwin is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels in town that make this an easy place to spend a night or two for backpackers.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Students?

Sydney is terrific for students. However, Darwin is not popular with students.

Sydney is a great destination for students. Students love the energy and plethora of outdoor activities in this beautiful city. Many international students come not only for the excellent universities but also for the diverse environment and many things to do.

Darwin is not popular with students.

Is Darwin or Sydney Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sydney is terrific for its public transit. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Sydney can take you anywhere. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

Darwin has some public transit options. There are public buses around town. There's also a waterfront shuttle.

Is Darwin or Sydney a more walkable city?

Sydney is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Sydney is a very walkable city. The city center and nearby suburbs are relatively easy to walk around. On the western side of the city, the suburbs are much less walkable.

Darwin is a somewhat walkable town. There are biking and walking paths around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Darwin Worth Visiting? and Is Sydney Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sydney or Darwin?

How long in Darwin or Sydney?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sydney than Darwin 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 Sydney.

One day in Darwin or Sydney?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Darwin. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sydney is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Darwin or Sydney?

Darwin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sydney is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Darwin or Sydney?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Darwin. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sydney. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Darwin or Sydney?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Darwin. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sydney is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Darwin or Sydney?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Darwin. When comparing the sizes of Darwin and Sydney, 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 Darwin or Sydney?

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 Darwin or Sydney in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Darwin and Sydney. The summer months attract visitors to Darwin because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sydney this time of year.

In the summer, Darwin is a little warmer than Sydney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Darwin in January average around 29°C (83°F), and Sydney averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. Darwin usually receives less sunshine than Sydney during summer. Darwin gets 173 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the summer. Darwin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Darwin usually receives more rain than Sydney. Darwin gets 437 mm (17.2 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Darwin or Sydney in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Darwin as well as Sydney. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Darwin this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sydney for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Darwin is generally much warmer than Sydney. Daily temperatures in Darwin average around 29°C (84°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Darwin this time of the year. In the autumn, Darwin often gets more sunshine than Sydney. Darwin gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 195 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sydney. Darwin usually gets less rain in April than Sydney. Darwin gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Darwin or Sydney in the Winter?

Both Sydney and Darwin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Darwin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sydney in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Darwin is much warmer than Sydney in the winter. The daily temperature in Darwin averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Sydney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Sydney. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Darwin. Darwin usually receives more sunshine than Sydney during winter. Darwin gets 312 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Darwin usually receives less rain than Sydney. Darwin gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Darwin or Sydney in the Spring?

Both Sydney and Darwin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Darwin in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Sydney for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Darwin is much warmer than Sydney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Darwin in October average around 29°C (85°F), and Sydney averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Darwin. In the spring, Darwin often gets more sunshine than Sydney. Darwin gets 291 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 240 hours of full sun.

Darwin usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sydney. Darwin gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sydney and Darwin