A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ise vs. Sydney for Attractions, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Ise or Sydney?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Ise and Sydney can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Ise

Ise is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and overlooked city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Sydney

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

Is there more to do in Ise or Sydney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sydney than Ise, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sydney is more touristy than Ise and is known for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also home to the Sydney Opera House. Ise is popular for its important Shinto shrines and its coastal setting.

How is Ise different from Sydney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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 Ise. While this is an often overlooked part of Japan for tourists, those who venture here will enjoy strolling through the forest and visiting the shrine complex of Ise Jingu.

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

Both Ise and Sydney offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ise. You'll find some of Japan's best seafood around town and there are many local delicacies. Head to the downtown area around Iseshi Station to find a high concentration of places. One local specialty is the Japanese spiny lobster (also known as the Ise lobster).

Sydney has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Ise is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Sydney is a world class 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.

Ise doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most visitors don't stay long enough to take in the nightlife, which is limited.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ise is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Sydney. 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.

Ise is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Beaches?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Sydney is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Ise offers a nice beach destination. There are several nice and sandy beaches in the area that make for a nice break from the sightseeing.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Hiking?

Sydney is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Ise is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Ise is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ise or Sydney?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Ise has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a shopping street in town with many of the shops housed in traditional buildings, giving the area a nice character.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Families?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sydney is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Ise offers lots of family activities. The Ise Jingu Shrine complex is large and sprawling, and has the feel of a park. The kids will likely find visiting all of the temples tedious, but the forest is peaceful and the setting is beautiful.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Couples?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Sydney is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Ise is a good city for couples to visit. This is an off-the-beaten path destination that is far more than a shrine - it's a complex of shrines. It's spread out over a large space and filled with forest and peaceful walks that couples will enjoy.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ise. It's off the radar for many backpackers, but those that make it here will find a couple of hostels and affordable accommodation options.

Is Ise or Sydney Better for Students?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for students. However, Ise is not popular with students.

Sydney is a very popular city 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.

Ise is not popular with students.

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

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Sydney has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

While Ise offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The CAN Bus is a tourist bus that connects the train stations to the main attractions and runs every half hour.

Is Ise or Sydney a more walkable city?

Sydney is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Ise is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Ise is a somewhat walkable city. There are walking paths through the complex that connect the shrines, but some of the distances can be significant.

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

Should I spend more time in Sydney or Ise?

How long in Ise or Sydney?

Both Ise 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 Ise. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ise, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sydney.

Families should spend more time in Sydney than Ise. 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 Ise. 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 Ise 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 Ise or Sydney?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ise. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

When visiting Sydney, people usually allow for lots of time. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Ise or Sydney?

Ise 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.

Many people visit Sydney for a weekend. When visiting Sydney, people usually allow for lots of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Ise or Sydney?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ise. 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.

When visiting Sydney, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Ise or Sydney?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the off-the-beaten-path destination of Ise. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sydney, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in Japan, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ise and Sydney, we can see that Sydney is more expensive. And not only is Ise much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ise is in Asia and Sydney 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 Ise would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ise 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 Ise.

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

Which is Bigger, Ise or Sydney?

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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Sydney is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Ise has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Ise or Sydney in the Summer?

Both Sydney and Ise are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ise for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sydney because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ise is a little warmer than Sydney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ise in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Sydney averages at about 23°C (73°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Sydney. Ise usually receives less sunshine than Sydney during summer. Ise gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sydney. It's quite rainy in Ise. In July, Ise usually receives more rain than Sydneyin January. Ise gets 219 mm (8.6 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ise or Sydney in the Autumn?

Both Sydney and Ise during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Ise because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sydney this time of year.

In October, Ise is generally around the same temperature as Sydneyin April. Daily temperatures in Ise average around 17°C (63°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Ise often gets less sunshine than Sydneyin April. Ise gets 160 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 195 hours of full sun.

Sydney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ise. Ise usually gets more rain in October than Sydneyin April. Ise gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ise or Sydney in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ise and Sydney. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ise this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sydney for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Ise in the winter. Ise is much colder than Sydney in the winter. The daily temperature in Ise averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Sydney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. Ise usually receives less sunshine than Sydney during winter. Ise gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ise usually receives less rain than Sydneyin July. Ise gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ise or Sydney in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ise as well as Sydney. Many travelers come to Ise for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Sydney in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ise is cooler than Sydney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ise in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Sydney averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. In the spring, Ise often gets less sunshine than Sydneyin October. Ise gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 240 hours of full sun.

Ise receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ise usually gets more rain in April than Sydneyin October. Ise gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sydney and Ise