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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kanchanaburi and Sydney. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a informative, educational, and reflective town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kanchanaburi travel costs.

Sydney

Sydney is a energetic, outdoorsy, and adventurous 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sydney travel costs.

Kanchanaburi and Sydney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sydney than Kanchanaburi, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kanchanaburi is popular for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Sydney is popular for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also home to the Sydney Opera House.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Sydney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Sydney are world-renowned. 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.

Kanchanaburi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

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

Sydney is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Sydney has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kanchanaburi area. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Sydney has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Kanchanaburi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Beaches?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for the beach. However, Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Sydney offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Hiking?

Sydney is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

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.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Sydney draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Kanchanaburi to go shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney More Beautiful?

Sydney is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Families?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sydney is very family-friendly. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Couples?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Sydney is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Sydney is extremely popular for backpackers. 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 budget travelers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney Better for Students?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

Sydney is a very popular place to visit 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.

Kanchanaburi is not popular with students.

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

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Sydney is top-notch. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

You'll find some public transit in Kanchanaburi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Is Kanchanaburi or Sydney a more walkable city?

Sydney is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

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

Should I spend more time in Sydney or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

Both Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kanchanaburi, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sydney.

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

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

Each neighborhood in Sydney has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

Kanchanaburi 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 fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

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

Each neighborhood in Sydney has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the reflective destination of Kanchanaburi. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sydney is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Kanchanaburi. When comparing the sizes of Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi or Sydney?

Sydney has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kanchanaburi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Sydney in the Summer?

Both Sydney and Kanchanaburi during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Sydney for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Kanchanaburi is a little warmer than Sydney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kanchanaburi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Sydney averages at about 23°C (73°F)in January.

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets less sunshine than Sydneyin January. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 236 hours of full sun.

Sydney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in July than Sydneyin January. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Sydney in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Sydney. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sydney because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Sydneyin April. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 28°C (82°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sydney during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Sydneyin April. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Sydney in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Sydney. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sydney this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Sydneyin July. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 208 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Sydneyin July. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Sydney in the Spring?

Both Sydney and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Sydney for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

The heat can be very extreme in Kanchanaburi. In the spring, Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Sydney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kanchanaburi in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Sydney averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Sydney. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Sydney during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kanchanaburi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sydneyin October. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May.

Typical Weather for Sydney and Kanchanaburi