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

Should you visit Phuket or Sydney?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket 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.

Phuket

Phuket is a activity-filled, energetic, and party-hard resort island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food.

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 this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Phuket and Sydney: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Sydney?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sydney than Phuket, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sydney is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Phuket is known for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Phuket is more touristy than Sydney and is known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. 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 Phuket different from Sydney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sydney is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Phuket is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Phuket or Sydney has a better nightlife scene.

Phuket has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

Sydney is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Resorts?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Sydney is not a resort destination.

Phuket offers an unforgettable resort vacation. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Sydney is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Phuket to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

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.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Beaches?

Both Phuket and Sydney have amazing beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Phuket are among the best in the world. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

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.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Hiking?

Sydney is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket 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.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Sydney?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket 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.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Families?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Couples?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options 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.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Sydney Better for Students?

Sydney is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Phuket 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.

Phuket is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

While Phuket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

Is Phuket or Sydney a more walkable city?

Sydney is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket 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.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable resort island. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Sydney or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Sydney?

Both Phuket and Sydney have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sydney has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sydney than Phuket. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Phuket. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Phuket or Sydney?

Phuket 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.

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 Phuket or Sydney?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 Phuket or Sydney?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the party-hard destination of Phuket. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, 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 Phuket and Sydney, we can see that Sydney is more expensive. And not only is Phuket much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Phuket 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 Phuket would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Phuket 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 Phuket.

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Sydney?

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

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

Should I visit Phuket or Sydney in the Summer?

Both Sydney and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, 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, Phuket is a little warmer than Sydney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phuket in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Sydney averages at about 23°C (73°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Sydney. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives less sunshine than Sydney during summer. Phuket gets 206 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 Phuket. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Sydneyin January. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phuket or Sydney in the Autumn?

Both Sydney and Phuket during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, 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 October, Phuket is generally a little warmer than Sydneyin April. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 27°C (81°F), and Sydney fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sydneyin April. Phuket gets 181 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 Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Sydneyin April. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Phuket. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Sydney in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Sydney. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sydney in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Phuket is much warmer than Sydney in the winter. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°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. In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Sydney during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Sydney receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Sydneyin July. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Sydney in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Sydney. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Sydney for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Phuket is much warmer than Sydney. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phuket in April average around 29°C (84°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. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the spring, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sydneyin October. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sydney receives 240 hours of full sun.

Phuket receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket usually gets more rain in April than Sydneyin October. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Sydney receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Sydney and Phuket