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

Should you visit Sydney or Austin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Austin, 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.

Sydney

Sydney is a glamorous , diverse, and energetic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is a very beautiful destination, too. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Sydney and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Austin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sydney than Austin. Sydney is bigger than Austin, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sydney is better known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Austin is more popular for its food and music. Sydney is more touristy than Austin and is known for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Also, Sydney is famous for the Sydney Opera House. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Sydney different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sydney is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Sydney that are not to be missed. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Austin is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Sydney and Austin.

The nightlife in Sydney is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Sydney is not a live music destination.

In Austin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Sydney is not a live music destination.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Austin 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.

Austin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Beaches?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

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.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Hiking?

Sydney is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Austin?

Sydney is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Sydney is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Families?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Couples?

Sydney is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sydney is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Sydney or Austin Better for Students?

Sydney is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Sydney is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Sydney can get you around easily. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Sydney or Austin a more walkable city?

Sydney is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Sydney is very walkable. 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.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sydney and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sydney than in Austin. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sydney, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sydney than Austin 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 Sydney or Austin?

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.

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

A weekend in Sydney or Austin?

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.

Austin 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.

Five days in Sydney or Austin?

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.

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

A week in Sydney or Austin?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the eccentric destination of Austin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Austin?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Austin, 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 Sydney or Austin?

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 Austin has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Sydney or Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Sydney are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Sydney because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In the summer, Sydney is cooler than Austin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sydney in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Austin averages at about 87°F (30°C)in July.

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Sydney. In January, Sydney usually receives more rain than Austinin July. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sydney or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Sydney during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Sydney is generally cooler than Austinin October. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 19°C (65°F), and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Sydney often gets less sunshine than Austinin October. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually gets more rain in April than Austinin October. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Austin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Austin. Many travelers come to Sydney for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Sydney is around the same temperature as Austin in the winter. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 12°C (53°F) in July, and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C)in January.

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Austin during winter. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Sydney usually receives more rain than Austinin January. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sydney or Austin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Austin. Many visitors come to Sydney in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Sydney is cooler than Austin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sydney in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Austin averages at about 71°F (22°C)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. In the spring, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Austinin April. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets less rain in October than Austinin April. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Sydney