A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sydney vs. Cancun for Attractions, Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Sydney or Cancun?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Cancun, 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 adventurous, glamorous , and diverse 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sydney travel costs.

Cancun

Cancun is a active, adventurous, and wild city. With stunning beauty, Cancun attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Cancun travel costs.

Sydney and Cancun: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Cancun?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sydney than Cancun, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sydney is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Cancun is known for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Cancun is more touristy than Sydney and is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. 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 Sydney different from Cancun?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cancun 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 Cancun?

Sydney is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Cancun 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cancun can be an interesting and educational experience. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

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

Sydney is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cancun 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 Cancun area. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Cancun is a world class party destination. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Resorts?

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

Cancun offers an unforgettable resort vacation. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Sydney is not a resort destination.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Cancun specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

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 Sydney or Cancun Better for Beaches?

Both Sydney and Cancun have terrific beaches worth visiting.

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.

Cancun is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Hiking?

Sydney is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Cancun?

Sydney is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun 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 Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Sydney or Cancun More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Sydney and Cancun.

With stunning beauty, Sydney attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Families?

Sydney and Cancun are both terrific destinations for the whole family.

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.

Cancun is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Couples?

Sydney and Cancun are both terrific to visit as a couple.

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.

Cancun is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cancun 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.

Cancun is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Is Sydney or Cancun Better for Students?

Sydney is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cancun is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Sydney. 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.

Cancun is not popular with students.

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

Sydney is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Sydney has a great public transit system. 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 Cancun, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Is Sydney or Cancun a more walkable city?

Sydney and Cancun both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Sydney is a very walkable destination. 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.

Cancun is very walkable. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cancun or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Cancun?

Both Sydney and Cancun have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sydney has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Sydney than Cancun. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sydney, and 4-7 days is enough time in Cancun.

Couples should spend more time in Sydney than Cancun. 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 Cancun 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 Cancun?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cancun. 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.

A weekend in Sydney or Cancun?

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.

Cancun 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 Sydney or Cancun?

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 Cancun. 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.

A week in Sydney or Cancun?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous destination of Cancun. This city 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Cancun?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Cancun. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Cancun, 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.