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

Should you visit Sydney or Faro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Faro, 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. Sydney is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Sydney travel costs.

Faro

Faro is a active, popular, and busy resort town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Faro travel costs.

Sydney and Faro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Faro?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sydney than Faro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sydney is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Faro is more popular for its resorts and historical sights. Sydney is well known for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Also, Sydney is famous for the Sydney Opera House. Faro is well known for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Sydney different from Faro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Sydney from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sydney is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Faro has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Resorts?

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

Faro offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Sydney is not a resort destination.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Sydney and Faro.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Beaches?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for the beach.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Faro. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for its Old Town?

Faro is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Sydney does not have a historic old town.

Faro offers a nice historic old town area. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Sydney does not have a historic old town.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Hiking?

Sydney is great for hiking. However, Faro is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sydney for the hiking trails. 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.

Faro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Faro?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Sydney. 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.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Sydney or Faro More Beautiful?

Sydney is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Sydney is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.

Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Families?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-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.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Couples?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Faro is a good city to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Is Sydney or Faro Better for Students?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro 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.

Faro is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Sydney or Faro a more walkable city?

Sydney is great for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Faro or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Faro?

In either Sydney or Faro, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sydney than Faro because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sydney, and 2-5 days is enough time in Faro.

Families should spend more time in Sydney than Faro. 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 Faro. 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 Faro 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 Faro?

Sydney is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Faro. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sydney or Faro?

Sydney is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Faro 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 Faro?

Sydney is a outdoorsy big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Faro?

Sydney is a diverse city where you can fill many days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the popular destination of Faro. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Sydney and Faro, we can see that Sydney is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Sydney is in Pacific and Faro is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Faro?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Faro, 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 Faro?

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

Should I visit Sydney or Faro in the Summer?

Both Faro and Sydney during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Sydney because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Faro this time of year.

In the summer, Sydney is cooler than Faro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sydney in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Faro averages at about 25°C (78°F)in July.

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sydney. In the summer, Sydney often gets less sunshine than Faroin July. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 374 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually gets more rain in January than Faroin July. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Faro receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Faro in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Faro. 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. Also, many travelers come to Faro for the shopping scene.

In April, Sydney is generally around the same temperature as Faroin October. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 19°C (65°F), and Faro fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. Sydney usually receives less sunshine than Faro during autumn. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sydney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Sydney usually receives more rain than Faroin October. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Faro receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Sydney or Faro in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Faro. Many travelers come to Sydney for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Faro in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Sydney is around the same temperature as Faro in the winter. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 12°C (53°F) in July, and Faro fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. In the winter, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Faroin January. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 161 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets less rain in July than Faroin January. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Faro receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Faro in the Spring?

Both Faro and Sydney are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Sydney in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Faro for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Sydney is around the same temperature as Faro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sydney in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Faro averages at about 17°C (62°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Faro. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Faro during spring. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 248 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Sydney usually receives more rain than Faroin April. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Faro receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Faro and Sydney