A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Sydney vs. Hobart for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sydney or Hobart?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Hobart, 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 diverse, energetic, and outdoorsy 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hobart

Hobart is a charming, fascinating, and quaint city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Sydney and Hobart: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Hobart?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sydney. Although Sydney and Hobart are both popular with visitors, Sydney has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sydney is popular for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also home to the Sydney Opera House. Hobart is popular for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails.

How is Sydney different from Hobart?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sydney is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hobart. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Sydney and Hobart can be an enjoyable experience.

Dining out in Sydney is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hobart. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Sydney is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hobart. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hobart is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Hobart is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Beaches?

Sydney is renowned for the beache. However, Hobart is not a beach destination.

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.

Hobart is not a beach destination.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Hiking?

Sydney and Hobart are both places where visitors can find high quality hiking trails.

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 go to Hobart for the hiking trails. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Hobart?

Sydney is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hobart. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Families?

Sydney is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Sydney is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Hobart is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Couples?

Sydney is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Sydney is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Hobart is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 backpackers visit Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

Is Sydney or Hobart Better for Students?

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

Sydney is a very popular city 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.

Hobart is not popular with students.

Is Sydney or Hobart 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, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Hobart has a few public transit options. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

Is Sydney or Hobart a more walkable city?

Sydney and Hobart both are high quality 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.

Hobart is very walkable. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Hobart or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Hobart?

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

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hobart. 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 Sydney or Hobart?

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.

Hobart 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 Hobart?

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 Hobart. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Hobart?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Hobart. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Hobart?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Hobart. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Hobart, 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 Hobart?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Sydney or Hobart in the Summer?

Both Hobart and Sydney during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sydney this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hobart for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Sydney is generally a little warmer than Hobart. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 23°C (73°F), and Hobart fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Hobart, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sydney. In the summer, Sydney often gets less sunshine than Hobart. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 259 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually gets more rain in January than Hobart. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Hobart in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Hobart. 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. Also, many visitors come to Hobart in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Sydney is a little warmer than Hobart in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 19°C (65°F) in April, and Hobart fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Hobart during autumn. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 178 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 Hobart. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Sydney or Hobart in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Hobart. Many visitors come to Sydney in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hobart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Sydney is a little warmer than Hobart. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sydney in July average around 12°C (53°F), and Hobart averages at about 9°C (47°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. In the winter, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Hobart. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 152 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets less rain in July than Hobart. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Hobart in the Spring?

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

In October, Sydney is generally a little warmer than Hobart. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 18°C (64°F), and Hobart fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Hobart. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Hobart during spring. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Sydney usually receives more rain than Hobart. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hobart and Sydney