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

Should you visit Sydney or Leiden?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Leiden, 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Sydney attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Sydney travel costs.

Leiden

Leiden is a scholarly, historic, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Leiden travel costs.

Sydney and Leiden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Leiden?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sydney than Leiden. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sydney is more touristy than Leiden and is popular for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also well known for the Sydney Opera House. Leiden is famous for its many museums and renowned university.

How is Sydney different from Leiden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Sydney has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Leiden can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Sydney and Leiden 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 Leiden. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Leiden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Leiden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Beaches?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Leiden is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Sydney is a very popular vacation 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.

Leiden is not a beach destination.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Hiking?

Sydney is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Leiden is not a hiking destination.

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.

Leiden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Leiden?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Sydney specifically to go shopping. 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.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Sydney or Leiden More Beautiful?

Sydney is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Families?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Sydney is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Leiden is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Couples?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Sydney 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.

Leiden is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sydney, as it is a very popular city for 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Sydney or Leiden Better for Students?

Sydney is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Leiden is a great city to visit as a student. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

Is Sydney or Leiden 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, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Sydney or Leiden a more walkable city?

Sydney and Leiden 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.

Leiden is very walkable. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

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

Should I spend more time in Leiden or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Leiden?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Sydney or Leiden to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Sydney than Leiden because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sydney, and 1-2 days is enough time in Leiden.

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

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 Leiden. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Sydney or Leiden?

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.

Leiden 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 Leiden?

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 Leiden. 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 Leiden?

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 historic destination of Leiden. 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When comparing the travel costs between Sydney and Leiden, 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 Leiden 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 Leiden Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Leiden?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Leiden, 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 Leiden?

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

Should I visit Sydney or Leiden in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Leiden. Most visitors come to Sydney for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Leiden because of the family-friendly experiences.

Sydney is a little warmer than Leiden in the summer. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Leiden fluctuates around 17°C (62°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leiden. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. In the summer, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Leidenin July. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leiden receives 204 hours of full sun.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sydney usually gets more rain in January than Leidenin July. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Leiden in the Autumn?

Both Leiden and Sydney are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Sydney because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Leiden this time of year.

In the autumn, Sydney is much warmer than Leiden. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sydney in April average around 19°C (65°F), and Leiden averages at about 11°C (51°F)in October.

Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Leiden during autumn. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Leiden receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Sydney. In April, Sydney usually receives more rain than Leidenin October. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Sydney or Leiden in the Winter?

Both Leiden and Sydney during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sydney this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Leiden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Leiden. In July, Sydney is generally much warmer than Leidenin January. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 12°C (53°F), and Leiden fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

It's quite sunny in Sydney. In the winter, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Leidenin January. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leiden receives 46 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets less rain in July than Leidenin January. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Leiden in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Leiden. Many travelers come to Sydney for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Sydney is much warmer than Leiden in the spring. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Leiden fluctuates around 8°C (46°F)in April.

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Leiden during spring. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Leiden receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Sydney usually receives more rain than Leidenin April. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Leiden and Sydney