A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sydney vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park, 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. 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Sydney travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Sydney and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Sydney Opera House
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sydney. Although Sydney and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Sydney has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sydney is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sydney is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also home to the Sydney Opera House. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Sydney different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Sydney are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

Sydney is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Beaches?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for the beach. However, Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Known for its hiking, Mount Aspiring National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Sydney make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the main draws. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

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.

Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mount Aspiring National Park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for couples.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.


Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney and Mount Aspiring National Park are amazing places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sydney is a very popular city to visit 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.

Many backpackers frequent Mount Aspiring National Park. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is very popular for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Sydney has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.


Is Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Sydney
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sydney is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Sydney is a very walkable city. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Sydney Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sydney than Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Sydney than Mount Aspiring National Park . 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 Mount Aspiring National Park . 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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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.


  • How many days in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sydney 3-7 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Sydney is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sydney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Sydney is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sydney has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

A week in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Sydney is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the undeveloped destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. This national park 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Sydney?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Sydney Prices
    Australia Prices
    Mount Aspiring National Park Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sydney $207
    Mount Aspiring National Park $122

The average daily cost (per person) in Sydney is $207, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $122. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Sydney and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sydney $103
    Mount Aspiring National Park $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sydney $206
    Mount Aspiring National Park $116
Compare Hotels in Sydney and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Sydney


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sydney Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sydney $15
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sydney

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Sydney:


  • Taxi Ride
    $13
  • Taxi to Airport
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sydney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Sydney:

  • Transfer Between Airport & Hotels or Cruise Terminal: $13
  • Sydney Airport to Sydney CBD shared ride seat in vehicle shuttle transfer: $13
  • Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport: Shared Transfer to Sydney CBD: $22
  • Shuttle Transfer from Cruise Ship Terminal at Circular Quay to Sydney Airport: $24
  • Shuttle Transfer from Sydney City Hotel or Cruise Port to Sydney Airport: $24
  • Shuttle Transfer from Sydney Airport to Cruise Ship Terminal at Circular Quay: $25
  • Sydney Arrival Transfer: Airport to City or Overseas Passenger Terminal: $25
  • Transfer from White Bay Cruise Terminal to Sydney Airport: $27
  • Sydney Airport to White Bay Port transfer: $27
  • Sydney Port Private Arrival Transfer: Cruise Port to City: $30
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel or Cruise Port to Sydney Airport: $36
  • Sydney Airport Vip Transfer to city: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Sydney or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Sydney change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Sydney $77
    Mount Aspiring National Park $32
Typical Food Prices in Sydney

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Sydney:


  • Tea
    $2.62
  • Lunch Special
    $9.81
  • Food/Drink Coogie Beach
    $9.81
  • Meat Pies
    $3.27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sydney

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Sydney.

  • City Highlights Walking Food Tour with Harbor Cruise: $45
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $49
  • Roti Making Class with 5-Course Dinner: $49
  • Sydney Harbour Discovery Dinner Cruise Scenic Sights and Buffet: $50
  • Foraging Food Tour Sydney Native Aussie Food: $53
  • Sydney's Little Italy Food Tour: $54
  • Twilight Dinner Cruise on Coral Trekker: $59
  • Harbor Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Twilight Dinner Cruise: $60
  • Fish Market Food Tour: $63
  • Taste of Sydney Fish Market Food Tour: $64
  • Kids Cooking Classes: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sydney $31
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29
Typical Entertainment Prices in Sydney

Here are a few typical costs in Sydney for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Theatre Show
    $29
  • Sydney Tower Visit (for 2)
    $30
  • Blue Mountain Tour/Featherdale Park (for 2)
    $125
  • Powerhouse Museum
    $9.85

Tours and Activities in Sydney

Here are a few actual costs in Sydney for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sydney's Hidden Gems Self Guided City Tour: $1.79
  • Sydney Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.20
  • Sydney Cockatoo Island Escape: Convict Adventure Game: $7.20
  • Sydney Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $8.40
  • Sydney Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Haunted Sydney Self-Guided Audio Ghost Tour: $10
  • Experience Sydney Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • Discover Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Tickets & Tours at Art Gallery of New South Wales: $16
  • Aboriginal Art Exhibition Ticket, Art Gallery of NSW: $16
  • Razor Gangs True Crime Tour: $16
  • Tours & Exhibitions at Art Gallery of New South Wales: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sydney $15
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.07
Typical Alcohol Prices in Sydney

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Sydney:


  • Wine
    $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Sydney

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sydney:

  • Wollongong Bar Crawl Go Out with a Gong: $15
  • Big Night Out Pub Crawl with Local Party Hosts: $32
  • Private Wine Tasting at The Rocks: $46
  • Sydney Cellar Door - Old Vine Expressions Wine Tasting: $47
  • Marrickville Brewery Tour: $78
  • Sydney Beer and Brewery Tour: $103
  • From: Sydney - Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Guided Day Tour: $111
  • Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Tasting Tour: $112
  • Meet the Makers Sydney Native Food & Distillery Tour: $132
  • From Full-Day Hunter Valley Wine Tour & Lunch: $144
  • From Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Day Tour: $145
  • From Hunter Valley Multi-Brewery Tour with Lunch: $148


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

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