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

Should you visit Sydney or Seattle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Seattle, 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seattle

Seattle is a laid-back, bustling, and progressive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Sydney and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Seattle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sydney than Seattle. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sydney is very popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Seattle attracts visitors for its theatre productions and music. Sydney is famous for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. It is also well known for the Sydney Opera House. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies.

How is Sydney different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sydney is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Sydney on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Sydney is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Sydney is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Sydney and Seattle 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 Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for its music scene. However, Sydney is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Sydney is not a live music destination.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Sydney is renowned for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

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 Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Sydney and Seattle are both places where visitors can find superb 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 Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Seattle?

Sydney is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Sydney is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Families?

Sydney is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Couples?

Sydney is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Sydney or Seattle Better for Students?

Sydney is renowned for students. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Sydney is renowned for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Sydney or Seattle a more walkable city?

Sydney and Seattle both are superb 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.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Seattle?

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

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

Because Sydney is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. 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 Seattle?

Because Sydney is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

Sydney is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sydney has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sydney. Because Sydney is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the cultural big city of Seattle. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Seattle?

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

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

Should I visit Sydney or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Seattle. 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, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

Sydney is a little warmer than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sydney usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

Sydney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Sydney usually receives more rain than Seattlein July. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sydney or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Seattle. 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 Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Sydney is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sydney in April average around 19°C (65°F), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C)in October.

In the autumn, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Seattlein October. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sydney usually gets more rain in April than Seattlein October. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Sydney are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Sydney for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In July, Sydney is generally much warmer than Seattlein January. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 12°C (53°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In July, Sydney usually receives less rain than Seattlein January. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sydney or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Sydney during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sydney in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Sydney is much warmer than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C)in April.

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sydney. In the spring, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Seattlein April. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets more rain in October than Seattlein April. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Sydney