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

Should you visit Sydney or Tauranga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Tauranga, 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 outdoorsy, adventurous, and glamorous 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. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Sydney travel costs.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a nature-filled, coastal, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, Tauranga attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Tauranga travel costs.

Sydney and Tauranga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Tauranga?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sydney than Tauranga. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. 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. Tauranga is famous for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails.

How is Sydney different from Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sydney is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.

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

Sydney is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

People head to Sydney just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tauranga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Sydney has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Tauranga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Beaches?

Sydney is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Sydney. 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.

Tauranga is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

Sydney and Tauranga are both places where visitors can find very good 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 Tauranga for the hiking trails. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Tauranga?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Tauranga. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Is Sydney or Tauranga More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Sydney and Tauranga.

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.

Tauranga is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Families?

Sydney and Tauranga are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

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.

Tauranga is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Couples?

Sydney is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Sydney makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Tauranga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney and Tauranga are fantastic 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 Tauranga. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

Is Sydney or Tauranga Better for Students?

Sydney is a world-class destination for students. However, Tauranga is not popular with students.

Many students frequent 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.

Tauranga is not popular with students.

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

Sydney is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Sydney can get you around easily. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

Tauranga has some public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

Is Sydney or Tauranga a more walkable city?

Sydney is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Tauranga is somewhat walkable. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Tauranga?

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

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

Sydney is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Tauranga. 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 Tauranga?

Sydney is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Tauranga 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 Tauranga?

Sydney is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sydney, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Sydney is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sydney has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Tauranga. This town 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Tauranga?

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