A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sydney vs. Tulum for Attractions, Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Sydney or Tulum?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Tulum, 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Sydney is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Sydney travel costs.

Tulum

Tulum is a ancient, archeological, and tropical town. With stunning beauty, Tulum attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Tulum travel costs.

Sydney and Tulum: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Tulum?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sydney than Tulum, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sydney is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Tulum is more popular for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Tulum is more touristy than Sydney and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Sydney is well known for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Also, Sydney is famous for the Sydney Opera House.

How is Sydney different from Tulum?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Sydney or Tulum.

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.

Travelers visit Tulum from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Sydney and Tulum 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 Tulum. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Sydney and Tulum.

The nightlife in Sydney is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Tulum is a world class party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Resorts?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Sydney is not a resort destination.

Tulum offers an unforgettable resort vacation. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Sydney is not a resort destination.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Tulum specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

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.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Beaches?

Both Sydney and Tulum have first-rate beaches worth visiting.

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.

Tulum is considered to be a world-class beach destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Hiking?

Sydney and Tulum 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 Tulum for the hiking trails. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Tulum?

Sydney is terrific for shopping. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Sydney is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Tulum is well-known for its shopping. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Is Sydney or Tulum More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Sydney and Tulum.

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.

Tulum is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Families?

Sydney is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tulum is very family-friendly. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Couples?

Sydney and Tulum are both first-rate to visit as a couple.

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.

Tulum is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is terrific for backpackers. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sydney is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Many backpackers visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Is Sydney or Tulum Better for Students?

Sydney is terrific for students. However, Tulum 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.

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Sydney can take you anywhere. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

Tulum has some public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Is Sydney or Tulum a more walkable city?

Sydney and Tulum 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.

Tulum is very walkable. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Tulum or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Tulum?

In either Sydney or Tulum, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sydney than Tulum because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sydney, and 3-5 days is enough time in Tulum.

Families should spend more time in Sydney than Tulum. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sydney than Tulum 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 Tulum?

Each neighborhood in Sydney has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Tulum. 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 Tulum?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sydney. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Tulum 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.

Five days in Sydney or Tulum?

Sydney is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Sydney has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

Each neighborhood in Sydney has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the archeological destination of Tulum. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, and The Best Historical Tours in Mexico.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Tulum?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Tulum, 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 Tulum?

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

Should I visit Sydney or Tulum in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Tulum. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sydney this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sydney is cooler than Tulum. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sydney in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Tulum averages at about 28°C (83°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sydney usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tulum during summer. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Tulum receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sydney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Sydney usually receives less rain than Tulumin July. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sydney or Tulum in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Tulum. 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. Additionally, many visitors come to Tulum in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Sydney is generally cooler than Tulumin October. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 19°C (65°F), and Tulum fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. In the autumn, Sydney often gets less sunshine than Tulumin October. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tulum receives 216 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tulum. Sydney receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sydney usually gets less rain in April than Tulumin October. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Sydney or Tulum in the Winter?

Both Tulum and Sydney are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Sydney in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Sydney is much colder than Tulum in the winter. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 12°C (53°F) in July, and Tulum fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Tulum. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tulum during winter. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Tulum receives 213 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Sydney usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tulumin January. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sydney or Tulum in the Spring?

Both Tulum and Sydney during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Sydney for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Sydney is much colder than Tulum. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sydney in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Tulum averages at about 27°C (81°F)in April.

In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sydney. In the spring, Sydney often gets less sunshine than Tulumin April. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tulum receives 273 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets more rain in October than Tulumin April. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tulum receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Typical Weather for Tulum and Sydney