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

Should you visit Sydney or Toronto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Toronto, 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Sydney travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Toronto travel costs.

Sydney and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Toronto?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sydney than Toronto, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. 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. Toronto is well known for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population.

How is Sydney different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Toronto from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Sydney and Toronto 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 Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Toronto is a world class party destination. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Toronto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Beaches?

Sydney is terrific for its beaches. However, Toronto is not a beach destination.

Sydney is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Toronto is not a beach destination.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Sydney is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Toronto 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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Toronto?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Toronto and Sydney.

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.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Toronto. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Is Sydney or Toronto More Beautiful?

Sydney is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Families?

Sydney is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

Toronto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Couples?

Sydney is terrific for romance. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Sydney is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Couples visit Toronto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Toronto is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Sydney. 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.

Toronto is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Is Sydney or Toronto Better for Students?

Sydney and Toronto are first-rate places to visit for 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.

Toronto is a very popular city for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Sydney and Toronto.

Visitors in Sydney can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

Toronto has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

Is Sydney or Toronto a more walkable city?

Sydney and Toronto 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.

Toronto is very walkable. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Toronto?

Both Sydney and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sydney has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Sydney than Toronto. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Toronto. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sydney or Toronto?

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.

Toronto 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 Toronto?

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 Toronto. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Toronto?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Toronto. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sydney and Toronto, we can see that Toronto is more expensive. And not only is Sydney much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sydney is in Pacific and Toronto 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 Sydney would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sydney 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 Toronto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toronto than you might in Sydney.

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Toronto?

Toronto has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Sydney. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Toronto, 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 Toronto?

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

Should I visit Sydney or Toronto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Toronto. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sydney this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Toronto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sydney is around the same temperature as Toronto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sydney in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Toronto averages at about 21°C (70°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toronto. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. In the summer, Sydney often gets less sunshine than Torontoin July. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun.

Sydney receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sydney usually gets more rain in January than Torontoin July. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Toronto in the Autumn?

Both Toronto and Sydney are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, many visitors come to Toronto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In April, Sydney is generally much warmer than Torontoin October. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 19°C (65°F), and Toronto fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during autumn. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Sydney. In April, Sydney usually receives more rain than Torontoin October. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Sydney or Toronto in the Winter?

Both Toronto and Sydney during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sydney in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Toronto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Toronto can be very cold during winter. Sydney is much warmer than Toronto in the winter. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 12°C (53°F) in July, and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Sydney. In the winter, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Torontoin January. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Torontoin January. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sydney or Toronto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Toronto. 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 Toronto because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Sydney is much warmer than Toronto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sydney in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Toronto averages at about 7°C (44°F)in April.

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during spring. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Sydney usually receives more rain than Torontoin April. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Sydney