Boasting a population of more than five million residents, which is about 20% of the entire population of Australia, Sydney is the country’s largest city, and the most visited. Surrounded by impressive beaches, stunning architecture, and numerous iconic attractions, the city is certainly one of the best destinations in the world. Very few travelers dare to avoid this city for other places in the country, and now it’s easy to see why.
However, its gorgeous sights, beaches, attractions, and restaurants come with a price to pay. How expensive is Sydney? Here is a budget guide and tips for visiting this Australian city.
The Cost Of Visiting Sydney, Australia
While the final cost of visiting Sydney depends on vacationers’ styles and budgets, the city is definitely not cheap to visit. Flying to the city is the most expensive part of traveling. So, visitors should shop around and compare different rates before booking a flight to Sydney.
When it comes to accommodation and activities, all budgets and interests are covered. Here is the actual price for visiting Australia’s largest and most famous destination.
The Cost Of Flying To Sydney
Flights to Sidney depend on the dates. There are many airlines to choose from, and when exploring options, vacationers should have a better understanding of the details of different airlines, including their terms.
Booking a flight to Sydney at least 61 days before the actual day of the trip saves up to 35% of the airfare.
If booking at least two months earlier isn't an option for a vacationer, then airfares can range between $2,094 and $2,295, from the USA.
The cheapest month to fly to Sydney from the United States is November. During this month airfares cost an average of $1,645, and the cost of tickets starts at $1,063. Vacationers should avoid December if traveling on a budget since it can be expensive.
- The cost of flying to Sidney: $1,294
- The cheapest month to fly to Sydney: November
- The cost of airfare to Sydney in November from the USA: $1,645, tickets start at $1,6063
While non-stop flights save time for travelers, they can be more expensive.
The Cost of Getting Around Sydney
Sydney boasts an extensive public transportation system, which makes getting around the city straightforward for travelers. There are numerous options to choose from, including public trains, light rail, buses, ferries, taxis, and driving around the city.
These options do more than allow vacationers to explore this beautiful city. They also give them many choices when it comes to accommodation since moving from one destination to another is fast and efficient.
- The cost of getting around by train: $2.46-$6.03 (adult opal card), $3.05-$7.36 (cash price)
- The cost of getting around by bus: $1.53-$3.27 (adult opal card), $1.94-$4.02 (cash price)
- The cost of getting around by ferry: $4.17-$5.21 (adult opal card), $5.13-$6.38 (cash price)
- The cost of getting around by light rail: $1.53-$2.54 (adult opal card), $1.94-$3.05 (cash price)
The Cost Of Accommodation In Sydney
The cost of accommodation depends on where the traveler is staying, the season, and the budget. Dorms in Sydney cost about $24.28 per bed, while a private room goes for about $104. Many hostels offer free internet, and only a few of them serve free breakfast.
A budget hotel starts at $69.38. Vacationers planning to stay somewhere in the heart of the city should set aside double the amount for a budget hotel.
Airbnb costs vary widely, but private rooms start at around $41.63. An entire apartment or home cost an average of $208.
- The average cost of a dorm with between six and eight beds: $24.28
- The average cost of a private room: $104
- The cost of a budget hotel: from $69.38
- The average cost of a private room on Airbnb: $41.63
- The average cost of an entire home or apartment on Airbnb: $208
The Cost Of Food In Sydney
Travelers will find all types of cuisines in Sydney, but BBQ meat, seafood, meat pies, and fish & chips are some of the most popular. Having a meal at a less expensive local restaurant costs about $17.34. The average cost of a three-course meal in Sydney starts at $41.67.
Those planning to cook for themselves can set aside about $63 for grocery shopping every week.
- The average cost of self-cooking: $63 per a week
- The average cost of a meal from a cheap restaurant: $17.34
- The cost of a three-course meal: From $41.67
The Cost Of Activities, Attractions, And Entertainment
The price visitors will pay in exploring the city’s attractions, including entry fees for museums, day tours, and any other expenses that come with sightseeing will depend on their budgets.
- The average cost of sightseeing in Sydney: $38 per person, per day
Tips For Visiting Sydney On A Budget
Buy the adult Opal Card to save on transportation. Getting around Sydney can cost a lot if one depends on paying with cash. Travelers should take the advantage of Sydney’s swift public transportation system and the amazing discounts that come with using Opal Cards.
Get the Sydney multi-attraction pass. Traveling to Sydney during the high season means thicker crowds, and it would be frustrating to stand in long lines to access every attraction.
The Sydney multi-attraction pass allows vacationers to have access to four of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Madame Tussauds Sydney, Sea Life Aquarium, Sydney Tower Eye, and the Wild LIFE Sydney Zoo.
Take advantage of the free walking tours in Sydney. Several free walking tours allow tourists to explore the city's adorable streets.
Instead of staying in a luxury hotel, opt for a hostel. Hostels may not offer the privacy and services that vacationers may be looking for in lavish hotels. But they can save hundreds of dollars, depending on the number of days one is staying in Sydney.
Book flights and hotels in advance. Booking in advance saves a lot of money, allowing tourists to spend less during their trip to Sydney. Sydney is an amazing destination that most people categorize on the expensive side. But visiting the city is definitely doable, even on a budget.