Australia · tool
How much does Sydney cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Sydney trip before you book anything.
Sydney, Australia travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
$80–$130
per day
Hostels, street food, public transit
Accommodation
$30–$50
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic Airbnb room.
Food
$25–$40
Supermarket meals, food courts, casual cafes, and street food.
Transport
$10–$15
Opal card for public transport (trains, buses, ferries).
Activities
$10–$20
Free walking tours, exploring parks, beaches, and free museum days.
Misc
$5–$5
Small incidentals, occasional coffee.
Mid-range
$210–$370
per day
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Accommodation
$100–$180
3-4 star hotel or a comfortable Airbnb apartment.
Food
$60–$100
Mix of casual restaurants, pubs, and mid-range dining.
Transport
$20–$40
Occasional ride-shares or taxis, plus public transport.
Activities
$20–$30
Entry fees to attractions like the Opera House tour, Taronga Zoo, or museums.
Misc
$10–$20
Souvenirs, extra drinks, snacks.
Luxury
$600–$1200
per day
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Accommodation
$300–$600
5-star hotel or luxury serviced apartment with harbor views.
Food
$150–$300
Fine dining, tasting menus, premium bars.
Transport
$50–$100
Private transfers, taxis, premium ferry services.
Activities
$50–$100
Private tours, harbor cruises, premium experiences like helicopter rides.
Misc
$50–$100
High-end shopping, spa treatments, premium beverages.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Contactless payment is king; carry a credit card with no foreign transaction fees for ease.
- •While ATMs are plentiful, using one attached to a major bank is safest. Avoid standalone ATMs in tourist areas.
- •Tipping is not expected in Australia. Service staff are paid a living wage.
- •Public transport on the Opal card offers daily and weekly caps, making it very cost-effective for exploring.
- •Alcohol, especially in bars and restaurants, can be surprisingly expensive compared to other goods.
Plan the rest of your Sydney trip
Trip budgets elsewhere