I have had the pleasure of studying in both Melbourne and Sydney, one of the perks of studying at CQUni. I lived in Sydney first and moved to Melbourne last March. After I moved here, lots of people asked me what are the differences between Sydney and Melbourne. So as an international student, coming from China, here are my comparisons.
City vibe
Sydney: It’s a modern city, but the cost of living are high and it can feel a little bit stressful to live here. People walk so fast! It’s like you go to the gym every day!
Melbourne: The restaurants, the museums, the bars and the markets make Melbourne feel less crazy and more relaxed. People have more laid back attitude (Hey, let’s stop for a while to enjoy the fabulous show of street artist.)
Weather
Sydney: The weather is very nice, I really love Sydney’s sky, it’s amazing! So beautiful and colourful.
Melbourne: I am ‘impressed’ by Melbourne’s weather. You can find four seasons in one day. Like an old Chinese saying, the weather is just like baby’s face and a girl’s mind. You never know what’s gonna happen next.
The weekend
Sydney: Weekend - Bondi beach or the Blue Mountains. Best of both worlds.
Melbourne: Weekend - Party and bar (OK, I am just kidding).
Transport
Sydney: Impressive ferry system, but overall, the transportation situation is quite poor! Driving to city on Monday morning? Good luck!!!
Melbourne: Wide roads and good tram system can take you everywhere.
The biggest?
Sydney: We got Sydney tower! The tallest building in Australia!
Melbourne: We have Chadstone Shopping Center. The biggest shopping centre in Australia!
Who’s got talent?
Sydney: ‘X-Men’ Hugh Jackman!!!
Melbourne: ‘Thor’ Chris Hemsworth!!!
Best beach
Sydney: Sea! Beaches! Manly beach, Bondi beach and Cronulla beach!!
Melbourne: St Kilda Beach
They’re my views but you decide for yourself!
Watch a video on CQUni’s campuses in Melbourne and Sydney.
Enjoyed this? Read about a day in the life of an international student in Sydney or discover Melbourne through walking tours and find out more about the hidden laneways.
