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25 Best Things To Do In Sydney (Australia)

Sydney is Australia’s answer to New York : a cosmopolitan a hive of activity, which never sleeps, but also boasts gorgeous beaches, fantastic weather and mild winters. Sydney has over 4 million residents, making it Australia’s largest city, and is also the most touristed destination in the country, attracting over 32 million visitors per year.

The city is very multicultural, so the food on offer is delicious, and it’s also a fantastic shopping destination. The various suburbs have very different atmospheres, so you’ll find something for everyone in this tourist paradise.

Lets explore the best things to do in Sydney :

1. See a show at the Opera House

The Opera House may be the first thing to come to mind when you think about Sydney, or indeed Australia.

The world-heritage listed building is stunning in person, and it is illuminated beautifully at night.

There’s always plenty of events and shows going on in the Opera House and the surrounding area, and you can also tour the opera house or enjoy a tasty meal inside the premises.

Recommended tour : The Sydney Opera House Tour

2. Stroll Darling Harbour

The Darling Harbour is a popular recreational complex adjacent to Sydney’s city centre, with breathtaking river views and plenty to keep you well-fed and entertained.

There’s a massive variety of attractions in the Harbour, but some favorites include the serene Chinese Garden of Friendship and its lovely teahouse, the Carousel, the National Maritime Museum, and the beautiful Dockside Pavilion.

There’s also a vibrant nightlife scene in the harbour, the excellent Harbourside Shopping Centre (including laser tag), an aquarium, a Madam Tussauds and much more.

It’s best to dedicate at least a day to the Harbour to see as much as possible of this Sydney icon.

3. Get a local perspective with a free walking tour

The “I’m Free” walking tours are a great way to get to know Sydney.

Guided by passionate volunteering locals who want to share their love of the city with you, they’re a wonderful way to get a deeper understanding of the sights that you’re seeing and the history and meaning behind them.

There’s 3 tours per day, and what you’ll learn on the tour makes for a great starting point from which to explore the city.

4. Visit the iconic Paddy’s Markets

These markets have been a Sydney institution for over 150 years.

Paddy’s is the biggest market in Sydney, with over 1,000 stalls between the Haymarket and Flemington locations.

You’ll find very reasonably priced souvenirs, bric-a-brac and general fun items, as well as a great atmosphere and tasty food.

5. Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is one of Australia’s most famous beaches, and a popular hangout for Sydney’s beautiful people, as well as local and international celebrities.

It’s always busy here, but usually not too busy, and the atmosphere is exciting.

The surrounding suburb has some great retail and dining options.

Bondi Beach is on the Australian Heritage List, and is also noteworthy for holding the Guinness World Record for the largest swimsuit photo shoot, with 1010 bikini-clad women taking part.

6. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

This iconic bridge is another of the most well-known symbols of Sydney, and is one of the world’s few climbable bridges.

You’ll be prepared with health and safety essentials, and any weather-appropriate gear that you’ll need for the climb, and venture out on your climbing adventure with a group of other climbers and an experienced Climb Leader.

The view during the climb is exceptional, and it’s a truly different way of experiencing the bridge! You’ll find more information here .

7. Have dinner at Circular Quay

Circular Quay is known for its excellent gourmet dining options, and the views of the crystal-blue Sydney Harbour waters are truly stunning.

Some particularly delicious options include ARIA, the Sydney Cove Oyster Bar, Yayoi Garden and Tapavino; there’s also budget options such as Banh You Vietnamese Street Food, burgers at City Extra or the weekly meal deals at the Ship Inn.

8. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens were established in 1816, making them the oldest botanic gardens in Australia, as well as the oldest scientific institution.

They recently celebrated their 200th birthday with a series of popular commemorative events throughout the year.

Various guided and self-guided tours are available, and the Choo Choo express offers a quick, scenic way to get around the gardens.

You’ll learn many interesting facts about Australian botanical history, as well as being able to enjoy plenty of gorgeous plant-life! The Royal Botanic Gardens are only a few minutes’ walk from the Sydney CBD and the Opera House, and are one of Sydney’s most touristed attractions with over 5 million visitors per year.

9. Enjoy a touch of Australiana with a Home and Away tour

One of Australia’s most best-loved exports, Home and Away is a TV soap opera that has been running since 1988, making it the second-longest drama series in Australian TV history; you can catch it on Channel 7 at 7pm from Monday to Thursday, for 45 weeks of the year.

The show is sold to 80 countries worldwide, and is particularly loved in the United Kingdom.

Home and Away is set in the fictional Summer Bay, and filmed largely in Palm Beach; fans of the show will recognize many of the sights of Summer Bay, and you may even be there while filming is being done! Palm Beach boasts stunning scenery – clear-blue waters and pristine white beaches – so it’s also a lovely spot to relax and rejuvenate.

Recommended tour : Official Home and Away Tour to Summer Bay

10. Get an adrenaline rush at Luna Park

Luna Park is worth visiting for the so-kitsch-it’s-cool entrance alone; it makes a hilarious photo backdrop.

If you’re into amusement park rides, you’ll have a great time here: the Wild Mouse is perfect for that terrifying-yet-awesome rollercoaster thrill.

On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, then Luna Park is perfect too – you can actually enjoy first-class dining inside a ferris wheel carriage on Sundays.

There’s also a Coney Island area, inspired by the actual Coney Island in the US: it’s an old-school funhouse with sideshow games, a mirror maze, and traditional retro fun.

Skip-the-Line ticket available: Luna Park Sydney: Unlimited Rides Pass

11. Visit the picturesque seaside town of Manly

Manly is a relaxed beachside suburb, a short (and gorgeous!) ferry ride away from Sydney’s city centre.

It’s extremely popular with locals and tourists alike – a whopping 8 million visitors per year! – and it’s ideal for beach and water activities such as beach volleyball, running, kayaking, scuba and surfing.

Manly also boasts excellent al fresco dining options, a lovely museum, a sea life sanctuary, and even a shark-diving experience! Various guided walking tours by knowledgeable locals are also available.

Available tour : Snorkel Tour at Manly, North Sydney

12. Take a cruise or ferry around the lovely Circular Quay and Darling Harbour

Cruising past the opera house and enjoying the stunning views of the water is a wonderful way to relax after a long day of pounding the pavement.

There’s various sightseeing cruises available, many of which are catered, but if you’re on a budget, you can enjoy the same views at a much cheaper price via public transport: a trip from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour is under $4.

13. Go museum-hopping

As you’d expect from Australia’s largest city, Sydney is home to some world-class museums that offer a fascinating insight into the city’s past, present and future, as well as interesting collections from all over the world.

The Australian Museum has a great natural history collection – get up close with all of Australia’s scariest nasties, but without the whole risk-of-death thing.

The Powerhouse Museum has a focus on science, design, innovation and technology, and the fun exhibits range from steam-engines, to life in the 80s, to an awesome dancing robot that will fight for its right to party.

The Hyde Park Barracks Museum are a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site that provide an oft-depressing step back into history, having previously been first a convict barracks and then an asylum for women.

It’s a reminder of a cruel way of life that would be considered terrible by today’s standards; but it’s also wonderfully refreshing and full of hope when you consider how far we’ve come.

• 14.  Check out Sydney’s famous nightlife

Sydney is known as one of the southern hemisphere’s best destinations for nightlife, and for good reason.

In particular, Oxford Street (the centre of Sydney’s gay area) has many popular venues that cater for gay, straight and mixed crowds; some popular venues elsewhere include Chinese Laundry and Home. (There’s also plenty of bars and clubs in Kings Cross, but the area can be very seedy at night, so it may be best avoided.)

• 15.  Go sports-mad at the SCG

Sydney loves its sports, and you’ll notice how passionate the locals are about their favorite teams.

The SCG is the place to catch a game with your new Sydney-sider friends: there’s something going on most weekends, and the venue plays host to a wide variety of sports including cricket, rugby and AFL. Even if you’re not into sports, it’s fun to breathe in the palpable excitement at a game, and you may even want to buy some souvenirs for your sporty friends back home.

16. Get in touch with nature at Garigal National Park

Garigal is a protected national park in the North Shore region of Sydney.

Only 20km from the CBD, it’s a gorgeous oasis just a short trip away from the hustle and bustle, and it’s a popular weekend getaway for locals.

The national park is huge, at 2202 hectares, and the park trails are very popular with walkers, hikers and cyclists; the Cascades are particularly lovely.

You’ll find exquisite scenery here, as well as interesting local flora and fauna; there’s also 100 ancient Aboriginal sites recorded within the park, including cave art and rock engravings.

17. Combine bar-hopping with history on the Sydney Historic Pub Crawl

Pubs have played an important part in Sydney’s culture since the early days of European settlement. The 4-hour historic pub crawl will take you to four of the oldest pubs in the city, as you learn about the sometimes-seedy, always fascinating history of the area: gang life, brothels, unsolved murders and more.

Sydney is a city that is rich in stories, and the pub crawl is a great way to get familiar with some of the stories from the underbelly of society.

Book online : Sydney Historic Pub Crawl Walking Tour

18. Get close to koalas, giraffes, penguins and owls at Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is a short ferry away from Sydney’s city centre, but it feels like a different world.

This well-kept zoo is home to a diverse range of animals, and is passionate about conservation, sustainability and public education.

There’s also a sky-high ropes adventure course, offering gorgeous views of Sydney Harbour.

It’s quite a large zoo, but the zoo train and the Sky Safari will help you get around in comfort.

It’s also possible to sleep the night at the zoo in safari-style tents.

Book online : Taronga Zoo Tickets

• 19.  Go on a spooky ghost tour

Another side of Sydney that people don’t often come into contact with (literally or figuratively!), a ghost tour is a great way to learn about the spooky bits of Sydney, which was originally founded as a convict colony.

Several different companies offer ghost tours, where you’ll hear true stories of murders, suicides, hangings and more.

One of these tours is of Quarantine Station, a location which was used to isolate people believed to be carrying contagious diseases.

It is believed to be one of Australia’s most haunted sites, and tour options include an “extreme ghost tour” working with real paranormal investigators.

Recommended tour : Haunted Sydney Ghost Tour

• 20.  Get nostalgic at the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace

The Hayden Orpheum is a gorgeous little piece of cinema history, and a window into the picture theatres of your grandparents’ era.

This cinema has been operating since 1935, and you can catch the latest flicks in plush 30s luxury.

The retro neon signs out the front are also a blast from the past, and a cute photo backdrop to boot.

Some movie sessions even start with a theatre organ being played; while these were very commonplace in the era of silent film, very few are still playing in cinemas today, so it’s quite a unique, enchanting experience.

The Picture Palace sometimes hosts themed movie nights, so it’s worth taking a look at their website to see if there’s something special on.

21. Step back in time at Elizabeth Farm

Elizabeth Farm is Australia’s oldest homestead, set in the grounds of a re-created 1830s garden.

It is an ‘access all areas’ living museum, with no barriers or locked doors: it truly feels like walking around a home in the early 19th century.

Elizabeth Farm is an interesting insight into the lives of early European settlers through the story of the MacArthur family which inhabited the home.

Various tours are available, including a tour by candlelight, and a family tour.

There is also a tearoom on site, where you can enjoy Devonshire tea.

22. Enjoy a beautiful panoramic view from the top of Sydney Tower

The Sydney Tower Eye is the highest point in Sydney, from which you can see 360-degree panoramic views.

It’s lovely both during the day and in the evening; it’s particularly worth coming shortly before sunset so that you can enjoy the daytime and the night-time views, but there’s never really a time when it’s not a wonderful sight.

The Tower is open every day of the year, and you can also sign up for a SKYWALK tour of the outer perimeter.

Tip : this is included in the Ultimate Sydney Pass

23. Taste the freshest catch of the day at Sydney Fish Market

Australia is known for its delicious seafood, and the Sydney Fish Market is a great place to find exceptional quality.

As well as a delight for your tastebuds, it’s also got a great atmosphere, and behind-the-scenes tours are available.

There are several cafes and restaurants onsite, as well as a sushi bar and a Chinese seafood restaurant specializing in yum cha.

24. Visit The Rocks

The Rocks is the first site of European settlement in Australia, and is rich in history; it was particularly important first as a convict site and then as a working-class part of town.

It’s also home to Cadman’s Cottage, the oldest residential house in Sydney.

The Rocks is also well-known for its markets, cobblestoned laneways, and the stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

You’ll find several excellent art galleries in this area, and great dining options.

25. Check out Cockatoo Island

Cockatoo Island is an island located in the middle of Sydney Harbour, easily accessible by ferry.

Parts of the island have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as one of 11 historical sites that form the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.

The Australian Convict Sites are the best surviving evidence of the convict transportation and forced labour used to build Australia as a European colony.

The convict precinct of Cockatoo Island is a sometimes shocking testament to the appalling cruelties of convict life.

The island also has a fascinating maritime history, which continued until 1979, and was used as a reform school.

As well as being historically fascinating, the island is also gorgeous, and a popular camping spot.

There’s also a giant chess board outside the Visitor’s Centre.

25 Best Things To Do In Sydney (Australia):

• See a show at the Opera House
• Stroll Darling Harbour
• Get a local perspective with a free walking tour
• Visit the iconic Paddy’s Markets
• Bondi Beach
• Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Have dinner at Circular Quay
• Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens
• Enjoy a touch of Australiana with a Home and Away tour
• Get an adrenaline rush at Luna Park
• Visit the picturesque seaside town of Manly
• Take a cruise or ferry around the lovely Circular Quay and Darling Harbour
• Go museum-hopping
• Get in touch with nature at Garigal National Park
• Combine bar-hopping with history on the Sydney Historic Pub Crawl
• Get close to koalas, giraffes, penguins and owls at Taronga Zoo
• Step back in time at Elizabeth Farm
• Enjoy a beautiful panoramic view from the top of Sydney Tower
• Taste the freshest catch of the day at Sydney Fish Market
• Visit The Rocks
• Check out Cockatoo Island

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The 52 best things to do in Sydney in 2024

From classic Sydney bucket list items to quirky secrets from locals – this is the only Harbour City guide you'll need

We might be a little biased, but in our humble opinion, Sydney's got it all. Can you think of many other cities in the world that rival its natural beauty , rich heritage and history that dates back thousands of years, and its creative , culinary and cultural offerings by world-class pros. In fact, there's so much to see, do, sip and ponder here, you could be forgiven for feeling a little overwhelmed. Worry not, dear reader – we're making it simple for you.

Our team (including Food & Drink Editor  Avril Treasure  and our Sydney Editor Alice Ellis ) sifted through every good time the Big Smoke has to offer and put together a Sydney bucket list for the ages. Whether you're a new arrival or a born-and-bred local, this 2024 Time Out Sydney round-up of the city's must-do activities will let you experience Sydney from every angle.

After all those great activities you're bound to be thirsty. We suggest you head to one of the best pubs in Sydney right now .  

Need somewhere to stay check out sydney's best airbnbs , or sydney's best hotels ..

An email you’ll actually love

The best things to do in Sydney

1.  Explore the inner workings of the Sydney Opera House

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

What is it?   It's a chance to step inside Australia's most iconic building, granting you access to (almost) every corner of this architectural wonder.

Why go?  You'll get to explore the theatres (providing there isn’t a show in session) – from the majestic Concert Hall to the quaint Drama Theatre. You’ll be regaled with the secrets and stories that go on behind the curtain. There's even an immersive experience that celebrates the past, present and people of our city's most famous building.

Don't miss:  As well as entertaining all the musical aficionados, the Opera House caters to the foodies of Sydneytown with their ' Taste of the House ' tour. 

2.  Seek out the hidden oasis that is Wendy's Secret Garden

• Lavender Bay

What is it?  This secret garden, with full views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, is part public, part private land at the foot of artist Brett Whiteley’s home in Lavender Bay.

Why go? For years, the land was tangled, overgrown and strewn with rubbish, but when Whiteley died in 1992, his widow, Wendy, channelled her grief into creating a place of enchantment. Sydneysiders come to escape the busier parks and enjoy a picnic in the hidden oasis.

Don't miss: The chance to snap a pic of Sydney Harbour surrounded by towering fig trees and native plants. 

3.  Ride the iconic Manly Ferry

What is it? Locals use it every day on their commute to work, but the Manly Ferry voyage is an impossibly beautiful treat.

Why go? While the motors chug soothingly, enjoy the scenery of Sydney Harbour as it glides by, taking you past the bridge, Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo and harbourside beaches such as Shark Beach and Camp Cove out to one of the city’s most popular beachside suburbs, great for bars, restaurants, shopping and snorkelling.

Don't miss: We suggest you hop off and explore part or all the Manly to Spit walk for spectacular views of the north and south headlands.

4.  Paddle under the Coathanger with Sydney by Kayak

• North Shore

What is it?  A sunrise kayak tour with glorious photo opportunities that’ll make your hungover friends incredibly jealous. 

Why go?  Instructor Laura Stone and husband Ben run weekly dawn tours that make the most of Sydney Harbour before most people turn over on their pillow and hit snooze. The harbour water is velvety smooth, and the kayaks are very stable so you don’t need to work hard to paddle around Luna Park and into position as the sunlight hits Sydney Opera House. 

Don't miss:  Flat whites never tasted more satisfying than when you're bobbing under the bridge, paddle under arm and wrangling a camera for that perfect Instagram shot. 

5.  Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge

What is it?  A chance to scale the world-famous 'Coathanger'.

Why go?  Yes it's pretty spenno, and yes it's very touristy, but it really is a breathtaking sight, beholding the Sydney Harbour in all its majesty. If you're short on time, the express climb is a little shorter and takes you up the inside structure so that you are surrounded by hand-riveted steel and feel a little like you’re inside the ribs of a metal skeleton. However, if you can we recommend you go all-in with the latest addition to the BridgeClimb's offering: scaling the full arch of the Harbour Bridge from end to end.

Don't miss:  This is an incredible experience at dawn or dusk, as the day's first rays and final embers light up the horizon.

6.  Discover the hidden gem that is Wattamolla Beach

• Attractions

What is it? Deep within the Royal National Park is a sandy oasis that has to be seen to be believed. You can take a swim in the emerald waters of the creek-fed lagoon, which is also a great spot for snorkeling, or simply lay back against one of the cabbage tree palms with a good book. If you’re a budding shutterbug, the Wattamolla Waterfall may well rank as one of the most photogenic natural wonders anywhere in the Greater Sydney region and that's really saying something.

Why go? While this beach is popular with locals in the know, its location, very much off the beaten track of the city and harbour beaches, flies under the radar of most. 

Don't miss: Be sure to take the short bushwalk to Providential Lookout to snap some dramatic shots of the rugged sea cliffs. What makes this little slice of paradise extra impressive is that you’ll also find great facilities here, thanks to the well-equipped picnic area, so bring along some snags and grill up some lunch on one of the public barbecues.

7.  Encounter the wildest locals at Taronga Zoo

What is it?  A not-for-profit zoo with harbourside views featuring 4,000 animals from koalas and echidnas to giraffes and elephants.

Why go?  You're guaranteed sightings of many Australian animals, plus threatened species. The zoo runs talks and animal encounters daily – and even glamping sleepovers. 

Don't miss:  Taronga Zoo boasts some of the best harbour views in the city, and as you walk along its wide, snaking paths you’ll spot the Bridge and Sydney Opera House as often as you spot the wildlife.

8.  Expand your mind at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)

What is it? The harbourside MCA is the go-to venue for cutting-edge art on a local and international level.

Why go?  The Museum of Contemporary Art often hosts exhibitions by huge international artists, including heavyweights like Anish Kapoor, Yoko Ono and Grayson Perry. 

Don't miss:  The MCA has a rooftop café and sculpture terrace with superb views of Circular Quay, including the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. 

9.  Drink in panoramic views at Bar 83, Sydney's highest bar

What is it? Perched 83 storeys above the streets of the CBD, this quirky, retro-futurist cocktail lounge is the highest place to drink in Sydney, located on the second-to-highest floor of Sydney Tower.

Why go? The views of Greater Sydney from the Golden Bucket are simply jaw-dropping, stretching all the way to the Pacific horizon in the east, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park in the north, the Blue Mountains in the west, and Cronulla in the south. You won't find vistas as impressive as these anywhere else in the city.

Don't miss: Because you're sure to work up an appetite gazing at all those delicious views, why not book a table at Sydney Tower's refurbed revolving restaurant, Infinity , one floor above Bar 83?

10.  Visit cultural institution the Art Gallery of NSW

What is it?  One of Australia’s foremost cultural institutions holding significant collections of Australian, European and Asian art. And now it has the huge new addition of the Sydney Modern section.

Why go?  The gallery presents nearly  40 exhibitions annually, and there are workshops, talks and film screenings each week – most of which are free to access. 

Don't miss:  The aforementioned new Sydney Modern building. It's seriously up there with the most impressive modern art galleries in the whole world.

11.  Swim with sharks at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium

• Wildlife centres
• Darling Harbour

What is it?  The only cageless shark diving experience in Sydney. You can join a colony of grey nurse sharks on a 30-minute diving experience in Darling Harbour.

Why go? Though the grey nurse sharks range from one to three metres long in the tank, they’re placid creatures and do very little other than give you a curious side eye as they swim by. The biggest benefit of diving with them at the aquarium, rather than in the open ocean, is the guarantee of seeing so many sharks in one spot. Don't miss:  The colony of king and gentoo penguins who also call the aquarium home. 

12.  Swim at the oh-so-grammable Bondi Icebergs Pool

• Sport and fitness
• Bondi Beach

What is is? It’s the most photographed ocean pool in Australia – at Sydney’s most famous beach . The 50-metre saltwater pool a popular spot for sunbathers and a bottleneck spot on the Bondi to Coogee walk.

Why go? The baths have been a landmark of Bondi for 100 years, and it’s only $9 for casual entry – giving you access to the pool and sauna.

Don't miss:  If you're splashing out, it's worth heading upstairs to Icebergs Dining Room for a cocktail and bowl of crab risotto with the best view in town.

13.  Hang ten at Bondi Beach with Let's Go Surfing

• Bondi North

What is it? Surfing a wave at Bondi should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re rusty with a surfboard, book in for a class at Let’s Go Surfing.

Why go? The school prides itself on the popular two-hour beginners’ course, which goes through the essentials of water safety (including Bondi’s dangerous rips), paddling and how to catch a wave. Each lesson starts on the sand, so you can ask embarrassing questions without fear. 

Don't miss:  After your lesson, head to one of North Bondi's excellent cafés like Porch and Parlour or Harry's Bondi . 

14.  Go on a bush foods tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens

What is it? A one-hour guided tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens where you'll learn about the Indigenous history of the land. You’ll learn about how the Gadigal people lived and worked with the seasons before the area was colonised.

Why go? Stingless bee colonies, climbing Moreton Bay fig trees and juicy Davidson plums are just a few of the natural wonders you’ll see (and taste) on this tour of Sydney’s harbourside horticultural oasis. You’ll walk by some of Sydney’s most famous landmarks as you trail around the fringe of the city looking back out to the Opera House, Mrs Macquarie's Chair and the Harbour Bridge.

Don't miss:  You’ll also learn about the deep connection to seasonality – when wattles are in bloom you’ll know that whales are migrating, while stingless bee colonies act as natural barometer. 

15.  Sample the best Marg in town at Cantina OK

• Cocktail bars
• price 2 of 4

What is it? Sydney's ittiest-bittiest tequila bar, somehow squeezed into a repurposed carport down a CBD laneway, and Time Out's 2020 pick for the best place to drink in the city .

Why go? Its Margarita is, without doubt, the best available in Sydney, and dare we say, the whole of Australia. The secret? A shaken 50/50 blend of Mexico-made tequila and mezcal, poured over shaved ice and finished with orange oil. 

Don't miss: If your experience of tequila (and its cousin mezcal) is slamming a nasty, eye-watering shot in the pub, allow the smooth-as-silk varieties here to change your mind about this all-too-often underrated spirit.

16.  Marvel at contemporary Chinese art at White Rabbit

• Chippendale

What is it? The state-of-the-art, four-floor gallery brings together 21st century Chinese art, with a rotation of four key exhibitions throughout the year. Founder Judith Neilson created the self-funded non-profit gallery to house her epic collection of post-millennial Chinese art. And entry is always free. 

Why go?  White Rabbit is known for putting on bold and sometimes confronting exhibitions. 

Don't miss:  Refuel with a plate of dumplings and toothsome tisanes at the in-house tea room. 

17.  Catch an STC show at the Walsh Bay arts precinct

• Dawes Point

What is it? Home to the Sydney Theatre Company, the Wharf Theatres occupy Pier 4/5 on Hickson Road in the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct . Many of STC's productions are staged here but it's also where its offices and rehearsal studios are housed. The entire facility recently underwent two years of upgrades, making it one of the most cutting-edge theatre spaces in Australia.

Why go? The city's flagship theatre company, currently under the artistic direction of visionary theatremaker Kip Williams, is without question one of the most important theatre companies in the world. You cannot call yourself a cultured Sydneysider until you've seen one of this company's incredible productions.

18.  Pull an all-nighter at the Abercrombie

• Restaurants

What is it?  A multi-level heritage-listed pub slash nightclub slash  cocktail bar  slash wine bar and shop on Broadway.

Why go? After closing in 2014, the Abercrombie reopened in December 2022  as several venues under the one roof (an actual party palace), and with a 24-hour licence. Take that, lockout laws!

Don't miss: Casa Rosa, their  cocktail bar and terrazza rooftop that's all about dancing on the tables through to the early morning. Think DJs spinning Italo-disco tunes, Italian-inspired cocktails, and Mediterranean-style dining. It's on level 2.

19.  Take an Indigenous walking tour of Dharawal National Park

What is it?  Sixty minutes from Sydney’s CBD, Dharawal National Park has stunning scenery and until recently public access to the bushland was restricted. Now you can enjoy guided tours of the park every second Saturday of the month.

Why go? Guiding the way will be an Aboriginal Discovery Ranger, who will share local knowledge about flora and fauna, as well as Dreamtime stories that connect Indigenous Australians to the area.

Don't miss:  Enjoy a short bushwalk and then picnic at Minerva Pool – a sacred women’s place for the Dharawal People (only women and children may enter the pool). 

20.  Sip a world-class cocktail at Maybe Sammy

What is it? This small but mighty cocktail lounge isn't just one of Sydney's best watering holes. It's been the highest-ranking Australian bar on the prestigious 50 Best Bars in the World list four years on the trot.

Why go? Yes, the mixology skills here are a cut above, but where Maybe Sammy really rules the roost is with its incredible hospitality. The bartenders are chatty but not obnoxiously so, attentive but not smothering, playfully sassy but not crass. And every carefully crafted cocktail has some kind of playful sleight of hand that adds a little bit of magic to your order. 

Don't miss: The signature cocktail menu is packed with fruit-forward crowd-pleasers that are sophisticated and complex but never challenging. 

21.  Watch the sunset from the Hornby Lighthouse

• Watsons Bay

What is it? On the leading edge of the South Head, you'll find one of Sydney's cutest lighthouses overlooking the calm waters of Camp Cove.

Why go? With the vast expanse of the mighty Pacific Ocean to the east and stunning city views to the west, a visit to this beautiful corner of the city is bound to leave you awestruck. You can make a day of it too, by taking the South Head trail from Watsons Bay. It's an easy amble, and you can reward yourself for that lill' bit of cardio with a drink or two at the Watsons Bay Hotel afterward.

Don't miss: If you're travelling in from the city, catching the ferry from circular quay to the Watsons Bay terminus is a must. Not only will it get you to your destination swiftly, but it'll also treat you to a whistlestop stickybeak tour of the bougie harbourview residences that line the foreshore.

22.  Crawl Sydney's best craft brewery bars

What is it?  Sydney has developed a thriving craft brewery scene, ever since  Young Henrys came along in 2012.

Why go? The Australian beer landscape is now truly world class, and while we’re pretty darn spoiled for choice when it comes to places to drink craft beer in this city, there’s something special about going straight to the source. So leave the car keys behind and set aside an afternoon to make tracks to these excellent establishments pouring the top brews in town.

Don't miss: The Marrickville brewery circuit. Although there are craft breweries dotted around Sydney, from the south and up to the Northern Beaches, inner western suburb Marrickville has a strong concentration of top picks – from Grifter , to Batch ,  Hawke's ,  Philter , Wildflower , Sauce Brewery , Stockade and relatively new entry, Mixtape . You can easily make a whole day of it in this single suburb.  

23.  Experience game-changing seafood at Saint Peter

What is it?  A neighbourhood shrine to seafood that's become an international dining destination for fish fanatics.

Why go?  Young gun chef Josh Niland is doing revolutionary things with the ocean's finest: dry-aging, using eyeballs to make chips and making pure magic out of offal. 

Don't miss:  Head in for lunch if you want to catch the almighty sea urchin crumpets or sea urchin brioche doughnuts – served depending on availabilty.

24.  Get a dose of perspective at the Sydney Jewish Museum

• Darlinghurst

What is it? The Sydney Jewish Museum is a beautifully and respectfully curated space that humanises history and invites visitors to look at the present with new understanding. There is a misunderstanding that the Sydney Jewish Museum is only meant for Jewish people to visit, or only of interest to WWII buffs. In reality, the museum makes history accessible through the lens of the Jewish experience, and in doing so, gives us new perspective. 

Why go? It doesn't just keep important Jewish history alive; it reminds us about the potentially world-shattering danger of prejudice, hate and marginalisation of any group of people. It's one for the whole family.

Don't miss: The Reverberations: A Future for Memory exhibition . Thanks to AI, you can have a one-on-one, interactive conversation with the now-deceased ‘Happiest Man on Earth’ Eddie Jaku and other Holocaust survivors at this extraordinary experience.

25.  Cool down with scoop of gelato at Cow and the Moon

What is it?   A humble Enmore gelateria that defeated competitors from 22 other countries (yes, including Italy) and took out the title for world’s best gelato back in 2014.

Why go?  In case you didn’t quite process the words written above: World’s. Best. Gelato. You’ve got 26 flavours to choose from every day, including sorbets.

Don't miss:   The mandorla affogato is the one that wowed the judges, but the strawberry balsamic panna cotta is a dazzler, too.

26.  Watch a cult indie flick at Golden Age Cinema

• Surry Hills

What is it? A boutique, 60-seat cinema in Surry Hills where you can catch the latest indie releases as well as cult film screenings, attend weekly movie trivia nights and hang out in the golden age-inspired basement bar. 

Why go?  The building was constructed in 1940 as the offices of Paramount Pictures. Two vintage projectors remain on the premises, although the new cinema uses a digital projector.

Don't miss: High-quality cinema snacks are offered in the adjoining bar – expect the finest choc-tops in Sydney. 

27.  Splurge on a decadent degustation at Quay

• price 4 of 4

What is it?   Peter Gilmore’s inventive Australian dining institution, and a long time feature on Time Out's list of Sydney's top restaurants

Why go?   Whether you opt for six or ten courses, you’ll be looked after by a superlative service team that doesn’t miss a beat, taste native ingredients at their peak along the way and soak in peerless dress-circle harbour views that really put the ‘special’ in special occasion.

Don't miss:   Gilmore is also the executive chef at Bennelong , the bar and restaurant under the sails of the Opera House across the water. It’s the perfect pre-or-post-show feed.

28.  Discover the Japanese flora at the Auburn Botanic Gardens

What is it? Tranquility might not be the buzzword that springs to mind when you think of the Western Sydney suburb of Auburn, but it’s the right descriptor for this 9.2-hectare oasis, bursting with lush greenery and exotic flora.

Why go? The gardens are broken down into themed areas that include a Japanese garden, complete with a pond, waterfall and ornamental bridges. Past the Japanese garden is the Reflection Pool, then the scented garden, the sunken rose garden, a billabong, native rainforest and a playground that has full wheelchair accessible equipment, including a liberty swing.

Don't miss:  Seek out the fauna reserve and aviary where you can commune with peacocks, Cape Barron geese and red-necked wallabies. Each year the Gardens also host a major flora festival, the Cherry Blossom Festival in August. 

29.  Sample a next-level cocktail at PS40

What is it? Part bar, part laboratory, this sleek watering hole in the CBD boasts one of the most extraordinary cocktail menus in the city. Each creation defies conventional explanation, fusing flavour and theatre in perfect sync. 

Why go? PS40 co-owners Michael Chiem and Thor Bergquist have applied a jaw-dropping level of forethought and ingenuity to their craft. No bar commits to reinvention with more conviction than PS40 and that any idea or theme is just an excuse to let these gifted imaginations run totally free.

Don't miss: If you're not in the mood for booze, PS40 also manufactures its own bespoke line of sodas.

30.  Take a sunrise swim at Bronte Baths

What is it?  Built into the rocky cliffside, this ocean pool is popular with early risers for salty laps and Instagram pics of the sunrise. 

Why go? The waves at Bronte Beach can get a little hairy for less experienced swimmers, but here you can enjoy the best of both worlds with a protected saltwater pool that has waves crashing at the walls. 

Don't miss: Try to get here before 7am – watching the sun breach over the ocean’s horizon from this vantage point is pretty special.

31.  Try the eponymous signature dish at XOPP

What is it? The Darling Square-based little sister to the legendary and dearly departed late-night Chinese restaurant Golden Century, this buzzing diner is a must for anyone who considers themself a lover of Cantonese cuisine.

Why go? While the restaurant that inspired it fell foul of the lockdowns, XOPP has remained true to its legacy, with a menu that heroes live seafood and swift (if sometimes stern) service.

Don't miss: The pipis in XO sauce, the signature dish at Golden Century that inspired its spin-off's name (say each letter slowly, one at a time) are likely to be one of the best things you've ever tasted. Yes, that's a big call, but we're yet to be proved wrong.

32.  Go whale watching or hiking in the Royal National Park

What is it? It's 26 kilometres of national park with stunning coastline walks, secluded beaches, natural rock pools and rock formations that are Insta-worthy. Why go? Whether you want to swim, trek, picnic, swim, bike ride, swim or just GTFO of Sydney for the day, the Royal National Park will provide an outdoors, adventure-filled day away. Tread with caution at hot spots like the Figure Eight rock pools, and watch some from a distance (cough,  Wedding Cake Rock , cough).

Don't miss: Whale watching season runs from May to November and the Royal National Park is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures on their migration. 

33.  Get the best caffeine fix in town at Single O

What is it?  These coffee pioneers were the first in Sydney to extol the virtues of bean provenance and production. In the 18 years since they first opened, they've firmly cemented a reputation as Sydney's ultimate utopia for coffee enthusiasts.

Why go? Come for the coffee, but stay for the impressive range of gourmet brunch options, many featuring a laundry list of native ingredients like  saltbush, strawberry gum, macadamia, kangaroo and Davidson’s plum .

Don't miss: When in Rome, drink coffee like the Romans do. Don't mess around with a flat white – it's Single O's espresso game that really stands it apart, so make sure you order the strong stuff.

34.  Take a ferry to Cockatoo Island

What is it?  It's the largest island in Sydney's harbour and set at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers. It's been a film set, a jail, a shipping yard and home to some exceptional arts and culture festivals. 

Why go?  Because it has so much history. Before 1839, when a prison was built to house convicts from Norfolk Island, it was covered with red gums and was almost certainly an Aboriginal fishing spot. The island had a brief stint hosting an industrial school for girls and a naval training ship for boys. However, the island was mostly used for shipbuilding and repairs. Today, the island is run by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, which runs different types of tours.

Don't miss: There are campsites, glamping packages, apartments or heritage holiday houses to choose from if you want to extend your trip to the storied island. 

35.  Stroll past hidden beaches on the Hermitage Foreshore Walk

What is it?   This easy, breezy 1.8km walk rewards visitors with stunning views of the harbour for not a lot of effort.

Why go?  Along the way you’ll catch views of the Harbour Bridge and Shark Island, as well as historic Strickland House, a heritage-listed Victorian Italianate mansion built in the 1850s.

Don't miss: You’d also be wise to pack swimmers and sunscreen, as you’ll pass by a number of idyllic harbour beaches.

36.  Try Sydney's best fish burger at Charcoal Fish

What is it? Seafood savant Josh Niland's first foray into the fast-casual market is still thoroughly anchored to his low-to-no-waste philosophy. A fish and chippery this venue is not. It shares more DNA with the charcoal chook joint (hence the name), so expect rotisserie barbecues and open flames.

Why go? Niland is one of Australia's most dynamic and innovative culinary trailblazers, but you won't have to fork over a fortune to taste the fare at this accessible facet of his food empire.

Don't miss:  The Murray cod fish burger is the signature hero on his streamlined menu. Dry-aged for 7 days before blistering up on the barbie, you'll find elements from just about every part of the fish in this burger. Don't let that put you off – Niland's genius is in transforming parts of the animal that almost always end up in the bin into morsels of next-level deliciousness.

37.  Browse Australian boutiques at Strand Arcade

What is it? When it opened in 1892, the Strand Arcade was regarded as the very latest in shopping-centre architecture. It's still one of the most beautiful thoroughfares to visit today. 

Why go?  The narrow, multi-level shopping arcade houses premium Australian fashion designers, including Jac+ Jack, Lover, Sass & Bide and Dion Lee. Plus, you can find vibrant and distinctive jewellery from local brand Dinosaur Designs and natural beauty products at Aesop. 

Don't miss: The very dapper hat collection at Strand Hatters. If you came to Australia without sufficient head protection, staff will sort you out with a stylish Akubra, Brixton or Panama. 

38.  Discover Sydney's coolest speakeasy, the Baxter Inn

What is it?   The watering hole that kick-started our ongoing love affair with hidden cocktail bars and forever raised the (figurative) bar in Sydney’s bar scene.

Why go?  Even now, after all these years, making your way through the dark tunnel and down the stairs at the back of the laneway is still a little bit of a thrill. And the service remains nothing less than impeccable.   

Don't miss:  The jaw-dropping collection of whiskies now stretches to more than 1,000 labels, and the bar is now open 4pm-3am every single night, so let the good times roll.

39.  Go on a spooky ghost tour at the very haunted Q Station

What is it? Situated on the North Head just south of Manly, Sydney's former quarantine station is now a hotel and corporate retreat. But try telling that to the many ghosts that supposedly roam its grounds. Q Station's ghost tours are hugely popular and pepper your scares with some fascinating local history.

Why go? If you weren't interested in learning about the quarantines of yore before 2020, you might be now. Q Station was on the frontline of the last global health emergency in 1918, and the rich history of this heritage-listed site offers a fascinating lens on the experiences of the past year.

Don't miss: Of all the ghoulish stops on the Q Station ghost tour, one is feared above all others: the gravedigger's cottage. Some seriously scary experiences have been reported within its walls, and this creepy dwelling is said to have Sydney's most haunted bathroom . 

40.  Go to true-blue Aussie pub the Unicorn Hotel

What is it? It’s the most resolutely Aussie joint in town. There’s no room for cultural cringe, because at the Unicorn they have a deep and enduring love for Australiana.

Why go?  Get amongst the Jatz crackers and French onion dip, or a proper free-range, hormone-free schnitzel. They cook it right – a very hot pan to get that crisp, caramelised shell, and a liberal hand with the seasoning.

Don't miss: There’s also darts, pool and live DJs will provide a good old fashioned disco soundtrack for Saturday night boogie. 

41.  Enjoy a drink with a world-class view at the Opera Bar

What is it? Of any bar in the city, few can boast a view as iconic as the Opera Bar. But that's not the only reason to go here. There are multiple venues to sample, live music and DJs most nights and unbeatable people-watching opportunities. 

Why go? Beauty and convenience don’t always go hand in hand, but Opera Bar is a glam exception to the rule. It manages to be both one of the most enviably located bars in the city as well as its most advantageous spot for a pre-show drink.

Don't miss:  The neighbouring venue, House Canteen, is an all-day diner serving baked goods in the morning and a pan-Asian menu from lunch until late.

42.  Find the freshest of eats at the Carriageworks Farmers Market

• Eveleigh Until 28 Dec 2024

What is it?   This weekly market is a Sydney institution, providing the freshest seasonal produce from the best growers and producers from around NSW.

Why go? It’s imperative that you do not eat before you visit the Carriageworks Farmers Markets. You’ll want to save maximum belly space for your personal version of The Bachelorette where you decide who gets your dollars and what delicious produce gets to come home with you.  You can spend a whole lot of money if you want to here, but equally, you could just grab a kombucha on tap and find a chair for some of the best dog-watching in the city.

Don't miss: Maybe you like something soupy and savoury first thing? In that case, go for the pho stand for a traditional Vietnamese start to the day. There’s a bibimbap stall that will even replace the rice with shredded cauliflower if you don’t believe in cheat days. Or opt for a classic bacon and egg roll if you're a creature of habit, from Farmer Rod’s Free Range stall. 

43.  Taste Sydney's best scrambled eggs at Bills

• price 1 of 4

What is it? It takes a chef of rare skill to perfect a complex dish, but a true genius in the kitchen to elevate a dish to legendary status that essentially has just one main ingredient. People queue down the street every weekend to get a taste of these light-as-a-feather, pillowy eggs, and for good reason.

Why go? Surry Hills, and Sydney in general for that matter, is far from short on brunch options but Bills is widely considered to be the OG venue for brekkie in the city. And it's not just the scrambled that they nail here – the corn fritters are another tried and true crowd-pleaser.

Don't miss: If you can manage your timing just so, try and snag a seat at one of the outdoor tables. Not only will you get some grade-A people watching along Crown St, but you can also enjoy being the envy of everyone still waiting in line.

44.  Dare to bare all at Obelisk Beach

What is it? One of Sydney's few legal nude beaches, so if you're feeling the au naturale vibe, then shed some layers here. You'll need to park up the hill and walk a fair way to get here – it's at the bottom of a long series of steps, and as far as beaches go, she's a small one. But it's worth it for the gorgeous views of Camp Cove and Parsley, Watsons and Vaucluse Bays in the distance.

Why go?  While going Full Monty in public isn't for everyone, there's something undeniably liberating about taking to the harbour waters in just your birthday suit. The stunning Sydney views are just the cherry on top.

Don't miss: If stripping off at Obelisk piques your interest, why not pay a visit to one of Sydney's other nude beaches ? There are five near the city where getting your kit off is permitted.

45.  Beat the clock at the Cipher Room

• Games and hobbies
• Erskineville

What is it?  One of the best escape rooms in Sydney; there are three rooms to choose from, and in each room you have to solve a series of puzzles in the allotted time in order to escape.

Why go? The Cipher Room is a labour of love for its co-creators, Newtown locals Marise Watson and David Vella. Game designer Marise spent a year researching escape rooms around Australia and in New York before creating Espionage. Husband David is the builder who put together the room’s ingenious bits and pieces by hand. Don't miss:  The Cipher Room’s scariest challenge, set in a haunted toy shop filled with creepy dolls. It's like stepping into a horror movie in the best way possible.

46.  Eat dinner by the beach at Sean's Panaroma

• 4 out of 5 stars
• price 3 of 4
• Recommended

What is it? A beachside restaurant that’s built its name on serving exceptional food made from locally sourced ingredients in a perfectly unpretentious, sun-bathed setting.

Why go? With its quaintly colourful decor, ocean views and distinctly friendly team, Sean’s has been playing host to magical mealtimes since it opened in 1993. Few things are more quintessentially Sydney than eating a plate of perfect fresh seafood after a dip in the ocean.

Don’t miss: Honestly, you could come for the bread alone, but it’s worth coming hungry so you have room for a famous Sean’s dessert. The menu changes with the seasons, but you won’t be disappointed.

47.  Take a day trip to TV famous Palm Beach

What is it?  Palm Beach is the ideal Australian package. Located one hour away from Sydney’s CBD on the Northern Beaches, this hot spot is perfect for a relaxing day trip away from the commotion of the city. 

Why go? Fans of Home & Away may recognise the location as Summer Bay, but Palm Beach is so much more than Alf Stewart's favourite fishing spot – there is calm water on one side for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, and big waves on the other for surfing. Plus, you can walk to the lighthouse on the hill, which is a great spot for whale watching. 

Don't miss: The cheapest way to get there is by the L90 bus from Wynyard Station for $6 - $10 with an Opal card.

48.  Stop and smell the flowers in Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden

What is it? In a city that’s far from shy about showing off its natural beauty, it’s a surprise that one of its prettiest corners may well be one of its best-kept secrets. Adjacent to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in Sydney’s north, there’s a whopping 123 hectares of wildflower gardens surrounded by Sydney sandstone bushland. Every plant found here is native, although not necessarily local – these colourful blooms have been sourced from across Australia, including 18 threatened species of flora.

Why go? The gardens were first planted in 1968 as a sanctuary for Indigenous plants and animals. Today, in addition to their array of floral delights, the gardens also feature running paths, fitness areas, picnic spots, and the charming, heritage-listed Caley’s Pavillion and patio. There’s also a wildflower nursery where you can pick up some beautiful Australian plants to take home.

Don't miss:  While you're in this part of Sydney, make time to enjoy the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Some of the most stunning trails close to the city can be found here, but the rocky falls at America Bay has to rank as its most breathtaking corner.

49.  Ride the Ferris wheel at Luna Park

• Milsons Point

What is it? Aside from the toothy grin of its distinctive front gates, this multicoloured Ferris wheel is the most recognisable feature of Sydney's oldest theme park.

Why go?  For more than eight decades, Luna Park has surprised and delighted the fun-seekers of Sydney. But it's not resting on its laurels. Sure, you'll still find some old-timey rides and vaudevillian aesthetics, but the park is also undergoing a major upgrade currently, to bring it into the 21st century, including the construction of several new attractions.

Don't miss: While it's easy enough to catch the train over the Harbour Bridge to Milsons Point, we recommend taking the ferry. It's almost as quick and you'll be rewarded with some choice photo ops as you approach Luna Park's wharf.

50.  Queue for a banh mi at Marrickville Pork Roll

• Marrickville

What is it?  The phrase ‘hole-in-the-wall’ is thrown around all the time, but this teensy Inner West sandwich shop specialising in Vietnam’s greatest edible export really, truly is.

Why go? Sydney’s best banh mi  is a topic of fierce debate, but Marrickville Pork Roll is always a part of that conversation. Waiting in the never-ending queue is like a rite of passage, but thankfully they pack the fluffy rolls with cold-cut pork, pâté and pickled veg so fast you won’t be waiting long.

Don't miss:  Should you find yourself in the city, you can get your hands on one of these bad boys at their second location in the thriving Darling Square precinct, as well.

51.  Seek out the secret seaside tunnel at Queenscliff Beach

• Queenscliff

What is it? Affectionately known as the ‘Manly wormhole’, it was in fact industrious fishermen – and not natural erosion – that chiseled this 40-metre channel through the rock of Queenscliff Head more than a century ago. Connecting Queenscliff and Freshwater beaches, the tunnel is still the most direct route between the two seafronts without cutting through the suburban streets.

Why go? While it may be a bit of a challenge scrambling over the rocks of the headland north of Manly Beach to find it, your efforts are soon rewarded with a close encounter with Sydney’s rich history and a view of Freshwater Beach that’s hard to beat, especially if you time your visit to coincide with sunset.

Don't miss: While you're in the neighbourhood, why not make a day of it? After all, Queenscliff Beach is Time Out's official pick for one of the best beaches in Sydney .

52.  Come for dinner and jazz at Hubert

• 5 out of 5 stars

What is it? This sexy, subterranean French-inspired restaurant has earned its name as a Sydney institution. 

Why go? This is as close as you’ll get to a 1950s Parisian dining palace without leaving the country. Descending the deep red staircase is like stepping back in time, and with live jazz and Martinis this good, it’s very hard to step back.

Don’t miss: Happy hour runs daily from 5pm until 6pm, with $8 duck liver parfait and $6 gin and tonics a failsafe order. If you’re pushing the boat out, go for a $12 Negroni and a $18 burger that’s so perfectly formulated, you’ll consider ordering two.

More great things to do across the globe

The best things to do in the world right now

Music, art, food, nature and the year’s biggest parties—these are very best things to do and see right now, anywhere in the world.

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22 Best Things to Do in Sydney

By Sophie Davies

No matter how you spend your days, it's hard not to be happy in Sydney, where the people are forever relaxed and the sun is forever shining. Flaunting gold-sand ocean beaches, glittering harbor pools, and an epic coastline backed by lush green parks, Sydney has natural wonders aplenty. It also offers heritage architecture, fascinating art galleries and museums, stylish shops, and destination dining. Since there is so much to do, we have sifted through it to compile a list of non-negotiable activities, from the city's most iconic beaches to the special culinary experience of going for yum cha with friends. Whether you're in town for a few days or a full week, this list will help you fill every hour with the best the city has to offer. These are the best things to do in Sydney.

Click the link to read our complete Sydney destination guide .

Editor's note: Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hours and accessibility of many places are fluid and subject to change. We advise you to contact businesses directly for updated safety guidelines and hours of operation before visiting.

Bondi Beach Arrow

Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach sports a sweeping, kilometer-long curve of golden sand, between two headlands, lashed by surf waves. What makes this Eastern Beaches wonder even more unusual is that it’s an urban affair, combining swimming and surfing with big-city buzz. This is heaven for surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers. It’s also the starting point for the scenic 6-kilometer Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk . Even on crowded summer weekends you’ll find a spot on the shore or lawns fringing the beach (there are barbecues at the northern reserve). People love jogging barefoot on the sand or along the street art-lined esplanade. Bondi’s hip boutiques on Gould Street offer stylish shopping.

Sydney Opera House Arrow

With its sweeping sails, the iconic Sydney Opera House is the symbol of the city, set front and center on Sydney Harbour at Bennelong Point. This jaw-dropping arts center also hosts plays, dance performances, classical concerts, and contemporary music gigs by major names such as Bob Dylan, Patti Smith, Björk, New Order, Paul Weller, and Lorde. It’s home to eight flagship arts companies, including the Australian Chamber Orchestra, indigenous Bangarra Dance Theatre , Bell Shakespeare, Opera Australia, Sydney Theatre Company, Australian Ballet, Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, and Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Try to catch a show.

Yum Cha at Fisherman's Wharf Seafood Restaurant Arrow

Going for yum cha is a Sydney tradition, with locals and visitors alike savoring delicious Chinese treats. Meaning “drink tea” in Cantonese, the ritual involves dining on lots of little dim sum delicacies, from seafood dumplings to spring rolls to pork buns, teamed with fragrant Chinese tea. Usually served piled high in bamboo steamers by wait staff wielding trolleys, these sensational snacks evolved in Hong Kong , but have translated perfectly a continent away. One of the city's top yum cha destinations is in Sydney Fish Market, where Fisherman’s Wharf Seafood Restaurant beckons. Consider Chinatown in Haymarket as well, which hosts classic, old-school restaurants Golden Century and Marigold, both popular yum cha haunts, especially for Sunday lunch. 

Surry Hills Arrow

With its tree-fringed Victorian terrace houses, sociable bars and cafés, and stylish independent stores, Surry Hills is a magnet for creative types and one of the inner city’s most charming neighborhoods. Visitors will get a sense of how Sydneysiders live here, whether that’s sipping matcha lattes at cafés such as the iconic Bills , sinking a craft beer at a pub, or just walking the dog. For a culture fix, head to the Brett Whiteley Studio , once home to the rebellious late Australian artist. It’s easy to stroll around Surry Hills, which is part of its appeal.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Wylie’s Baths Arrow

Coogee’s Wylie’s Baths is a large, heritage-listed ocean tidal pool with sweeping sea views. It's a five-minute stroll south of Coogee along the coastal walkway , and has a welcoming café on its upper tier with changing rooms alongside. Wylie’s, in addition to nearby Bondi Icebergs and Murray Rose pools, can be chilly, as they’re ocean or harbor dips. All get crowded on warm weekends.

Art Gallery NSW Arrow

Sydney’s premier art destination, the Art Gallery of New South Wales—aka Art Gallery NSW—was established in 1871 and holds court in the leafy Domain near Hyde Park . Its huge classical building is home to a vast collection of fine Australian and international art, including colonial and 19th-century Australian works and European old masters, as well as contemporary creations. It's free to visit the permanent collection of this public gallery, but specific shows are ticketed. The expansive collection covers all media, drawing over a million visitors a year to this major Australian gallery.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk Arrow

The iconic 6-kilometer Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk takes in five beaches and two bays, and is one of Sydney’s most scenic seaside walks. With its string of sensational beaches , stunning ocean views, and fairly easy, enjoyable trail, it’s a Sydney must-do. To shorten the journey, stroll from Bondi to Bronte and back. Fitter folk can continue south three kilometers to surf beach Maroubra, or stroll to Coogee and back again in a day. Stop off and relax at parks, rock pools, and cafés along the way.

The Rocks Arrow

Sydney’s oldest colonial neighborhood, the Rocks, is a warren of atmospheric sandstone warehouses, quiet courtyards, and cobbled alleys on the western side of Circular Quay. The birthplace of modern Sydney, this was where the First Fleet of British colonists and convicts stepped ashore in 1788. Enjoy spectacular views of Sydney Harbour Bridge looming over this historic district, and Sydney Opera House opposite. The oldest remaining building is 1816-founded Cadmans Cottage, beside the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA ), a handy starting point for a walk around the area’s 19th-century buildings, heritage pubs, cafés, shops, and galleries.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Arrow

Dubbed "The Coathanger," Sydney Harbour Bridge is an incredible feat of design. The world’s largest steel through arch bridge, opened in 1932 after years of planning, it’s a vital artery, linking Sydney’s CBD (Central Business District) beside Circular Quay with the North Shore. It’s free to walk or cycle across it—with separate paths on the east and west sides, respectively—affording bird’s-eye views of the Opera House , Luna Park, and the harbor below.

White Rabbit Gallery Arrow

One of Sydney’s insider secrets, the White Rabbit Gallery showcases contemporary Chinese art. White Rabbit is a must-see for anyone excited by modern art, especially the dynamic, influential Sino scene. The White Rabbit’s compact, white-walled, four-story space is the perfect size for an enjoyable visit. A serene teahouse on the ground floor, hung with pretty birdcages, serves Chinese and Taiwanese teas, dumplings, and scones. The adjacent gift shop sells stylish souvenirs drawing on the gallery’s shows. Signature buys include black and patterned staff aprons, and figurines of a girl with a white rabbit.

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Arrow

Australia’s oldest botanical garden, founded in 1816, is a leafy, 74-acre oasis adorned with ornamental plants, rolling lawns, and ancient trees, with a mix of native and international species. Admire the flora and fauna or just enjoy this verdant spot for a picnic, stroll, or serene time-out. You’ll find fabulous flowers, plant-packed conservatories, and historic sculptures dotting the grounds. For local attractions, check out the Australian Rainforest Garden, Australian Native Rockery, or the Bicentenary Garden, and the rare, recently rediscovered Wollemi Pine.

Manly Beach Arrow

One of Sydney’s most famous surf spots, Manly Beach is a huge sweep of golden sand backed by pretty pine trees. It’s actually three beaches in one—South Steyne, North Steyne, and surf-friendly Queenscliff, stretching almost two kilometers—and is the first of the city’s Northern Beaches which run from here up to Palm Beach. Take the iconic half-hour Manly Ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf for its fantastic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge , Sydney Opera House and city skyline (especially if you bag a seat outside), and on arrival, hit either the family-friendly harbor beaches on both sides of the wharf, or head down The Corso, a short pedestrian street across the peninsula, to oceanfront Manly Beach.

Bangarra Dance Theatre Arrow

Australia’s leading First Nations performing arts company, Bangarra, is beloved for its powerful dance performances, combining indigenous moves, songs, and stories drawn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. All the dancers are classically trained, but have indigenous roots, leading to a striking fusion of movement styles that will delight lovers of contemporary dance. Bangarra is the real deal, offering a uniquely Australian take on dance you won’t see elsewhere. Expect mesmerizing choreography, compelling theater, and distinctive design and soundscapes.

Taronga Zoo Sydney Arrow

Taronga Zoo occupies some of the city’s best real estate, ideal for snapping giraffes backdropped by the Sydney Opera House and sparkling harbor. Getting there is half the fun: take the scenic 12-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, then soar by Sky Safari cable car (free with zoo tickets) up to the main entrance. Once inside you’ll have a wild time, meeting over 4,000 animals from Australia and around the world. You’ll find amazing animals from gorillas to zebras at Taronga Zoo, but don’t miss the Australian indigenous species.

Cockatoo Island Arrow

A UNESCO World Heritage site, rugged Cockatoo Island combines colonial convict history with industrial shipbuilding heritage. Pick up an island map from the visitor center and explore. For a small fee, 90-minute, self-guided audio tours offer insight into Cockatoo’s layered past; you also can book ticketed guided tours online, including private convict precinct tours and lower Island, shipyard and night-time haunted history tours for groups. Spending time here is memorable and moving, so plan for at least half a day.

Sydney Living Museums Arrow

Sydney Living Museums is an inspiring collection of 12 of the city's best museums , historic houses, and gardens across the city and surrounding countryside. Changing exhibitions span everything from design and architecture to archeology, convict life, and street photography. Sydney Living Museums’ popular events celebrate living history, drawing inspiration from the permanent collections. Check the website for free guided tours for museum ticket holders. The Sydney Museums Pass will give you savings on entry.

Golden Age Cinema and Bar Arrow

Travel back to a bygone era at the retro-chic Golden Age Cinema and Bar, a glamorous, intimate cinema with a handy watering hole attached. Set in the heritage-listed, Art Deco Paramount Pictures building in Surry Hills , it was once the film company’s screening room, but has been lovingly restored. Launched in 2013, Golden Age screens classic, cult, and contemporary new-release movies, with a penchant for independent films, creative feature pairings, and documentaries.

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia Arrow

Sydney’s major modern art venue, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) occupies a prime harborside spot in the Rocks , overlooking the ferries at Circular Quay. The MCA Collection is devoted to contemporary Australian, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander artists, from sculpture to painting, photography, video art, and installations. One floor hosts changing displays from this impressive archive of over 4,000 pieces, while two other levels present temporary exhibitions by international and local talents. With killer views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House , the fourth-floor, semi-alfresco MCA Café serves a tempting breakfast and lunch menu, with drinks and wine.

Carriageworks Farmers Market Arrow

One of Sydney’s best produce markets, the weekly Carriageworks Farmers Market, takes place every Saturday morning. It's held in a cavernous, covered, open-air hanger in the historic former rail yards in Eveleigh, opposite Carriageworks arts center. Shop for seasonal, local produce at this respected farmers market, which hosts stalls by farmers and artisan producers from across New South Wales state. Organic and biodynamic food also stars. Stalls change, but look out for tasty vegan sausages from Suzy Spoon’s Vegetarian Butcher. You’ll find top quality meats, truffles, and wine, too.

Camp Cove Arrow

Camp Cove is the Sydney beach of your dreams. A skinny arc of golden sand backed by private beach houses and lapped by gentle turquoise water, it’s only 262 yards long, but makes up for its small size in charm. Swim out a little way to glimpse the Sydney skyline in the distance; there’s something surreal about bobbing in the sea while admiring the city's lofty skyscrapers.

The Intersection Paddington Arrow

Named after its location at the corner of Paddington’s Oxford Street and Glenmore Road, the Intersection is a hot shopping district. Clustered on and around two of Sydney’s chicest retail strips, it’s home to the best Australian fashion designers in town, alongside airy cafés and galleries. Find it halfway along main drag Oxford Street, opposite historic Victoria Barracks. What’s memorable at the Intersection is the critical mass of stylish showrooms in close proximity, yet you’re not trapped in a lifeless mall. Check out all your favorite Australian labels.

Australian Museum Arrow

Australia’s first public museum, founded in 1827, celebrates the astonishing flora, fauna, and cultures of Australia and the Pacific. The mammoth building exhibits a smorgasbord of natural history and ethnography in a prime corner near Hyde Park . The permanent collection houses more than 21 million cultural and scientific objects. Kids will love the Wild Planet exhibit, which includes stuffed kangaroos and koalas, or check out the dinosaurs or unusual wildlife of Surviving Australia . If time is flying, just tackle 200 Treasures of the Australian Museum , a landmark display in the Westpac Long Gallery, or learn more about Aboriginal heritage in the First Nations galleries.

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Sydney   Travel Guide

20 Best Things to Do in Sydney, Australia

Sydney's famous beaches are some of the city's most popular attractions for visitors and Sydneysiders alike. Although they can get crowded on warm Aussie days, beaches like Coogee, Bondi and Manly cannot be missed. If you'd rather take to

• All Things To Do

Sydney Harbour Sydney Harbour free

Many visitors say that Sydney Harbour's 150 miles of shoreline and expansive waters make it the most beautiful natural harbor in the world, and they just might be right. Blue water laps up to sandy shores over which landmarks like the  Royal Botanic Garden  and the  Sydney Opera House preside. Another iconic site, the  Sydney Harbour Bridge , towers above the harbor's waters. But for the best view of Sydney Harbour, travelers must pay a visit to  Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, which sits at the tip of one of the area's peninsulas.

For even more picturesque views, try taking a ferry at sunset when the sky comes alive with an array of colors. Overall, former visitors rave about the harbor, noting that the ferry rides are scenic (especially the popular Circular Quay to Manly route) and that there are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore nearby. The harbor's attractions also come alive during Sydney's New Year's Eve celebrations (think: massive fireworks displays), and in May and June when Vivid Sydney, a festival of light, music and creativity, takes place.

Sydney Opera House Sydney Opera House

U.S. News Insider Tip: While an up-close selfie with the Opera House is a must, a relaxing and less-crowded way to admire the iconic landmark and its surrounding harbor is by grabbing a refreshing drink at outdoor, harborside Opera Bar. – Leena Tailor

Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, the sailboat-inspired structure – submitted during an international design contest held in 1956 – features more than 1 million tiles on its four roof shells, and six theater and music venues with top-notch acoustics. Bold purple carpeting and sweeping views of  Sydney Harbour  and the  Sydney Harbour Bridge  also await visitors in the Sydney Opera House's foyer, while a picturesque boardwalk – complete with a trendy bar – sits outside.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Sydney Harbour Bridge free

The Sydney Harbour Bridge stands next to the  Opera House  as one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Lovingly called the "Coat Hanger" by locals, this towering structure is the world's largest steel arch bridge. And while you can capture stunning pictures of the bridge from one of Sydney Harbour 's ferry boats, for an unforgettable experience, sign up for a bridge climb through  BridgeClimb Sydney . Ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, the bridge climb provides visitors with panoramic views of the harbor, the Sydney skyline and the Opera House.

Although some former visitors complained of the high price tags, many said a bridge climb is the best way to experience this iconic attraction, calling it a must-do experience. While climbs are offered throughout the day, travelers recommend scheduling a climb at twilight, which will give you three different views – daylight, sunset and nighttime – in one. If you're afraid of heights, reviewers suggest you still consider the experience as staff are well-trained to help you overcome your anxieties.

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Manly Beach Manly Beach free

At first glance, Manly Beach, which is located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Sydney, may be just as crowded and active as other area beaches like Bondi and Coogee . However, this sprawling shoreline draws tons of praise from beachgoers, in part because of its proximity from the city and prime surfing waves. Those who are hoping to swim, though, may want to venture elsewhere since these waters are known for their rough waves. If you're not a surfer, you'll find other worthwhile activities at Manly, including scenic walks and hiking trails in the area.

Within the immediate area, visitors can enjoy all sorts of amenities, including restaurants and cafes, bush walks, playgrounds, barbecue areas, shops and public restrooms and showers. Most Sydneysiders and visitors prefer getting to Manly by way of the Circular Quay to Manly ferry. (Manly Wharf sits about six blocks from the beach.) There are also "fast ferries," which get visitors to Manly from Circular Quay in about half the time of the regular Manly Ferry (though it'll cost you more). Various buses will also get you to the area, though there is no direct bus route from Sydney. Four public parking lots – which offer up to two hours of free parking – are available near the beach as well. For more information about Manly Beach's activities, boutiques, eateries and events, visit the neighborhood's  website .

The Rocks The Rocks free

Earning its name from the sandstone rocks that line  Sydney Harbour , this neighborhood is as quaint as it is cool. Its cobblestone streets and 19th-century buildings are oh-so charming, but the shops, pubs, restaurants and galleries are fun and very au courant. Plus, its prime location next to attractions like the  Sydney Opera House  and the  Sydney Harbour Bridge  makes this trendy area extremely convenient for tourists.

Though the neighborhood offers plenty to explore any day of the week, on Saturdays and Sundays, the popular Rocks Markets run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Along with food stalls, there are also artisans selling everything from jewelry to candles to stationary at the Markets. Some prior visitors caution that the market items can be a bit pricey, but others loved the range of artisan items. Other visitors simply enjoyed soaking up the lively atmosphere of live music and free yoga.

Taronga Zoo Sydney Taronga Zoo Sydney

Fancy a selfie with a dingo and meeting a koala followed by a sleepover with the animals at an eco-retreat overlooking Sydney Harbour ? Taronga Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers. The nonprofit is home to more than 5,000 animals from more than 350 species. What's more, ticket sales go toward saving wildlife. As well as beautiful creatures like Sumatran tigers and Asian elephants, visitors can also get up close to world-renown Australian animals like kangaroos.

Seeing animals is only the beginning, with the zoo offering a multitude of fun and interactive add-on experiences. Guests can meet a koala for AU$12.50 (around $8), hang in the dingo enclosure for AU$69.95 ($47) or get an adventurous bird’s-eye view of the animals with the high ropes course at Wild Ropes Treetops Adventure, which costs AUD$36 ($24) for anyone 8 and older with discounts for children. The 2023 debut of the new Nura Diya Australia experience meanwhile has a quarter-mile walking trail that meanders through four landscapes, including Koala Country and Kangaroo Count. Visitors can then check into the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, which has animal-themed rooms, some of which overlook animal enclosures.

Darling Harbour Darling Harbour free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Darling Harbour makes the perfect central base to explore the sprawling city and offers hotels ranging from mid-budget chains like Holiday Inn to upscale hotels like Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. – Leena Tailor

Darling Harbour is a pedestrian district filled with a number of entertaining things to do. For instance, there's SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Chinese Garden of Friendship . Multiple kid-friendly attractions and the city's convention center are also found here, not to mention some delectable cafes and restaurants.

Coogee Beach Coogee Beach free

Though it's a bit smaller than its better-known northern counterpart  Bondi , Coogee Beach is the quintessential spot for those looking to soak up some sun and swim in Sydney's famous waters. Snorkeling is also a popular pastime here, and the scenic, nearly 4-mile Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a must. Plus, the eateries along the shore give beach bums several places to refuel.

Thanks to its less crowded atmosphere, picturesque setting and calmer waters, beachgoers (especially those traveling with children) raved about their time at Coogee, calling the beach gorgeous and even saying they prefer the spot over popular Bondi Beach. According to recent visitors, the food is also top-notch and the Bondi to Coogee walk is "spectacular."

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Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains

U.S. News Insider Tip: The weather can vary drastically between central Sydney and the Blue Mountains, so wearing layers is useful. Comfortable footwear is a must, especially if you’re planning to enjoy any of the walking trails. – Leena Tailor

Nature lovers will fall in love with the Blue Mountains, which are 70 miles west of Sydney (about a 90-minute drive or a two-hour train ride). The area is home to charming mountain towns, street art walks, glowworm caves, apple orchards, wine tours, wildlife safaris, gardens and more than 87 miles of walking tracks sprinkled with beautiful waterfalls, trees and plants.

Australian National Maritime Museum Australian National Maritime Museum

No harbor city would be complete without a maritime museum, and Sydney's is one of the best. Here, you can view exhibits about everything from fish X-rays to the history of Indigenous sailors, but that's just scratching the surface. The standout at this maritime museum is the ships docked in  Darling Harbour . All are open to museumgoers to board and explore. Notable vessels include the HMAS Vampire, a destroyer ship; the HMAS Onslow, a submarine; and the Akarana, an 1800s racing yacht. The museum's guides offer a wealth of knowledge about each of the docked ships, which were a highlight for many recent visitors.

Families that have visited the Australian National Maritime Museum praised its diversity of activities for kids. Inside, children can participate in an array of activities and themed arts and crafts projects. And because of the abundance of exhibits offered, many previous museumgoers felt ticket prices were justified.

Royal Botanic Garden Royal Botanic Garden free

Founded in 1816, the sprawling Royal Botanic Garden abounds with bright and colorful flora and fauna. The park is broken into multiple areas, including the Australian Rainforest Garden and the Palm Grove, which is home to the tallest tree in the gardens, a Queensland kauri pine. Another popular area is the Palace Rose Garden, which houses thousands of roses and is a well-known Sydney wedding venue. Recent visitors also said the view of the Harbour Bridge is another highlight here.

According to some previous travelers, a visit to the Royal Botanic Garden provides a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city, but walking shoes are a must since the grounds are large. Food from the property's four restaurants and cafes also receives high praise (but watch out for preying birds). Recent visitors were also thoroughly impressed that the gardens are free to visit. Walking tours can also be done for free by using maps on the attraction's website .

Bondi Beach Bondi Beach free

Bondi Beach is best known for its gnarly waves, which make it one of the top surfing destinations in the world. But if you're not ready to hang 10, don't fret. Bondi (pronounced "bond-eye") is also nice for strolling, sunbathing and swimming. Despite its popularity (and its plentiful souvenir shops and surf and fashion boutiques), Bondi maintains an alternative, edgy feel.

Almost universally, visitors said the 5-mile trek to Bondi from downtown Sydney is a must and that the beach is one of the most beautiful in the world. To claim a prime spot on the sand, arrive early: beachgoers say Bondi gets incredibly busy. Many former visitors also recommend setting aside time for one of the region's coastal walks. Both the Bondi to Coogee walk and the Bondi to Bronte walk offer superb water views and relaxing spots for picnics.

Mrs. Macquarie's Chair Mrs. Macquarie's Chair free

In 1810, Governor Lachlan Macquarie commissioned a bench for his wife, and the city's convicts carved Mrs. Macquarie's Chair out of a sandstone rock overlooking  Sydney Harbour . To this day, the landmark remains a top attraction thanks to its location, which provides picture-perfect views of the  Sydney Opera House  and the  Sydney Harbour Bridge  within a single frame.

It's not surprising, then, that visitors rave about the photo-ops here. Although it can get crowded at times, many say it's well worth the visit, especially for special events like the Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks show and the Australia Day Harbour Parade. Several also recommend arriving in the morning to get the best lighting for your photos.

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Hyde Park Barracks Museum Hyde Park Barracks Museum free

Considered one of the world's most significant convict locations, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once used to house convicted men and boys brought to Sydney from Great Britain. After Great Britain stopped transporting prisoners to Australia in 1840, convicts were moved to Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour and the former barracks were converted into the city's Female Immigration Depot. The Hyde Park Barracks Museum also served as a hostel for orphan girls fleeing the Irish Potato Famine and an asylum for elderly women before shutting its doors in 1886. After its closure, the historic building lay in shambles until an extensive restoration began in 1975. Now the property operates as a museum and archeological treasure.

According to recent visitors, the museum's interactive exhibits successfully paint an informative picture of what life was like as a convict in Sydney. Upon entering the museum, you'll be given a sanitized iPad and headset (though you're encouraged to bring your own) featuring audio performed by actors. As you make your way through the museum, the iPad can detect your location and offer information on what you're seeing (there are no informational placards, only visual displays). Sessions start every half-hour and run for 90 minutes. The audio guide is recommended for visitors 8 and older, however an audio guide and activity trail is available and suitable for kids aged 5 to 10.

Art Gallery of New South Wales Art Gallery of New South Wales free

Situated in the same park complex that houses the  Royal Botanic Garden  and  Mrs. Macquarie's Chair , the Art Gallery of New South Wales spans two buildings and features a variety of indigenous, colonial and contemporary art collections. Everything from photography and Pablo Picasso paintings to aboriginal art and Tang dynasty ceramics can be found here. Additionally, several free artist talks and demonstrations are held throughout the year.

Recent museumgoers said the Art Gallery of New South Wales is a must-see, with a great collection and excellent exhibits. Popular pieces include the museum's indigenous paintings and iconic European works. The free tours, free entry and superb views are also a hit with past visitors, although many have noted that it can get crowded.

Chinese Garden of Friendship Chinese Garden of Friendship

Located in Darling Harbour , this gem of a garden is a little breath of fresh air in the city. The Chinese Garden of Friendship was built as a symbol of friendship between Sydney and the city of Guangzhou in China's Guangdong province (sister cities of sister states), to mark Sydney's bicentennial in 1988. Recent visitors called it a serene and beautiful place to relax.

Designed and built by Chinese landscape architects and gardeners, the walled garden follows the Taoist principles of "Yin-Yang," the opposing yet complementary and balanced forces, and "Wu-Xing," the five elements or phases – wood, fire, earth, metal and water. As you wander, you'll encounter waterfalls, lakes, exotic plants, pavilions and hidden pathways. Daily tours, included with admission, are a great way to learn about the garden.

St. Mary's Cathedral St. Mary's Cathedral free

Though the cathedral that stands today is not the original, it sits on land where the first Catholic chapel in Australia stood beginning in 1821. The St. Mary's you see today was constructed starting in 1868, with work continuing until 1928. In fact, its spires were not added until 2000. The Gothic Revival-style cathedral is home to gorgeous stained-glass windows and a crypt with a stunning mosaic floor depicting the Creation, as well as bishops' tombs and occasional special exhibits.

Recent visitors called the cathedral a beautiful and impressive place to see, noting its architecture and stained-glass windows as highlights.

Queen Victoria Building Queen Victoria Building free

From shopping and dining to history tours, the Queen Victoria Building opened in the heart of Sydney's central business district in 1898 and has grown into a major shopping destination boasting leading Australian fashion like Country Road and Anna Thomas as well as global favorites like Calvin Klein. Jewelry, lingerie, footwear and skincare stores are also on-site, as well as an Aboriginal art gallery.

When visitors tire of shopping, there are restaurants, cafes, a chocolate shop, wine bar and tea room to rest at, as well as quick-bite options like McDonald's.

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Cockatoo Island (Wareamah) Cockatoo Island (Wareamah)

The largest island on Sydney Harbour , Cockatoo Island was once a meeting place for Sydney's Indigenous First Nations People, but was later used to house convicts, build and repair ships, and also became the site of education institutions for children. Known by the area's native people as Wareamah, the island now features landmarks, structures and heritage objects that offer visitors a peek into its diverse history.

Various tour s are available, focusing on topics like the prisons, the island's history, the island's ghosts (only for adults) and the World War II ship building. (Note, these all have fees.) Travelers preferring to take a self-guided tour can take an audio tour from the visitor center for AU$6 ($4) or check out the free Talking Object Tour, where travelers can use their mobile devices to "talk" with different objects. Past travelers loved that the self-guided tour was easy, informative and interesting. There's also orienteering courses, lawn games and a harborside basketball court to keep both adults and kids entertained.

Carriageworks Carriageworks

Carriageworks is a popular arts precinct located in Redfern, an inner suburb of Sydney. Built in the 1880s as part of the Eveleigh Railway Workshops, it became a locomotive workers' hub in the 1900s and was one of the first places to exercise equality when hiring Aboriginal workers.

Since being reshaped into a cultural attraction in 2007, the multiarts center has become the largest of its kind in Australia and aims to reflect social and cultural diversity. In doing so, the center has a First Nations program that encompasses music, markets, workshops and performances, and Solid Ground, which provides education and training for local indigenous youth.

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My 15 Favorite Things to Do in Sydney

The first time I went to Sydney (all the way back in 2007), I spent most of my days sitting in the botanical gardens, reading a book, and admiring the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It was the end of my trip and all I wanted to do was relax.

Growing up, I had always heard about how wonderful and beautiful Sydney was.

And it was true. Sydney was beautiful. I rarely ever got to my book. I was too enamored watching the harbor, relaxing in the gardens, and wandering the city’s walking trails and beaches.

Over the years, I’ve visited Sydney a handful of times, exploring it more and more with each visit. I’ve developed local friends who have opened up their city to me. I’ve seen all the major attractions, stayed in most of the neighborhoods , seen most of the smaller attractions, and everything in between. I can rattle off restaurants, bars, and markets and trails with the best of them.

If you ask me, Sydney is like no other city in the world.

To help you plan your trip, here is my list of the best things to do in Sydney, from fun things to do to unusual things to see to not-so-touristy experiences. You’ll see the best of Sydney with this list and have an amazing, authentic visit!

Table of Contents

1. Explore The Rocks

2. hang out at the beach, 3. visit the royal botanic gardens and mrs. macquarie’s chair, 4. take the ferry to manly beach, 5. walk the sydney harbour bridge, 6. marvel at the sydney opera house, 7. see the blue mountains, 8. visit the museums, 9. learn to surf, 10. do a wine tasting in the hunter valley, 11. take the sydney tower skywalk, 12. walk the coastal walks, 13. explore the markets, 14. attend a cultural event, 15. party in king’s cross.

The Rocks is the oldest part of Sydney. With its narrow lanes, colonial buildings, sandstone churches, and Australia’s oldest pubs, this was the first neighborhood to be settled when the British first landed in Australia in 1788. It used to be a lot bigger but, sadly, it was almost all torn down in the 1970s for modern high rises and ugly buildings.

Luckily, citizen action got some of it preserved and these old buildings have been turned into modern businesses, homes, and tourist attractions.

The Rocks’ weekend markets, art museums, street entertainment, delicious (and sometimes overpriced) restaurants, and beautiful views of the harbor, Opera House, and bridge make it one of the coolest areas in the city. You can take a detailed walking tour around the neighborhood for 35 AUD.

If that tour doesn’t align with your schedule, you can also do a self-guided audio tour of The Rocks with Around. It covers the historic settlement, crime stories, and more!

Here’s a list of the best walking tours in the city if you want more suggestions.

Don’t miss: Sydney Observatory Hill Park for a good view of the city, wandering the harbor promenade, and hitting the bars at night.  

From Palm Beach and Manly in the north to the famous Bondi and Coogee in the south, Sydney has a beach for everyone. All the beaches are easy to get to via public transportation or car and there are tons of restaurants and surf shops lining them all. There’s also a coastal walk connecting the beaches together.

Keep in mind that the beaches, especially the more famous ones, get really crowded and should be avoided on the weekends.

Don’t miss: Manly (wide and beautiful), Bronte (small and quiet), Coogee (fun), Bondi (the most popular), Palm (chill), and Dee Why (surfing).  

Home to the oldest scientific institution in the country, the gardens are one of the most visited areas in all of Australia. Here you can also see Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a seat carved into a stone cliff, where you can sit and gaze out at the harbor. Up until 2010, there was actually a large colony of flying foxes living in the gardens, but since they were causing too much damage they were removed.

Don’t miss: The free one-hour volunteer-guided tours of the garden.

Mrs Macquaries Rd, +61 2 9231 8111, rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au. Open daily 7am-8pm. Admission is free.  

Manly, a suburb in the northern part of the city, is famous for its wide beach, giant waves, surfing, and kick-ass nightlife. The area has a completely different vibe to it than the central city and it’s a part of town a lot of tourists miss. It’s one of my favorite areas of Sydney . There are some incredible coastal walking trails on this side of the harbor too, such as the 10-kilometer (6-mile) Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal Walk.  

These days, it’s the 7th-longest spanning-arch bridge in the world. Stretching 1,149 meters (3,769 feet) over the water, it’s also the world’s tallest steel arch bridge and the widest, making it an impressive architectural accomplishment. To quote the famous travel writer Bill Bryson, “This is a great bridge.”

Don’t miss : While tours that climb the bridge are expensive (295-425 AUD), it is free to walk or bike across it for panoramic views of the harbor and Opera House.  

The building took almost 15 years to complete, opening to the public in 1973. Today, more than 8 million people visit the Opera House annually, with almost half a million taking a guided tour. Daily guided tours are available for 45 AUD and give you a whole new appreciation for just how challenging the building was to design and erect.

Tickets for a show in the Opera House vary depending on the performance but expect to pay at least 89 AUD for popular performances, however, some shows have tickets as low as 43 AUD while others are free. Check the website for the most up-to-date schedule.

Don’t miss : Don’t miss out on the guided tour. Tours cost 45 AUD and last one hour , providing tons of insight into how this iconic building came to be. It may be expensive but it’s worth every penny!

Bennelong Point, +61 2 9250 7111, sydneyoperahouse.com.

The area is free to visit and you can get there by train from Sydney, which takes around two hours. If you want to hike further afield, it’s best to stay overnight. Here are some other hikes you might want to check out if you’re looking to stretch your legs:

• Grand Canyon Track : A 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) trail that takes you through the most impressive areas of the park. The hike is a bit challenging and takes 2.5 hours but is definitely worth the effort!
• Katoomba Falls : This 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) circuit is an easy walk that takes around an hour, leading you to the waterfall as well as some great viewpoints.
• Six Foot Track : This 44-kilometer (27-mile) hike is a challenging endeavor that takes three days to complete. But if you’re looking to get off the grid and spend a few nights under the stars, this is the hike for you!

For a guided tour of the park, Activity Tpurse offers full-day wildlife-spotting tours for 169 AUD.

Don’t miss : The Three Sisters at sunset.  

And, luckily, thanks to Australia’s Commonwealth past, all the public museums in the city are free, making it a great and inexpensive activity in an otherwise expensive city.

My favorite museum in Sydney is the Hyde Park Barracks. Set in the old convict barracks from the 18th century, it does an amazing and detailed job of chronicling colonial life in Sydney, using the stories of the early settlers, historical information, artifacts, and historical recreations! It’s always the highlight of my trip. Few people visit, making it one of the best non-touristy things to do in the city!

Other museums in Sydney:

• Art Gallery of New South Wales (modern art)
• Museum of Contemporary Art Australia at The Rocks (contemporary art)
• Australian National Maritime Museum (maritime history)
• White Rabbit Gallery (contemporary Chinese art; also has a teahouse)
• The Rocks Discovery Museum (local history)
• Hyde Park Barracks Museum (local, criminal, and judicial history)
• Australian Museum (natural history)
• Justice and Police Museum (criminal museum in an old court house)
• Museum of Sydney (local history)
• Sydney Jewish Museum (Jewish history)

While Bondi is the most popular beach in the city, Manly on the north shore of Sydney is considered to have the best waves (though you can find good waves up and down the coast).

Some other great beaches for beginners are:

• Umina Beach
• Collaroy Beach
• Corrimal Beach
• Freshwater Beach

Surfboard rentals start at around 20 AUD per day while group lessons cost around 45-80 AUD.  

North of Sydney is one of Australia’s premier wine regions. The Hunter Valley is home to incredible wineries that produce some of the world’s best red wine. While visiting is not easy on the budget, it is an excuse to get out of the city, see the countryside, and do something other than sitting on the beach.

Day tours are offered from Sydney but they are expensive (200-250 AUD) and you’ll spend a lot of time on a bus. It’s best to stay for at least a night out in the valley to get the full experience. This is also a perfect activity for couples or families!

If you have a car, you can base yourself in Newcastle or Cessnock, but you’d have a more unique experience if you booked a secluded cabin or home on Airbnb as there are plenty in the area, including some that are also vineyards.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .  

At 95 AUD, it’s cheaper and easier than climbing the bridge itself, and the views are actually far better.  

Some coastal walks worth checking out are:

• Rose Bay to Watson’s Bay (easy, 2.5 hours)
• Watsons Bay to Dover Heights (easy, 1.5 hours)
• Chowder Bay to Balmoral Beach (easy, 1 hour)
• Jibbon Beach Loop Track (easy, 2 hours)

Don’t miss : Coogee-to-Bondi walk and Spit-to-Manly  

Sydney has many amazing markets to experience. At Paddington Markets, the Fish Market, Bondi Farmers Market, the Flower Market, and a whole lot more seasonal markets, it’s really easy to spend a lot of time wandering and shopping.

Personally, I love Paddington Markets and the Farmers Market the best. They draw an eclectic crowd and the farmers market makes me want to cook nonstop.

Some other markets worth checking out are:

• Glebe Market – Vintage clothes and eclectic local handicrafts as well as delicious food stalls. Open Saturdays. (glebemarkets.com.au)
• Rozelle Collectors Market – Home to antiques, clothing, DVDs, and everything in between. If you like to dig and hunt for awesome finds, this is the market for you! Open Saturdays. (rozellecollectorsmarket.com.au)
• Orange Grove Organic Market – Not only will you find fresh produce here but there are some incredible food stalls. Definitely come with an appetite! Open Saturdays. (organicfoodmarkets.com.au)

Don’t miss : Paddington Markets  

It offers art gallery nights, concerts, festivals, and much more. It wants to be seen as more of a beach destination. No matter what time of the year you visit, you will find something going on in the city!

Most of the events are free and a list of what’s going on soon can be found on the Sydney tourism website . It has dates, prices, and everything else you need!  

If you’re looking to get wild, drink here.

For a less touristy nightlife scene, head to Manly, The Rocks, or the CBD (Central Business District) where there are more locals, fewer travelers, and chiller bars and lounges (but more expensive cocktails and beers).

Sydney is a remarkable city. While some cities scream “run around and see stuff” (cough, NYC, Paris, London, cough), Sydney’s message to visitors is always “Relax, go outside, and enjoy the beautiful weather.”

Sydney is a destination that wants you to go for a walk, sit by the beach, picnic in the park, and drink wine by the bridge. Sure, there are plenty of unique things to do here and museums to keep you busy, but I find the best way to enjoy a visit to Sydney is to take it slow, see a few attractions, and, mostly, just lay outside on the beach, relax in a park, and hang at the bar with a glass of wine!

That’s the local Sydney. And that’s the best way to experience the city.

Book Your Trip to Sydney: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

Fore more suggested hostels, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in Sydney . And to figure out where to stay, here’s a list of the best neighborhoods in Sydney so you can pick the right area for your visit.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Sydney? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Sydney for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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16 iconic Sydney attractions everyone has to see at least once

Kristie Lau-Adams

Travel Journalist

20 December 2023

Some of the most magnificent landmarks on Earth arrive as must-see Sydney attractions.

The sails, the Coat Hanger, the shimmering harbour — it all comes together to create one of the world’s most recognisable scenes. Sure, Sydney offers much more than its tourist traps, such as impeccable dining experiences , hard-to-find yet achingly hip bars , breathtaking coastal walks  and dreamy day spas to unwind in , but the most iconic Sydney attractions are must-experiences at least once in your lifetime. We’ve narrowed down the best of the best to create your ultimate Sydney bucket list.

1. BridgeClimb Sydney

Don’t let the mandatory onesie deter you. Grabbing a shot of oneself, arms outstretched, atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge  is a cherished moment for every visitor. BridgeClimb Sydney  facilitates the adventure, offering a series of experiences.

Conquer the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Sydney Harbour Bridge climb has attracted familiar faces over the years including Prince Harry, Oprah Winfrey, Jamie Oliver and Kylie Minogue, perched 134 metres above the harbour to marvel in the city’s beauty. Choose from 2.5-hour to 3.5-hour small group tours or if you’re keen on getting up there alone, or with a special somebody, go for a private experience complete with post-climb dining options.

Marvel at the breathtaking harbour views from above. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Sydney Opera House Tour

Arguably the most famous of all Sydney attractions, the Sydney Opera House is captivating from every angle – including inside. There’s a range of Sydney Opera House tours and experiences  that take you behind the scenes of whatever you’re into.

Take in the iconic views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. (Image: Destination NSW)

In awe of the sheer craftsmanship? The Architectural Tour is a great pick. Fascinated by the arts? The Backstage Tour has your name on it. The in-depth experiences shed a whole new light on the attraction’s brilliance, providing a newfound appreciation for one of the world’s most unique structures.

3. Sydney Harbour Cruise

It’s beautiful to gawk at but getting out on the glistening harbour is one of the most enchanting Sydney attractions you’ll ever experience. Soothing waters are surrounded by standout structures including big guys like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Kirribilli House and Taronga Zoo  as well as palatial properties and dramatic headlands.

Hop on a Sydney boat tour. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are a bunch of reputable operators offering delightful full-day or half-day Sydney cruises as well as lunch and dinner experiences. Investigate Captain Cook Cruises , Magistic Cruises  and Sydney Harbour Boat Tours .

Cruise past the iconic Sydney Opera House. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Raging Waters Sydney

The former Wet’n’Wild Sydney is alive and kicking as Raging Waters Sydney , the city’s biggest water-based amusement park. Retaining the former park’s drawcards including its signature wave pool, Sydney’s ultimate 62-acre sunshine-friendly fun zone features more than 40 slides and attractions as well as a dedicated area for bubs.

Tackle the waterslides at Raging Waters Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW)

Some of the tallest and fastest water rides in the world can be found inside this Sydney attraction, making it worthy of a bucket list destination for adventure-seekers of all ages.

It’s a guaranteed good time. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Luna Park Sydney

While we’re on the hunt for heart-racing fun, add Luna Park Sydney  to your must-visit list. Its giant beaming face on the northern side of the harbour was constructed in 1935, just three years after the Sydney Harbour Bridge opened to traffic, so it’s deeply embedded in the city’s history.

The Luna Park Ferris Wheel lights up the harbour at night. (Image: Destination NSW)

Additionally, some of the buildings within this Sydney attraction are so cherished that they’re officially protected by the National Trust. What also makes this place unique is while you’ve got to pay for the rides, park entry to Luna Park Sydney is free so you can soak up its magic on a shoestring.

It’s the perfect day out with your family. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Sydney Tower Eye

Those afraid of heights will have to muster some courage for this one. The Sydney Tower Eye  registers as the southern hemisphere’s second-tallest observation tower, making it one of the most extraordinary Sydney attractions. Jump into one of its lightning-fast elevator rides to the Observation Deck, positioned 250 metres above ground, to spy soaring views of the entire city and beyond.

Make it to the top of the second-tallest observation tower in the southern hemisphere for sunrise. (Image: Destination NSW)

Feeling extra brave? Grab a ticket to SKYWALK, a 60-minute outdoor guided walk off the top of the building. The more timid can also indulge at Infinity, serving a la carte and tasting menus, and Bar 83, built with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Get 360-degree views of the entire city. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. The Sydney Ferry

Could there be a more scenic public transport network? The Sydney Ferry system operates throughout Sydney Harbour and Parramatta River, transporting visitors right across the city. It’s a budget-conscious way to soak up some of the city’s most beautiful vistas as 38 wharves are open.

Pass beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge onboard The Sydney Ferry. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sniff out Freshwater , travelling the Manly ferry service, to experience the fleet’s oldest continually serving vessel. The more modern RiverCat, HarbourCat and SuperCat varieties also offer memorable modes of transportation across Sydney’s iconic waterways.

The Sydney Ferry zips its way around Sydney’s iconic waterways. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Bondi Beach

It’s the beach so famous it demands its own reality TV show. Bondi Beach is one of the most iconic Sydney attractions , luring visitors from around the globe to its golden sand and aqua blue surf.

Take in dreamy coastal views at Bondi Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

There’s plenty to explore along the stretch, from the Instagram-friendly Bondi Icebergs Pool at the southern end and cultural centre of Bondi Pavilion, to all the boutiques, bars and eateries scattered within the suburb’s bustling streets and the cafe culture of the northern end. No matter where you cruise to, Bondi Beach’s hypnotising waters play the dreamiest of backdrops.

Surf and play at Bondi Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. Eat Street in Parramatta

The thriving commercial capital of Sydney’s west is home to Church Street, otherwise known at Eat Street , and some of the most delectable international dishes found in the city. Choose from Greek souvlakis, Italian carbs, Vietnamese Pho, Chinese noodles, ribs, tapas, burgers, waffles and more as you tour this Sydney attraction during the day and long into the night.

Bond over pizza at Mama and Papas on Eat Street, Parramatta. (Image: Destination NSW)

Art installations and plenty of al fresco dining make for atmospheric feasting conditions no matter your cravings. (Hot tip: Skye Suites Parramatta  is an excellent place to bed down while in town)

There are plenty of dining options, including the Bay Vista restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

10. The Rocks Market

Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 5pm, George and Playfair Streets in The Rocks come alive with The Rocks Market . Selling everything under the sun since it first launched more than 30 years ago, the Sydney attraction offers stall after stall of food, artworks, clothing, homewares, jewellery and more.

Split up via category, it serves as streamlined retail therapy as live music and entertainment bring further good vibes. It’s undoubtedly one of Sydney’s best markets  but also a longstanding domestic standout.

Score a handmade treasure from the stalls at The Rocks Market. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Barangaroo Reserve

Acknowledging Aboriginal culture and Australia’s First Nations people, Barangaroo Reserve  is a relatively new must-experience compared to the other Sydney attractions on this list. Launching as public parklands in 2015, the six-hectare space features 75,000 native plants and offers cultural tours to educate visitors on how sacred the land really is.

Nawi Cove is surrounded by ancient sandstone. (Image: Destination NSW)

Pack a picnic or just wander around the grounds as views of Sydney Harbour elevate the destination to dazzling heights. A network of cycling and walking trails also provide picture-perfect activity for the extra active.

Take in dazzling views of the harbour as you stroll around Barangaroo Reserve. (Image: Destination NSW)

Bondi isn’t the only iconic Sydney beach suburb. The city’s surf culture thrives in the northern beaches, led by Manly, a Sydney attraction  that attracts thick crowds daily. And if the sun’s out, visitors swarm Manly Beach as well as its neighbouring gems including Shelly Beach, Fairlight Beach and Little Manly Beach.

Capture a magical sunrise over Queenscliff and Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

Once you’re done lying horizontally, hit the energetic mecca of bars, cafes and restaurants  that line the streets between Manly Wharf and Manly Beach, plus trendy boutiques selling one-of-a-kind designs and treasures.

Relax by the water at Fairy Bower Pool, Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

13. South Head

The scale and sheer beauty of the Tasman Sea and Sydney Harbour are perfectly encapsulated at South Head located in Watsons Bay in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The Hornby Lighthouse is perched on a cliff at South Head, Watsons Bay. (Image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW)

Home to extraordinary natural wonders including giant cliffs, historical relics, blue-on-blue vistas, essential fish and chips and the odd bout of whale watching if you time your whale-watching visit right , South Head is a marvel in every sense. The red and white striped Hornby Lighthouse , the third lighthouse ever built in NSW, is a non-negotiable selfie stop.

South Head features one of the finest coastal walks in Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW)

14. Cockatoo Island

Stepped in history, Cockatoo Island  housed convicts in the 1800s but before then, it was a meeting place for First Nations people. Since the early days, it’s been used as a shipbuilding and repair facility, educational facility for children and more.

Explore the historical landmarks at Cockatoo Island. (Image: Destination NSW)

One of the most enriching Sydney attractions to add to your itinerary, the island is now filled with artefacts for visitors to explore as well as a distinct aura that floods you the moment you step onto the land. It’s almost as though its haunted by the fascinating characters of its past. Guided and self-guided tours help to decode its magic.

Cockatoo Island looks magical at night. (Image: Destination NSW)

15. The Strand Arcade

Luring the most fashionable from as far back as 1892 when it first opened its doors, The Strand Arcade  is a beautiful shopping complex in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. The Victorian-style arcade helped cement Sydney as a retail destination and is now heritage-listed. Its original shopfronts are stunningly recreated as exact replicas.

You’ll find boutique stores inside the Strand Arcade. (Image: Destination NSW)

As for the stores, expect the finest of indulgences including premium Australian brands like Dinosaur Designs, Rebecca Vallance, Scanlan Theodore, Haigh’s Chocolates and Aesop.

Marvel at the heritage-listed Strand Arcade. (Image: Strand Arcade)

16. Harry’s Café de Wheels

No visit to Sydney is complete without a visit to Harry’s Café de Wheels  at some stage of the day (or very late at night). The Woolloomooloo institution has been dishing up flaky pastries with potato mash and mushy peas, and hot dogs, since 1936 when it opened as a caravan out the front of the suburb’s naval docklands.

Drop by Harry’s to try the famous pies. (Image: Destination NSW)

Over the years, high-profile names have sampled its spoils including Frank Sinatra, Elton John and Richard Branson. Its success has spawned several offshoots right around the city.

Harry’s Café de Wheels is a local institution. (Image: Destination NSW)

Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sydney

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Sydney the oldest, biggest, and most beautiful of all Australian cities, lies amid a seductive intermingling of land and sea. Glide along the glittering harbor on a ferry, see the white sails of the Opera House gleaming in the sunshine, admire the graceful arch of the Harbour Bridge, and you'll see why this is one of the world's top cities.

It's hard to imagine this vibrant state capital of New South Wales was once a convict colony. In 1788, it was at Sydney Cove where Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet, established the first British colony in Australia. Today, you can explore Sydney's fabled history in the narrow, cobbled laneways and historic buildings of the Rocks, and learn about the Gadigal Aboriginal people, the traditional custodians of this land, on guided tours and at the city's excellent museums.

Sydney still fizzes with the adventurous spirit of its settlers. Climb the harbor bridge, surf the green-barrel breaks at Sydney's golden beaches, or fly over the city on a scenic tour. And the adventures don't end in the city. Wildlife-rich wilderness areas surround the city providing appealing day trip possibilities .

Discover all the best places to visit in this famous harbor city with our list of the top things to do in Sydney, Australia.

See also: Where to Stay in Sydney

1. See the Sydney Opera House

2. the sydney harbour bridge, 3. stroll around the rocks, 4. hop aboard a harbor cruise at circular quay, 5. spend a day at darling harbour, 6. smell the roses at the royal botanic garden sydney, 7. shop 'til you drop at the queen victoria building, 8. zoom up the sydney tower eye, 9. bask on sydney's beaches, 10. bike or walk around barangaroo reserve, 11. go wild at taronga zoo, 12. wander along george street, 13. enjoy a picnic in hyde park, 14. admire the masterpieces at the art gallery of new south wales, 15. visit st. mary's cathedral, 16. explore macquarie street & the state library of new south wales, 17. enjoy yum cha in chinatown, 18. find vintage treasures and colorful street art in newtown, 19. check out kings cross, where to stay in sydney for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to sydney, sydney, australia - climate chart, more exciting adventures near sydney.

One of the world's great icons, the Sydney Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the star attraction on the glittering harbor. This graceful building, shaped like shells or billowing sails, perches on a finger of land surrounded by water.

You have several options for visiting the Sydney Opera House . Snap a photo while gliding by on a harbor cruise, relax at one of the restaurants, stroll around its exterior, or take an organized tour of this magnificent structure. Inside, you'll find theaters, studios, exhibition rooms, a concert hall, and a cinema.

Book a Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour to learn about the history and get a behind-the-scenes look at this famous building. This is a flexible ticket that allows you to join any one of the tours throughout the day, departing every half hour from 9am to 5pm.

Avid photographers should head to Mrs Macquarie's Chair for one of the best photo opportunities.

The Sydney Opera House just emerged from an almost $300-million "Decade of Renewal." Among the many improvements is a renovated Concert Hall — try and catch a show here when you visit.

Author's Tip: If you happen to be in Sydney in late May or early June during the Sydney Vivid festival , stop by at night to see the white sails lit up with colorful digital art.

Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney, New South Wales

Nicknamed the "Coathanger," the Sydney Harbour Bridge is another Sydney icon. Supported by massive double piers at each end, it was built in 1932 and remains the world's largest steel arch bridge .

You can drive over it, cruise below it, chug over it on a train, or photograph it from afar. But one of the best ways to appreciate this marvel of engineering, and soak up the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, is on a climb to its 135-meter-high summit.

Scaling the bridge is one of Australia's top outdoor adventures, and you can choose from a range of different tours. Sydney BridgeClimb takes groups on an approximately 3.5-hour climb to the top of the outer arch. Tours run throughout the day, beginning with a dawn climb and ending with a night climb. You can also choose from different types of climbs, including an Indigenous storytelling experience and a climb right across the arch to the other side — the bridge connects the harbor's north and south shores.

Guided ascents of the bridge with BridgeClimbSydney include a pre-climb prep talk, safety gear, and a photo on the summit. Along the way, you'll learn all kinds of entertaining stories about the history of the bridge. One of its most famous workers was Paul Hogan, aka Crocodile Dundee, before he became famous.

To learn more about the fascinating history of the bridge's construction, visit the museum in the southeastern pier.

Address: 5 Cumberland Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Want to soak up a bit of Sydney history? Take a stroll around The Rocks . Located on a tongue of land protruding into Sydney Harbour, the Rocks historic area was once home to the Gadigal Aboriginal people. Later, it became the country's first site of European settlement.

The Rocks was named for the rocky coast on the west side of Sydney Cove where the convicts pitched their tents. Today, more than 100 heritage sites and buildings jostle along the narrow streets, including Sydney's oldest surviving house, Cadmans Cottage , built in 1816.

The first stop should be a visit to The Rocks Discovery Museum . Here, you can learn about the area's fascinating transformation from traditional Aboriginal lands to convict slum to tourist hot spot. You can also join a 30-minute free guided tour at 1pm and 1:30pm daily.

Afterward, wander around the narrow, cobbled streets. Pick up some souvenirs at the gift shops, buy handcrafted goodies at the market stalls (Friday nights, Saturdays, and Sundays), and admire Aboriginal and contemporary art in the galleries. You'll also find plenty of atmospheric little restaurants and cafés here.

Guided tours run the gamut, from Aboriginal heritage walks to photographic excursions, and if you're looking for unusual things to do in Sydney, you can book a nighttime ghost tour.

Address: 66 Harrington Street, Level 6, The Rocks, Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is famous for its sparkling waterfront setting, and one of the most popular things to do in Sydney Harbour is a sightseeing cruise. Most harbor cruises depart from Circular Quay in Sydney Cove, which is also home to the city's main ferry terminal.

Short on time? Book the two-hour Sydney Harbour Coffee Cruise , which takes you past all the harbor highlights and to some of the most scenic places in Sydney, including the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Fort Denison. Learn fascinating facts about the key sights along the way, and keep your camera ready — you'll have plenty of photo ops.

Prefer to spot some wildlife during your tour? During the annual winter whale migration, the Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise takes passengers out past Sydney Heads to view these magnificent creatures.

If you don't have time for a harbor cruise, you can still see some of the top sites on a ferry ride around the harbor. Ferries depart from Circular Quay to prime spots, such as Manly , Watsons Bay , and Taronga Park Zoo .

Author's Tip: From Circular Quay, you can easily walk to other top Sydney tourist attractions . Head south along the waterfront promenade to the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens, and a short walk to the north leads to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Rocks historic area. To the west, the free Museum of Contemporary Art, housed in an Art Deco building, displays cutting-edge, and often controversial, exhibitions.

Darling Harbour has something for everyone. Packed with tourist attractions, this waterfront precinct on the western side of Sydney's CBD is a hub for tourists and locals alike. You'll find everything here, from shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues to museums, a zoo, an aquarium, and an IMAX theater.

Families will love Madame Tussaud's; the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo; and the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, which contains the world's largest collection of Australian marine creatures. The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Entrance Ticket is a great way to get ahead of the crowds.

Nautical-minded history buffs can board a replica of Captain Cook's ship, the HMB Endeavour , at the Australian National Maritime Museum. And while you're wandering around, keep an eye out for colorful artwork along the Darling Harbour Street Art Trail .

Younger children will love the carousel, playgrounds, and water park. An IMAX and 9D theater, harbor jet boat rides, simulated flights, and racing car adventures round out the exciting attractions.

Seeking a tranquil patch of green? Slip into the Chinese Garden of Friendship , and sip tea among the willows and koi ponds.

As well as offering a one-stop shop of Sydney attractions for families, Darling Harbour also hosts an exciting line-up of events, from art exhibitions and film festivals to music concerts at the Aware Super Theatre .

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Chill out at The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney in Farm Cove. A visit to this tranquil oasis is one of the many relaxing things to do in the city for free — especially if you're in need of a nature fix — and it's only a short stroll from the Sydney Opera House.

Established in 1816, the gardens are Australia's oldest botanic garden . They encompass 30 hectares of themed gardens with towering trees, palm groves, orchids, ferns, succulents, tropical gardens, rainforest plants, herbs, and Oriental gardens.

Garden lovers will be in heaven. The Palace Rose Garden blushes with around 1,800 roses. The Glasshouse Latitude 23 and Fernery brims with tropical foliage, begonias, and orchids; and the Cadi Jam Ora - First Encounters Garden tells the story of the Gadigal people, the land's traditional custodians, and explores the relationship between people and plants.

Aboriginal cultural tours and guided walks are offered, as well as events such as bush tucker morning teas and picnics.

Wondering what's nearby? Surrounding the gardens is the Domain , a popular event venue, with open green space and sports areas. And while you're visiting the gardens, you can enjoy views of Government House , the official residence of the governor of New South Wales.

Address: Mrs Macquarie's Road, Sydney, New South Wales

If shopping is high on your agenda, head to the Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building ("QVB"). Even if you're not planning to buy anything, it's worth a visit just to admire this beautifully restored building and its colorful stained-glass windows and mosaic floors.

A high central dome surrounded by 20 smaller domes crowns this elegant building, which was originally built as a market hall between 1893 and 1898. After decades of neglect and even plans for demolition, this grand sandstone building was restored to its original state in the early 1980s.

Today, more than 200 high-end shops line its light-filled galleries. Australian stores include R.M. Williams, Lorna Jane, and Haigh's chocolates, as well as many Aussie designer boutiques, and you'll also find homeware stores, gift stores, and galleries.

Feeling peckish? The Tea Room QVB hosts a popular High Tea under crystal chandeliers.

You can access the QVB from Town Hall Station through underground arcades.

If you want to learn more about the history of this magnificent heritage building, sign up for a 45-minute QVB History Tour .

Address: 455 George Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Soaring above the city skyline, the 309-meter-high Sydney Tower Eye is the city's tallest building and one of its great landmarks (other than the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, of course). This golden spire-topped turret rises from the busy Centrepoint shopping mall.

Zooming up the Sydney Tower Eye is one of the popular things to do in the Sydney CBD for tourists. Express lifts whisk visitors to the observation deck at the top, or to SKYWALK, an alfresco glass-floor viewing platform, the perfect spot for sightseeing. While you're up here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sydney and its surrounding suburbs, or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the revolving restaurants or the café.

Also on offer is a 4D cinema experience, which provides an overview of the city's major icons.

Address: 100 Market Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is famous for its beautiful beaches . Tucked around the harbor are many sheltered coves with calm water and sugary sands.

You don't need to venture far from the CBD to find an inviting stretch of sand and sea. Iconic Bondi Beach is less than a 15-minute drive from the city, with great surf, a buzzing café scene, and a cosmopolitan vibe. For fantastic ocean views, take the coastal walk along the cliffs from Bondi to Coogee Beach .

If you're traveling by public transport, Cronulla is the only beach accessible by train from the city, and Manly Beach is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay . Here, you can swim in the surf or the netted ocean pool, take a surf lesson, or stroll along the beachfront promenade and stop in at the excellent shops and restaurants.

Farther north of the city, surfers will find some fantastic breaks at Collaroy , Dee Why , and Narrabeen . Swimming is enjoyable at most Sydney beaches — especially during the summer months — but you should always stay between the red and yellow flags.

Barangaroo Reserve is an excellent example of a successful urban renewal project. Named after the influential female Indigenous leader at the time of European colonization, the area was transformed from an unsightly container terminal and opened to the public in 2015 with a commitment to sustainability and enhancing community wellbeing.

With more than 75,000 native trees and shrubs, as well as walking and cycling tracks, this 22-hectare waterfront precinct is a lovely spot for a stroll or bike along the harbor. You'll also find shops, restaurants, and event and exhibition space here.

One of the most popular things to do at Barangaroo is the Wulugul Walk . This scenic waterfront promenade skirts the six-hectare re-created Sydney Harbour headland at the reserve's northern end and extends for two kilometers between Walsh Bay and Darling Harbour .

Along the way, you can admire an evocative series of public art installations. Keep an eye out for shell wall , a 22-meter-tall vertical panel on the side of a building at the reserve's southern gateway, created by two of Australia's leading Indigenous artists. You can learn about the area's rich Indigenous heritage on an Aboriginal cultural tour .

In 2023, a new recreation space opened in Barangaroo as part of the planned Harbour Park open space on Sydney's foreshore. Bring the kids here to bounce around in the play area and challenge each other to a game of handball. Parents can work out in the outdoor gym or relax in the shady sitting areas.

Barangaroo is only a four-minute walk from Wynyard station, and you can also catch a ferry direct to the new Barangaroo Wharf.

At Taronga Zoo , you can see all your favorite animals, as well as spectacular city views. Nestled on a point along the north side of the harbor, the zoo inhabits prime Sydney real estate in the posh suburb of Mosman, and it's one of the top things to do with kids in Sydney .

Here, you can enjoy close-up encounters with iconic Aussie wildlife and other animals from around the world. Highlights include the African Savannah exhibit, Tiger Trek, chimpanzees, and gorillas.

Daily keeper presentations and animal shows add to all the fun. Feed the giraffes, meet the Asian elephants, get up close to a cuddly koala, or make friends with a meerkat. Another bonus: Entertaining shows are included with your entry ticket, including a Seals for the Wild presentation and a Free Flight Birds show.

The zoo's lively events calendar includes "Roar and Snore" overnight zoo stays and a summer concert series. You can purchase a Sydney Taronga Zoo Entry Ticket in advance, which includes a ride on the Sky Safari gondola.

Want to stay longer? Book a room at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga . This unique eco-retreat on the zoo grounds gives you after-hours viewings of some of the animals, as well as all kinds of other perks.

From the city, buses to the zoo depart from Wynyard. Better still, hop aboard a ferry at Circular Quay .

Address: Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, New South Wales

Bustling George Street, in the heart of the city, is Australia's oldest street. Once a nameless track trodden by convicts fetching supplies of water, it's now one of the city's major traffic arteries. It's worth exploring to feel the pulse of this vibrant city and browse the shops.

You'll see a mix of architectural styles here. Gleaming high-rise office blocks brush shoulders with historic buildings. A highlight is the elegant Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building replete with graceful domes, stained-glass windows, and high-end stores.

Nearby, the Sydney Town Hall (1869) is a major city landmark sporting a medley of architectural styles (it's been compared to a richly decorated wedding cake). Another architectural standout is the neo-Gothic St. Andrew's Cathedral , completed and consecrated in 1868.

Need a shopping fix? You'll find plenty of high-end shops in the Queen Victoria Building , and designer boutiques and jewelry stores line the Victorian-style Strand Arcade . If you're looking for more accessible name brands, Pitt Street Mall , one block east of George Street, is one of the city's major shopping precincts.

Named after Hyde Park in London, Sydney's Hyde Park is Australia's oldest park . It's a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city and a lovely spot for a picnic. Sprawling lawns, shady picnic spots, flowers, fountains, and fig trees provide a welcome escape, and the park offers prime people-watching - especially at lunch when city workers come here to kick off their shoes.

Several monuments and memorials punctuate this popular 16-hectare green space. The park's bronze Archibald Fountain (1932) commemorates Australia's alliance with France during WWI, and the Art Deco Anzac War Memorial (1934), in the southern half of the park, honors its victims.

At the north end of Hyde Park, in Queens Square, are three fine Georgian buildings, masterpieces of the convict architect Sir Francis Greenway: Hyde Park Barracks , St. James' Church , and the Supreme Court . Built by convict labor in 1817-19, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks was restored to its original condition in 1975-84 and now houses a museum on the history of Sydney, portraying the lives of the first involuntary "settlers."

On the east side of Hyde Park is the Australian Museum , with the largest natural history collection in the country.

Address: Elizabeth Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/explore/facilities/parks/major-parks/hyde-park

Surrounded by beautiful parklands, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the country's most distinguished art museums. The building dates from 1885 and houses spacious, light-filled galleries and Grand Courts, with collections ranging from works by European masters and Asian artists to evocative contemporary art from around the world. The gallery also houses one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia .

Currently, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is undergoing a transformation and expansion -The Sydney Modern Project - which includes the addition of a brand new sustainable building, a public art garden, and a grand forecourt, as well as restoration of the historic building. Once completed in late 2022, the museum will occupy double the exhibition space, flowing between indoor and outdoor spaces, and will continue to be a major destination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

After admiring all the masterpieces, you can relax at the café or restaurant, or browse the gallery gift shop.

Address: Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/

Facing Hyde Park, St. Mary's Cathedral (1868-82) is a symbol of the spiritual beginnings of the Catholic Church in Australia. This striking landmark, in neo-Gothic style, is the seat of the Archbishop of Sydney.

Topped by twin spires, the building was modeled on Lincoln Cathedral, and its imposing façade reflects the design of Notre-Dame in Paris. Inside the cathedral, intricate stained-glass windows cast beautiful patterns of light. Christmas is an especially evocative time to visit, when the cathedral is adorned with lights and decorations.

Location: St. Mary's Road and College Street, Sydney, New South Wales

Official site: http://www.stmaryscathedral.org.au/

Stretching from Hyde Park in the south to the Sydney Opera House in the north, Macquarie Street was once Sydney's most fashionable street. Governor Macquarie commissioned the construction of many of the colony's grand public buildings along this strand, some designed by convict architect Francis Greenway. Impressive sandstone residences soon followed, with verandas to capture the beautiful views of the surrounding parklands and Sydney Harbour.

In 1816, the completion of Sydney Hospital on Macquarie Street encouraged doctors to set up offices nearby. However, the hospital's capacity exceeded demand, and legislative offices moved into some of its buildings. Today, Parliament House occupies the hospital's northern wing and is open to the public when the New South Wales Parliament is in session.

A top attraction on Macquarie Street is the State Library of New South Wales , the oldest library in Australia. Among its jewels are the journals of Captain Cook and Joseph Banks , as well as Captain Bligh's log from the Bounty. The permanent and temporary exhibitions here are always worth visiting, and you can relax with a snack in the café or pick up a quirky Australian souvenir at the gift shop.

You'll also find The Mint on Macquarie Street in the southern wing of the former hospital. It's now home to a library, central courtyard, and café.

Official site: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/

Inhale the fragrance of sizzling Szechuan spices, shop for Chinese specialty items, or feast on authentic Asian cuisine at Sydney's Chinatown. Framed by lion gates at each end, this small district lies in the pedestrian zone of Dixon Street, between Darling Harbour and Central Station.

Yum cha is a popular pastime here, and the Friday night market is a feast for the senses, with everything from dim sum and Vietnamese pho to teppanyaki. On the first full moon after January 21, the streets of Chinatown come alive during the celebration of the Chinese New Year.

Near Chinatown, Paddy's Markets at Haymarket is a Sydney institution from Wednesdays through Sundays, with hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, bargain fashions, and souvenirs.

Address: Dixon Street, Haymarket, New South Wales

Fashionistas, take note: fun and funky Newtown is a hot spot for vintage treasures and thrift store shopping. You'll find this hipster-packed inner-city suburb about a 10-minute drive from the city center.

One-of-a-kind pieces cram the racks in the best boutiques here. Favorites include The Wilde Merchant selling everything from retro tees to workwear and Japanese pieces, while Storeroom Vintage displays rare music tees and other hand-picked gems from the 70s to the 2000s. Stitch Up Sydney specializes in collectible band tees and designer sneakers. Real King Vintage also sells vintage T-shirts, as well as sportswear and preloved goodies from top brands like Tommy Hilfiger Nike, Carharrt, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Is Western wear and Americana more your jam? Head to Route 66 .

After hitting all the hottest vintage shops, fuel up with a snack at one of the area's eclectic restaurants and cafés — you'll find everything here from Turkish cuisine and Thai food to Italian trattorias. Then polish it off with an award-winning gelato from Cow & the Moon — their Mandorla Affogato flavor once won the "best in the world" award.

Newtown is also famous for its vibrant street art . Start with the "I have a dream" mural on King Street, and keep your eyes peeled. You'll find other murals popping from the walls on Lennox Street, Mary Street, and Bedford Street to name a few.

Author's Tip: About a five-minute drive from Newtown, the Markets at Glebe is one of the best places to find deals on designer vintage treasures — from pre-loved designer clothing, shoes, and accessories to hand-crafted jewelry and cutting-edge creations from new local designers. The markets are open every Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

About two kilometers east of the CBD, Kings Cross is Sydney's multi-faceted red light district and the city's nightlife hub . If you're interested in experiencing an edgier part of the city, this is a great place to visit. You can also catch a play at one of the theaters.

Called "The Cross" by locals, it has an intriguing, Bohemian past. The area was an artistic quarter around 1920, until it evolved into a popular haunt for beatniks during the 1950s and later, hippies. During the Vietnam War, the area started its slow slide to depravity when large numbers of American troops came here on "rest and recreation" leave. You can find out more about the area's spicy history on a guided walking tour.

Despite the area's less-than-savory reputation at night, it wears a different face during the day. Backpackers from the many hostels in the area huddle at hip cafés . Boutique hotels shelter fashionistas, and foodies come here to dine at the trendy restaurants.

To find Kings Cross, look for the large Coca-Cola billboard, at the intersection of William Street and Darlinghurst Road. It's a famous Sydney landmark and is often referred to as the "Gateway to The Cross."

For first-time visitors to Sydney, a fantastic base for sightseeing is The Rocks , the city's historic district. Spectacular harbor views, heritage-listed buildings, museums, shops, galleries, and cute courtyard cafés make this a great place to stay. From here, many of Sydney's top tourist attractions are within easy walking distance, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Also a short stroll from here is Circular Quay, the departure point for harbor cruises and ferries. Here are some highly rated hotels in the area :

Luxury Hotels :

• Deluxe hotel options include the harborfront Park Hyatt , one of the country's top hotels; The Langham, Sydney ; and the Four Seasons ; all with stunning harbor views.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Near Wynyard Station, the Little National Hotel Sydney offers affordable, compact rooms with comfy beds.
• For families and travelers seeking apartment-style accommodation, Sky Suites Sydney is a top choice, with studios and one- and two-bedroom suites.
• The 90-room boutique Ovolo 1888 Sydney Harbour occupies a heritage-listed old wool store and factory. Bold, contemporary interior design contrasts with the historic building.

Budget Hotels :

• For cost-conscious travelers, The Australian Heritage Hotel and The Mercantile Hotel offer affordable rooms in a superb location.

In contrast to the regular and spacious layout of the younger Australian cities, Sydney is a complicated maze of one-way streets and narrow lanes. Public transport or tours are highly recommended for first-time visitors.

• See the Sights: For the best introduction to the sights of Sydney, book a Sydney and Bondi Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour , which stops near the major sights in the city center, around the harbor, and Bondi Beach. Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours, and you can hop on and off the bus as often as you please.
• Save Money : Planning to visit several Sydney tourist attractions? Save money on admission by purchasing a Sydney Attractions Pass . You can choose from a combination of two, three, or four attractions, such as WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the Sydney Tower Eye, and more.
• Take a Day Trip : Just a short drive outside the city is some spectacular mountain scenery. If you have time for just one day trip, take the Blue Mountains Nature and Wildlife Day Tour from Sydney . This small group tour provides pickup and drop-off from your hotel, lunch, entrance fee to the Featherdale Wildlife Park, and a guide.

One of the most beautiful cities in Australia, Sydney is surrounded by plenty of enticing day trip destinations. The World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains has some of the best hikes in Australia ; the beautiful Hunter Valley is a hot spot for foodies; and Canberra , the nation's capital, is only a three-hour drive away.

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The Best Sydney Itinerary | How To Spend 4-7 Days Exploring Sydney

Looking for the best Sydney itinerary? Well, you’ve come to the right place. I lived in Sydney for a full year while on the incredible working holiday Visa program, and it instantly became one of my favorite cities worldwide.

While I, unfortunately, don’t live there anymore, Sydney will always be a second home to me. Sydney really does have it all. Amazing beaches, delicious food, fantastic atmosphere, iconic landmarks, and super friendly locals.

I really believe there is no better place to start your Australian vacation than in this remarkable city. And I hope this Sydney itinerary will help you figure out how to spend your time in the city.

The Ultimate Sydney Itinerary for Trip Planning!

Whether you’ve only got two, three, four, five, or a full 7 days in Sydney – this itinerary and travel guide will go over the best things to do in Sydney, places to visit, and helpful travel tips .

So without further adieu, let’s dive into my thoroughly detailed itinerary for your Sydney trip planning needs!

Sydney Itinerary Day 1: Explore Bondi Beach & Coastal Walk

There’s simply no better place to start your vacation in Sydney than the world-famous and iconic suburb of Bondi Beach. Filled with trendy cafes, shopping malls, and gorgeous people – you will surely fall in love with Bondi.

In fact, you could easily spend a full week here alone, trying all the amazing breakfast hotspots, relaxing on the beach, and catching some waves.

Tip: Bondi Beach is a top-notch location for people trying to learn how to surf.

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BONDI BEACH:

• Watch the sunrise
• Go swimming
• Relax on the beach
• Learn how to surf
• Visit Bondi Icebergs Club
• Explore Bondi Pavilion
• Stroll through Bondi Markets
• Eat breakfast at Chapter One | Café & Wine Room
• Stop for lunch at Bondi Tony’s Burger Joint
• Head to Bondi Junction for some shopping

If you’re looking for surf lessons, I recommend checking out “ Let’s Go Surfing ”. While I haven’t personally used them before, they really are the best in the business.

“The golden sands and crystal waters of Bondi Beach continue to capture hearts all around the world. As Bondi’s only officially licensed surf school on Australia’s most famous beach , our team of passionate and experienced Surf Instructors has been changing lives one wave at a time since 1995. Home to Australia’s oldest surf lifesaving club, funky beach bars, restaurants, urban-style shops, and hip markets Let’s Go Surfing and Bondi is an experience not to be missed. Australia’s greatest surf experience on Australia’s Greatest Beaches.”

THE FAMOUS BONDI BEACH TO COOGEE COASTAL WALK

No visit to Sydney would be complete without strolling along the unbelievably scenic path between Bondi and Coogee Beach. It’s one of the best tourist attractions in the city, and I’ll honestly never forget my first time doing this trek.

I don’t care if you have only 2 days in Sydney or a full week – this is a must-do when visiting Sydney. The path is super easy to follow and will lead you around to all of the best beaches in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, from Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte, Waverly, Clovelly, Gordons Bay, and ending in Coogee Beach.

Bondi → Bronte Beach  = 2.5 km (1.55 miles)

Bronte → Coogee Beach  = 3.5 km (2.18 miles)

In total, the distance is about 6 km (3.7 miles), and you really should spend around 4 – 5 hours completing the Bondi to Coogee walk. There are many photo opportunities along the way, things to do, and spots to relax.

I love the great atmosphere along the path, and you’ll learn how much of an outdoors-focused and active city Sydney is. Locals use this path as their daily exercise route, and I can’t imagine a better place to burn some calories each day.

Coogee Beach Pavilion

At this point of the day, you’re probably going to be ready for a big meal and cocktail, and there’s no better place to do that than the rooftop bar at Coogee Pavillion . When I lived in Sydney, I would come to this spot every Sunday, and it’s one of my favorite restaurants/bars in the city.

“A beautifully styled oasis overlooking Coogee Beach, featuring four bars and a sweeping balcony. Our rooftop is all about breezy good vibes. Depending on the size of your event, you can commandeer the whole floor or one of four eclectic indoor bars. Sample Mediterranean-inspired food, amongst eccentrically styled surrounds. The beachside location and outlook over Wedding Cake Island are spectacular. And who doesn’t love a rooftop party?”

Sydney Itinerary Day 2: Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks, and Opera House

What would you say are the most iconic buildings in the world? The Colosseum, the Eiffel Tower, the Great Wall of China, and of course, the Sydney Opera House. Visiting one of the most famous Sydney sights and getting up close and personal is a must-do. And there’s so much to do around this part of the city.

Here are a few ideas of how to best spend your time exploring the Sydney Harbour:

On my first day in Sydney, my mate Troy brought me to this bar. We chatted about how excited I was to move to Sydney as we drank beers and started out at the massive Sydney Harbour Bridge. It was one of the most surreal settings and a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours.

“Situated right by the water’s edge, Opera Bar is often described as the best beer garden in the world. Be swept away by the panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, CBD, and the beautiful harbor. Whether it’s breakfast, a lazy lunch, a pre-show dinner date, or simply a cocktail; Opera Bar is truly perfect for any occasion .”

What I love about the Opera Bar is that it’s an awesome experience at any time of the day.  Whether you want to stop here for a midday drink or meal, watch the sunset, or keep the party going until night – there aren’t many bars in Sydney with this stunning view.

Self-Guided Walking Tour through “The Rocks”

“This walk explores The Rocks , the oldest part of Sydney situated on the western shores of Sydney Cove, an area steeped in history. The Rocks were the first European settlement in Australia, established by Captain Arthur Phillip of England in 1788 as a penal colony. The original buildings were built using blocks of local sandstone – hence the name The Rocks.”

To make the most of your walk, you should have at least half a day. Although the walk can be done in a much quicker time.

But if you want to continue on to the steps that lead up to the pedestrian walkway on the Harbour Bridge to leisurely walk across the bridge and return by ferry, allow a full day.

The Harbour Bridge part of the walk involves steep areas and steps, so if you have a mobility problem, you might prefer to end your walk in The Rocks.

Walk Across the Sydney Harbour Bridge | Pylon Lookout

Walking across this magnificent beast is easily one of the best free things to do in Sydney, and I’d say is a must for everyone coming to Australia. The views you get on both sides of the bridge are completely stunning, and you’ll also get some really epic photos of the Sydney Harbour. It doesn’t take long at all and is just overall a really simple yet fantastic experience. 

Trust me – just do it!

This is also where you’ll find one of the best views and popular Instagram spots in the city – the Pylon Lookout . While you do have to pay to enter (see entrance rates below), it really is worth it.

It’s also an amazing exhibition where you’ll learn all about the history of the bridge, which I personally think is fascinating.

“Come and see the fantastic views of the city, the harbor, and the world-famous icon – the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There are 200 stairs to the Pylon Lookout, 87 meters above mean sea level, but on the way up there are 3 levels of exhibits where you will discover the history and construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the men who built it, and the vision of JJC Bradfield, chief engineer.”

Milson’s Point & Luna Park

If you do walk across the Harbour Bridge (from The Rocks), you’ll end up in the charming suburb of Milson’s Point. This is one of my favorite areas in Sydney (mainly for photography purposes), and I’ve spent countless hours here wandering around, looking for different vantage points.

Take a photographic stroll through Bradfield Park, ride one of the rides at the famous Luna Park, and enjoy some scenic views of Sydney Harbour from the parks above Lavender Bay.  It’s simply a fantastic area to visit during the day and at night, and I know it’ll make you fall in love with Sydney as much as I have.

You can also take the ferry from Milsons Point back to Circular Quay after you finish.

The Sydney Opera House Tour

https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/visit-us/tours-and-experiences.html

Why come all the way to Sydney without learning a thing or two about its most iconic landmark? This quick tour is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and is really a great way to learn all about the Opera House.

Duration : 1 Hour

Price : $20.78+ U.S.D ( Read Reviews )

“Delight in an in-depth tour to the Sydney Opera House , and learn the history and stories behind this UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmark.

Join your informative tour guide as you wander through elegant foyers and performance halls. Take an audience seat on custom-made birch chairs, and imagine the thousands of concerts, operas, and ballet performances held on the grand stage.

Listen to the inspiring yet challenging 15-year journey of architect Jorn Utzon as you visit areas normally closed off to the general public. Admire the Opera House’s ceramic exterior, evoking yacht sails along the Sydney Harbour.

Upgrade your tour and enjoy a delicious meal set from the Portside Sydney Opera House. Feast on roasted salmon and chicken sliders, and mini cream puffs as you gaze at the skyline along Sydney Harbour.”

Royal Botanic Gardens | Sunset at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair

“The Royal Botanic Garden is a verdant oasis in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.”

To wrap up your time exploring Sydney Harbour, you’ll want to spend at least an hour or so walking through the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens. It’s a relaxing place to take a stroll, have a picnic, and enjoy stunning views of the entire harbor.

It’s also home to some of the best music festivals in Australia , and there’s pretty much always something fun going on in this massive park.

One of the best spots in the park is the iconic Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, which is easily one of my favorite places in the entire city. Every night during sunset, you’ll see tons of locals and tourists admiring the view of the sun slowly dipping beneath the city in the distance.

The way the sky lights up in different shades of pink and orange really makes the Opera House and Sydney Harbour really pop. This is one of the best photography places in the city, and you’ll definitely spot at least one or two different photographers with tripods taking photos every night.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

“Absorb a 360-degree panorama of Sydney as you journey to the summit on our original Climb experience. Like an exposed spine, the outer rim delivers you to the peak, as the sky remains just beyond your outstretched fingertips.”

If you’re afraid of heights, then this activity probably isn’t for you, but for all the adrenaline junkies planning a trip to Sydney – this should definitely be at the top of your list. In fact, this was actually voted as the #1 Traveller’s Choice in Australia and #4 Globally, so you know it’s pretty much loved by everyone who’s conquered it.

I haven’t done this yet, but I’ve already promised myself that I wouldn’t go back to Sydney without doing it.

Price:  $268 ( Read Reviews )

• 3 ½ hours long, max. 14 people per group.
• 1,332 steps (that’s around 500 calories or 2,100 kilojoules for those tracking)
• Ideal if you want to soak up the moment and take the upper arch.
• Perfect if you’re a bit nervous and would like more support from our Climb Leaders.
• You can do this climb at dawn (limited departures), twilight, or night.

Sydney Itinerary Day 3: Watson’s Bay, Beaches & South Head Heritage Trail

Sydney has a wide variety of different neighborhoods and suburbs to explore, but I think Watson’s Bay is one of the best. I’ve been here two different times now, and on each visit, I’ve found something new to appreciate about it.

Getting to Watsons Bay is super easy. It requires you to take a ferry from Circular Quay to Watson’s Bay – this is super scenic and only takes 27 minutes. Hopping on this ferry is reason enough to make your way out there, but you’ve got lots to explore once you arrive.

The Gap Park Lookout

This place is absolutely stunning, and there’s a cool walking trail that will lead you up to different vantage points of the sandstone cliffs. While this is actually a stop along the South Head Heritage Trail, I actually always just went straight here after getting off the ferry.

The view out to sea from the various lookouts is magnificent, but I can’t help thinking briefly about the negative aspects of The Gap – which is a known suicide spot.

Luckily, an emergency phone to Lifeline (13 11 14) is prominently placed near the steps to prevent this from happening.

Soon, the beauty of my surroundings, the sun sparkling on the water, and the hope of spotting a whale distract me.

“When international director and closet ghoul Alfred Hitchcock visited Sydney in the sixties, this was his infamous point of reference. Locals know, and tourists do not, that this is the last stop for the desperate few, it’s also a beautiful location for a spectacular scenic cliff top walk that begins at The Gap Park .”

South Head Heritage Trail

You could actually spend all day just enjoying all the different stops along this walk. While it isn’t very time-consuming, it is loaded with historical importance, pristine beaches, nude beaches (Lady Bay), epic views, lighthouses, and so much more.

“The short South Head Heritage Trail offers something for everyone: incredible beach and harbor views, a glimpse into the history and excellent whale-watching opportunities.

Starting at Camp Cove Beach in Watsons Bay, this short walk takes you on a stroll along a 1870s cobblestone road past Lady Bay Beach. Before reaching the historic Hornby Lighthouse with its distinctive red and white stripes.

Take some time to explore the gun emplacements and keep your eyes open if you’re there during whale watching season.

The spectacular views of Sydney are sure to astound you. With the Sydney Harbour to the west, Middle and North Head to the north, and the expansive Pacific Ocean to the east, the scenery will leave you wanting to explore more of Sydney Harbour National Park.

I feel like most tourists skip this place when visiting Sydney, and I think that’s a complete shame.

Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel

You simply can’t come to Watsons Bay without getting at least a drink or a meal at this hotel.

Side Note : Did you know that Australians use the word “hotel” for a bar? I had no idea until I got to Australia, and I thought it was so weird. Why, you may be wondering?

Well, “a pub, short for Public House, is an establishment whose main function is to serve alcohol, mostly beer. It’s also known as an Alehouse or Tavern. The reason for this is that until recently, in Australia (the late 1980s), pubs were forced, by the liquor laws, to provide accommodation and so were accurately called hotels.” 

Thanks to Midland Hotel for that quick little history lesson!

“Grounded on the sandy shoreline of one of Sydney’s most iconic harbor beaches, Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel is the perfect destination for those pursuing sun, fresh seafood platters, seasonal fare, and icy cold refreshments while overlooking Sydney’s spectacular harbor.”

Sounds pretty great, hey?

After a long day of exploring and photographing the gorgeous coastlines and walking trails in Watsons Bay, make sure you pop in here for a beer or a sunset and even book a night’s accommodation at the hotel if you want.

It’s one of Sydney sider’s favorite hotels and has won awards like “Hotel of the Year”, “Best Social Media”, and “2020 Traveller’s Choice Award” from TripAdvisor in the past. 

Trust me – you want to visit this place. You also can’t really miss it, because it’s the first place you’ll see when you get off the ferry.

Photo via Watsons Bay

Sydney Itinerary Day 4: Sydney CBD & Suburbs

After spending 4 days in Sydney, you’ll realize that it is a pretty massive city, and I feel like people always forget that. While the main downtown area or Central Business District (CBD for short) is small compared to cities like New York or London – Sydney is just a massive county with many different areas to explore.

A few of my favorites include: 

Newtown : If you’re looking for the cultural hub or artistic district in Sydney, then this is where you need to go. It can be difficult to explain, but it’s easily the most unique suburb in the city.  It’s filled with live-music venues, gay bars, graffiti walls, street singers, a huge dog-friendly park, and an amazing variety of food options.

If you only come to Newtown for one meal, then you’ve got to visit the ever-so-popular Mary’s Bar . 

I think this video below perfectly encapsulates Mary’s and the vibe you’ll find in Newtown

Surry Hills : This is another extremely trendy and hip suburb in Sydney, and you could easily forget you’re actually in Sydney while walking up and down its hilly roads. It’s got amazing food, top-notch art, an excellent nightlife, and is centrally located, making it easy to get to.

“On the southern fringe of Sydney’s CBD, you’ll stumble across the suburb of Surry Hills – a gritty, creative, and foodie-filled enclave. It’s arguably the creative heart of Sydney and a mandatory pop-in for anyone visiting the harbor city.

The Polly Pocket-sized suburb is home to fashion designers, creative agencies, and tech start-ups, along with professionals, young hipsters, the drug-addicted and homeless.”

Check out this amazing article about “ 10 of the best things to do in Surry Hills ”, which will definitely keep you busy if you decide to take a visit. All the food recommendations are 100% worth it, especially trying out Sydney’s favorite Gelato Messina.

Photo via Eat Play Love Travel

Crows Nest – “Crowie” for short (because Australians shorten every word they can) is a small suburb in the North Shore and one of my favorite areas to go pub/hotel hopping. There always seem to be great deals, amazing meals, and delicious craft beers. It’s also been named “the most livable Suburb in Sydney” and goes by the motto – The Nest is the Best.   

“Getting its name thanks to its elevated position – it’s one of the highest points of all of the northern suburbs. Crows Nest is home to a strip of family-owned, mid-range restaurants, with a bunch of Vietnamese, Thai, and Japanese joints dotted along the Pacific Highway and tucked up behind the major arterial road.”  – Time Out Crows Nest Guide

If you’re free at night, then I’d definitely recommend making your way to Crows Nest for a night out. Not sure where to start? Just make your way to The Hayberry Bar & Diner for burgers, booze, Blues, and Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Sydney Itinerary Day 5: Sydney Day Trip

If you’ve got one week in Sydney, then I think you should spend at least one day outside the city exploring one of the best day trips. There are some really amazing options to choose from, but here are my top 3 recommendations:

Blue Mountains Full-Day Trip with Cruise

Price : $124.10

Duration : Full-Day

https://www.getyourguide.com/sydney-l200/blue-mountains-3-rides-no-lunch-day-tour-t68335/

The scenic Blue Mountains National Park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for a good reason. This explosion of biodiversity boasts incredible views of the Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters – a colossal sandstone formation and sacred Aboriginal site.

“Discover the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains on a full-day tour that takes you to Featherdale Wildlife Park. See various native Australian animals, stop at Echo Point for panoramic views, and enjoy 3 different rides at Scenic World.”

Read Reviews & Check Availability

Photo via GetYourGuide

Jervis Bay Sydney Day Trip

Want to visit some of the whitest sand beaches in the world? Then you need to make your way down to Jervis Bay, which is one of Australia’s most popular seaside destinations. While this seaside oasis has a low swell and is not the best for surfing, it is known as a great beach for families.

And although ideally, I think you should spend more than one day down there (as it is quite far from the city), it is a truly stunning place that I think is worth visiting.

Read my article titled “ The Perfect Weekend Getaway Exploring the New South Wales Coast ” to get a better understanding of what to expect.

In fact, if you have the time, I’d definitely recommend renting a car and driving down the coast for a two or three-day road trip like I did.

Hunter Valley Wine Tasting

Who else loves wine? Well, you may not know this, but Australia is home to some of the best vineyards and wineries in the entire world. I actually did my first-ever wine tasting in the Yarra Valley, and it was one of my favorite experiences I’ve had in Australia.

Located just a couple hours’ drive from downtown Sydney, the Hunter Valley would be an amazing destination for a full day of wine tasting.

Price : $137.20

Duration : 11 Hours

From Sydney: Hunter Valley Wine/Spirit Tasting Tour & Lunch – “Get ready for a diverse tour exploring the Hunter Valley wine region, tasting some of Australia’s best wine, food, cheese, chocolate, beer, and distilled spirits.”

Sydney Itinerary Day 6: Manly Beach

With its gorgeous beaches, scenic coastal walks, and stunning snorkeling spots — Manly should be on everyone’s Sydney itinerary.

I spent two full days around Manly Beach, and now I’m a strong advocate that it’s easily one of the best suburbs in Sydney. If you get the chance, definitely make it out this way for more than just a day trip.   

With that being said, if you get to Manly Beach earlier on in the day, you can squeeze in quite a lot.

I’ve actually written a destination itinerary before, so take a read through this article: How to Spend Two Days Exploring Manly Beach, Sydney . 

This will go over some really amazing food options, activities, and much more to keep you busy during your day while exploring Manly.

Manly Beach to Spit Bridge Coastal Walk

If you’re not too tired out already from a busy 5 days in Sydney, then I think the Manly Beach to Spit Bridge Coastal Walk is a fantastic way to spend your day. But only if it’s sunny and warm outside. Just a fair warning though – this trek is around 10 km (6.2 miles) and really does require a chunk of the day.

The views you get of Sydney Harbour are truly magnificent, though. And I think it leads you around to some of the most famous beaches in the entire city. I haven’t done this hike in many years, but it definitely left a solid impression.

Whenever I return to Sydney, I know I will make it a priority to complete this Manly to Spit Bridge coastal trek again.

Sydney Itinerary Day 7: Endless Options

The truth is completing everything I’ve mentioned in this 7-day Sydney itinerary will be quite challenging in such a short amount of time. That’s why I’m going to leave this final day a little bit more open and flexible.

There really is no shortage of amazing things to do in Sydney, and I’m sure you’ll want some free time to just go with the flow and see what happens.

With that being said, here are a few more things that I think could be an awesome addition to your time in Sydney and that you could easily fit into your last day.

Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo : Want to see gorgeous giraffes with the Sydney Opera House in the background? Well, you can totally do that. While I haven’t been here personally, I think this is a Sydney must-do for anyone traveling with kids.

“Enjoy a fun-filled day at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo. Start your day off with a cruise along the Sydney Harbour. See impressive landmarks such as the iconic Sydney Opera House. Arrive at Taronga Zoo, home to over 350 different animal species with eight unique environments to explore. The zoo offers abundant activities, from animal encounters to daily educational talks.”  

Adults = $35.18 USD

Children = $19.98 USD

The Taronga Zoo is easily reachable by ferry, and tickets are cheaper when you purchase them online.

Darling Harbour : I can’t believe I made it to the last day of this Sydney 7-day itinerary without mentioning Darling Harbour. This place is 100% a must-visit in the city, and I think you must come here at night. This place really comes alive every evening. The promenade is loaded with amazing restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

It’s also the location of some of Sydney’s best tourist attractions, like the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, the Wildlife Zoo, the Chinese Garden, and much more.

“There’s really nowhere in the world quite like Darling Harbour . From first light to starry nights, there’s always something going on here. Coffee machines froth, water laps, children play, friends chat, steaks sear, glasses clink, and bass thumps. Infectious sounds travel on harbor breezes as text messages and online updates share snapshots of good times. If you’re a local, chances are you really do come here often. If you’re new in town, there’s no question you’ll have this sparkling harbor on your Sydney bucket list.”

Sydney Tower Eye Rotating Buffet / Bar

If you’re looking for the highest view in the city, then there’s no question you must go to the 305-meter-tall Sydney Tower Eye . I’ve been up here once for sunset, and the views truly are magnificent. When I went up there (on a date, actually), I only went for drinks, but I’ve heard the food is absolutely amazing as well.

Want to visit the observation deck instead ?

Price : $89.00 Adult – $64.00 Child ( Read Reviews )

“Skip the big queue and enjoy faster entry by going straight to the prepaid voucher queue. Then stand on the Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck, 820 feet (250 meters) above the street, and be rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views as far as 48 miles (80 kilometers) into the distance. The 60-minute experience includes a fully guided SKYWALK tour around the outside of the top of Sydney Tower. Access to the indoor Observation Deck before and after your SKYWALK tour.”

Nestled at the highest point of the city, the Observation Deck offers the ultimate view of Sydney’s beaches and neighborhoods, with vistas as far as the Blue Mountains.

Offering both day and night viewing slots, the state-of-the-art multilingual touchscreens provide an interactive introduction to some of the city’s famous landmarks. And the high-powered binoculars give you an even closer look.

Where To Stay in Sydney — Best Places

First things first, you’re going to need somewhere to sleep while taking on your Sydney, Australia itinerary. Now obviously, this depends on your budget and travel style, but I think below would be my top recommendations:

Sydney Harbour YHA –  My Favorite Hostel in Sydney

Looking for the best hostel in Sydney? Then I’d definitely recommend staying here at YHA The Rocks . I stayed here for nearly a full week at the end of my last trip to the city, and it ended up being one of my favorite hostels. The rooms are comfortable, the social backpacker vibe is great, and there is an absolutely stunning rooftop terrace overlooking Sydney Harbour.

Check Rates & Availability here

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney (Luxury Hotel)

In the past couple of years, I’ve had the pleasure of staying at a few different Westin properties, and I’m officially obsessed with the brand.   is truly a luxurious gem and will definitely provide a super comfortable stay in the city.

It’s perfectly located in the downtown city center, has incredible amenities, and you’re guaranteed to get a good night’s sleep thanks to their signature “heavenly beds”.

Also, give a quick read through my experience at The Westin Maldives: Heavenly Luxurious in Every Way , which is now the best resort I’ve ever stayed at.

GETTING AROUND SYDNEY | OPAL CARD

While some may disagree, I personally think that the Sydney public transportation system works really well, and you’ll definitely want to get used to using it. The system will be able to take you all over the city, especially to the destinations mentioned in this Sydney 1-week itinerary.

Just make sure you get yourself an “ OPAL card ”. You can register online for free.

This is the public transportation payment system, and it will save you a lot of time and money utilizing it.

Fun Fact – I actually used to work at the OPAL card call center while I was living in Sydney, and think it’s a really fantastic product.

If you lose your OPAL card, you can call them and get it blocked so no one else can use it. Then you just need to get a new card and transfer the old balance to the new card.

Hopefully, you won’t lose your card, but it’s better to know you won’t lose the money that you’ve loaded onto it. 

STAYING CONNECTED IN SYDNEY

Wondering what is the best tourist SIM card for Sydney? If you’re landing at Sydney International Airport, once you get through customs and immigration, you will see five to six different phone stores, all offering a variety of phone plans for tourists.

My personal recommendation would be to go for Optus. They’ve got amazing tourist SIM card packages, and the coverage is top-notch. When I lived in Sydney, I actually used Vodafone, which I really loved, up until I left Sydney and had basically zero reception. 

Note: Vodafone is only good if you stay in the city.

PLANNING A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA?

I’ve spent a lot of time traveling around the country, so make sure you check out a few of my other articles about my time in Australia to help plan your time there.

• Greyhound Bus Pass Hop-On / Hop-Off: Cairns to Sydney Route Bus Itinerary
• The Perfect Weekend Getaway Exploring the New South Wales Coast
• Two Days on Magnetic Island: The Bungalow Bay Experience
• The Ultimate Guide for Moving to Sydney on a Working Holiday Visa
• The 20 Best Music Festivals in Brisbane
• 14 Words You’ll Start Saying When You Move to Australia
• The 15 Best Music Festivals in Sydney, Australia

DON’T FORGET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Whether you are heading to Sydney for just a few days or embarking on a lengthy trip around Australia, travel insurance is absolutely essential.

Have you seen some of the crazy animals they have Downunder, or indeed, how expensive some things (including medical care) can be in Australia? Getting sick or having items stolen while traveling is rare, but when it does happen, it can be an absolute nightmare.

Having insurance (which is essential for Visas in some countries) will give you the peace of mind that if anything terrible does happen, you are covered.

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to its extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths, its fair pricing and its handy app. The app allows you to manage any claims within the app.

But it also has access to free assistance online, so you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill while abroad. So, whether you need a single trip cover or an affordable annual cover for multiple trips worldwide, be sure to buy your travel insurance before you travel. And then you’ll relax during your trip, knowing that HeyMondo has your back.

Nowadays, I would never travel without insurance again, especially after hearing so many (expensive and dangerous) horror stories from other travelers I’ve met.

Are you still planning your trip? You can always just get a no-commitment travel insurance quote now, so you have an idea of how much extra to budget for your vacation.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON YOUR ULTIMATE SYDNEY ITINERARY, 7 DAYS

Every time I visit Sydney, I find a new favorite thing to do or see. That’s just how loaded with natural and cultural attractions Sydney is. From the world-renowned Sydney Opera House to the Bondi to Coogee Walk, the northern beaches, and the Botanic Gardens, you’re sure to have an amazing experience in Sydney.

And to top it all off, you can also enjoy top Sydney attractions like the scenic views at Blue Mountains National Park. Enjoy sun lounging along the white sands of Camp Cove Beach, stroll through the Australian National Maritime Museum, or walk along Darling Harbour – you can do it all when you visit Sydney.

So, which of these incredible sights in Sydney, Australia, are you most excited about exploring?

Thanks for reading my Sydney Itinerary!!

If you’re not already, be sure to follow along on my Facebook & Instagram for more of my international adventures!  As always, feel free to shoot me an email or reach out to me on social-media with any questions you have about Sydney!  I’m a huge fan of Australia, and am always happy to help readers plan their trips down under!  Who knows, maybe I’ll be in town and we can grab a beer!  Until then, SAFE TRAVELS MATES!

Share this Sydney Itinerary with your Australia travel crew!

Thanks for the great info. When was this article written? How up to date is the info? I don’t believe it is possible to pet Koalas in Sydney in 2019??

Such a great and useful article! I will be visiting from New York and your pictures of Sydney and the things to do are gorgeous. Really appreciate your page.

Great post! Really helpful thank you so much!

Wow. Your photo skills are fantastic! I really love the long exposure photos of Sydney Harbour Bridge, especially the one showing Luna Park lit up at night with the Opera House compressed in the background! And your Bondi photos are incredible too! So inspiring thanks for sharing! :)

Great shots. I’ve bookmarked this post to have in mind before visiting Sydney next time (hopefully). My last visit was 2 years ago. A business trip and meeting in Four Seasons Hotels in Sydney, The Rocks area. Its near the center but was too expensive for me and I’ve stayed in Harbour Rocks Hotel instead. It is not on the main streets but close enough to walk to.

Really an awesome Sydney Itinerary, love reading this as it was very attractive and helpful. Please keep posting such articles.

That is such a comprehensive itinerary. I am bookmarking it for later.

thankyou for providing this useful information

This itinerary for Sydney is great. Looks like so much fun stuff to do. I’ll be cherry picking some of the options here for myself.

For Taronga Park, I strongly recommend that you ad that it’s the best zoo for OZ marsupials on the planet. They have wombats! (Yes, I know San Diego has them too, but not housed so well.)

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Sydney city guide: Best things to do and where to stay in Australia’s magnificent harbour city

S prawling around one of the planet’s biggest and most beautiful natural harbours, Sydney is perhaps the ultimate city destination in Australia . With its swoonworthy physical attributes, laidback charm and trio of icons – namely the opera house, Sydney Harbour Bridge and sweeping Bondi Beach – the New South Wales capital almost effortlessly wows.

Though the city stretches westwards way beyond Parramatta (Sydney’s geographic heart) to the base of the Blue Mountains, nearly all of its visitor appeal lies in the city centre, central suburbs and beaches . Founded in 1788, Australia’s first British settlement has evolved into a true world city that’s liveliest when Mardi Gras fills the streets with sequins, parades and parties.

If you’re heading down under, our Sydney guide provides a heads-up on what to do, where to eat and drink, and the best spots to stay in the Harbour City.

Access all arias

You can’t miss Sydney Opera House . Designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and opened in 1973, this concrete-and-ceramic-tile masterpiece celebrated its 50th anniversary with a major renovation of its performance spaces. Ideally, immerse yourself in an opera, concert, recital or play; otherwise take a tour (from £22pp) to discover those rooftop sails and the building’s history.

Read more on Australia travel :

• Mornington Peninsula: How travellers are seeking out Australia’s hot springs
• The best deals for a luxury Australia holiday in 2024
• Why you should book a holiday to Ningaloo, Australia’s ‘other reef’

Bridge the gap

Sydney’s second major landmark, the Harbour Bridge, unites the CBD (central business district) with the North Shore suburbs. For those with a head for heights (and the best part of £150 to spare), Bridge Climb is the classic experience. Alternatively, take the train to North Sydney and walk back over the bridge for free, with the opera house and city skyline before you.

Sydneysider culture goes big on the beach. Bondi is the icon, for its fine sand, surfer scene, and Icebergs saltwater pool, or hop on the ferry to Manly and its similarly sandy, pine-tree-lined promenade. Not a fan of waves? Stay within the harbour: the North Shore’s Fairlight Beach or more hidden-away Castle Rock Beach are fantastic.

Go walkabout

All around the harbour, fragments of foreshore and bushland constitute Sydney Harbour National Park . Weaving much of it together is the 80km Bondi to Manly Walk , via woodland, beaches, parks and urban promenades. En route, enjoy Aboriginal rock carvings, wildlife encounters (kookaburras, bush turkeys, water dragons) and cooling dips. Ferry and bus connections break it into manageable chunks.

Art and culture

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is lauded for its sculptures, exhibitions and collections, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks. Qtopia , meanwhile, is a must for LGBT+ travellers and allies. As befits a city known for its massive Mardi Gras celebrations, this museum tells the story of community trailblazers whose actions helped decriminalise homosexuality in New South Wales in 1984.

Where to stay

Base yourself central to everything at Paramount House Hotel. Located where the CBD crashes into Surry Hills, this former movie company headquarters has been transformed into a 29-room boutique hotel, with rooms (nearly all of which have outdoor spaces) that are cosy, colourful, and come with the feeling of staying at a cool friend’s apartment. Room-only doubles from £175.

Find a similar price point just round the corner at Ace Hotel Sydney, where the concrete-meets-carpet aesthetic and a slightly retro vibe make the guest rooms at once supremely comfortable and delightfully homely. Top-floor restaurant Kiln is a community favourite, while the street-level diner and coffee shop keep things buzzing throughout the day. There’s also a bijou but excellent gym.

For a fun, yesteryear resort vibe, Oxford House in nearby Paddington wins for its laidback style, cheerful service, and poolside restaurant that doubles as a popular brunch spot for locals. The 55 light-filled rooms benefit from colourful artworks, warm tones and quality amenities, and doubles start from £145.

For more in the way of budget stays, Space Q Capsule Hotel delivers conveniently located, quirky, cool and cost-effective digs within a five-minute walk of Central station.

Where to eat

Asian flavours abound in Sydney. Ever-popular Chin Chin in Surry Hills is the go-to for beef rendang, crispy duck pancakes and prawn summer rolls, all bursting with freshness (mains from £12-20). Similarly upbeat is Uncle Mings : a quirky dumpling den serving small bites and cocktails on a CBD laneway. For something simpler, Japanese temaki are a commonplace, cheap (around £2 each) and healthy on-the-go snack; Hero Sushi is a good place to find them. Also refreshingly affordable is Spice Alley : a Chippendale backstreet whose hawker-style outlets span Singaporean, Thai, Malaysian, Cantonese and Japanese favourites, from satay skewers to special fried rice.

This being a coastal city, there’s no shortage of waterfront restaurants. The Boathouse on Manly’s Shelly Beach wins for its indoor/outdoor ambience, great design, and High Tide Happy Hour (alternatively, try the Balmoral Beach branch). At Bondi Pavilion, meanwhile, a much-needed renovation to mark its centenary has given this seafront landmark a buzzing brunch spot in Glory Days , with poke bowls, avo-on-toast breakfasts, and great coffee as the standouts.

Casually upmarket Café Sydney is perfect for special occasions. Situated atop Circular Quay’s historic Customs House, this classic spot enjoys foreground-filling Harbour Bridge views and a menu celebrating Aussie produce from barramundi to Sydney rock oysters, supported by thoughtful cocktail and wine lists.

Where to drink

Get a hint of its history at The Treasury , where coffee and cocktails are sipped in what was the courtyard of an 1851 building. Now enclosed to form a light-filled atrium, it’s a chic space with monochrome floor tiles, velvet booths, and an Art-Deco-style bar that complements the grand brick-and-sandstone architecture.

Elsewhere in the CBD, enjoy elevated views from Dean and Nancy on 22 , where inventively quirky cocktails (brought to life with candy floss or smoke-filled bubbles) come with a side of highrise scenery. Try the gin-based Alien on Holiday or colourful Watermelon Sugar High, all priced at around £14.

Rather more hidden away are the bijou bars on the YCK Laneways , a lively precinct around York, Clarence and Kent Streets. Highlights include Sammy Junior , which segues from daytime coffees to evening cocktails, or speakeasy-style Stitch Bar , which you’ll find behind a faux frontage.

Where to shop

Of the CBD’s major shopping malls, QVB stands out for its beautifully restored Victorian architecture (all tiled floors, balustrades and glass domes) packed with mostly international brands. Over in Chippendale, Central Park is a much more modern affair good for youth-oriented fashion and footwear from the likes of Glue Store and Hype DC, plus Pigeonhole and its range of gifts and clothing with a sustainable slant.

Also worth checking out are the boutiques in Paddington along Oxford Street, or continue down it all the way to Bondi Beach, which has evolved from its “daggier” backpacker days into something much more credible. Gould Street and Hall Street are the go-to spots here; check out Tuchuzy for its Aussie and international fashions.

Architectural icon

Sydney Tower (formerly Centrepoint) is the city’s tallest structure, whose golden turret (with observation deck ) sits atop a slender shaft.

What currency do they use?

Australian dollar.

What language do they speak?

Should i tip.

It isn’t expected, but 10 per cent is appreciated.

What’s the time difference?

Average flight time.

Around 22 hours from London , depending on layover duration. Emirates offers convenient connections from London , Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle and Birmingham, via Dubai .

Public transport

AirportLink trains whisk travellers into the city in 15 minutes to connect with buses, trams and ferries. Top up an Opal (like London’s Oyster card) for seamless travel, or simply touch on and off with your credit card.

For that classic shot of the opera house with a Harbour Bridge backdrop, head to Mrs Macquarie’s Point in the Botanic Gardens . Otherwise, take the ferry to Cremorne Point to see towering skyscrapers crowning the opera house.

Insider tip?

If jetlag has you up pre-dawn, go watch the sun rising over the opera house from Hickson Road Reserve.

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• 10 Hidden Gems In Sydney That You Must Explore

25 Apr 2024

Are you bored of the same five or six tourist destinations in Sydney being mentioned everywhere? Want to go off the beaten path and explore the less popular spots in the city? Worry not! With this list of  hidden gems in Sydney, you can have the perfect opportunity to explore the city like no other. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and make sure to visit these hidden gems in Sydney on your text visit to Australia.

Uncover 10 Best Hidden Gems in Sydney

Sydney is a massive city that isn’t just about visiting the Opera House or arguing over which beach is better. So beat the crowds with these best hidden gems in Sydney and explore the city like no other. From the beautiful Wendy’s secret garden in Lavender Bay to the Collins flat beach in Manly. Here is a list of 10 hidden gems in Sydney that you must explore on your next visit to this amazing city.

1. Wendy’s Secret Garden

Image Source: Shutterstock

Overlooking lavender bay and built over an abandoned train yard, Wendy’s Secret Garden is one of Australia’s most beautiful gardens with an equally gloomy story. When her husband died, the grief-stricken Wendy Whitelet dedicated her life to regenerating an overgrown, abandoned railway land into a stunning hidden garden oasis. With trees that cast a soothing shade over its winding pathways, Wendy’s Secret Garden is one of the most stunning hidden gems in north Sydney. So take a walk through the hidden nooks around this garden and share its meditative space with statues, fountains, and serenity.

Things To Do:

• Explore the park’s meandering pathways
• Enjoy picnic basket
• Read a book at one of the tables or benches
• Enjoy the beauty and serenity of the park
• Discover the various sculptures dotted around the park

How To Reach: Near Luna Park via Clark Park, Lavender St., North Sydney, New South Wales 2060 N.S.W, Australia

• North Sydney – 3 Minutes Walk
• Milsons Point – 9 Minutes Walk

Must Read: Lakes In Sydney

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout

While the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, its Pylon Lookout is surprisingly well hidden. Scale the 200 steps to the very top of the Pylon and be rewarded with a spectacular view of the city of Sydney. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Blue Mountains, located in the western regions of Sydney. You can also consider stopping at the three exhibits inside the tower and learning about the construction of Australia’s most popular landmark.

• Bridge climb
• Take a walk across the bridge
• Visit the pylon lookout
• Cruise under the bridge
• Enjoy a meal with a view of the bridge

How To Reach: Sydney Hbr Brg, Sydney NSW, Australia

• To reach Sydney Harbour Bridge, you can take a ferry from Circular Quay to Milsons Point
• Alternatively, you can also take a train to the Milsons Point Railway Station and reach Harbour Bridge from there.

3. Paddington Reservoir Gardens

Located in the eastern suburbs of Sydney, the Paddington Reservoir Gardens is one of the most well hidden gems in Sydney. Originally built in the 1860s as a water reservoir for the overgrowing population of Sydney, Paddington Reservoir served as a crucial water supply. Over time, this reservoir went through several transformations before being revitalised as the serene garden it is today. The park is comprised of two levels – the street level and the lower chambers. It is also to be kept in mind that while the street level is accessible at all times, the lower chambers are only open during daylight hours. So make sure to leave early to get the complete experience of the reservoir garden.

• Relax in the gardens
• Take a stroll through the park
• Explore the ruins of the old reservoir
• Check out the art installations at the park
• Have a picnic in the park

How To Reach: 251-255 Oxford St, Paddington N.S.W 2021, Australia

Paddington Reservoir Garden is only a 5-minute walk away from Paddington Public School bus station. Some lines are routes you can take to reach Paddington Reservoir includes 333, 352, and 440

Suggested Read: Street Food In Australia

4. The Forgotten Songs

Tucked away in Angel Place, Forgotten Songs is one of the best hidden gems in Sydney. Originally a temporary piece of artwork by Micheal Thomas Hill, Forgotten Songs commemorates the songs of fifty birds that were once heard in central Sydney. However, due to European settlement and an ever-increasing population, these birds were gradually forced out of their habitat. Serving as an interplay of past and present, this piece of art is a reminder of Sydney’s fauna. As previously mentioned, Forgotten Songs was originally designed as a temporary piece of art. But this enchanting installation became so popular, that it has since become permanent.

• Listen to the birdsongs
• Learn about the birds
• Relax and immerse yourself in the setting

How To Reach: George St. to Pitt St, Sydney, 2000, Australia

• The nearest bus station to Forgotten Songs is Wynyard Station, Carrington St, Stand F. Once you arrive at the station, Forgotten Songs is just a 3-minute walk away

5. MacCallum Pools

Everyone knows about the sea pool at the world-famous Bondi Beach. But this hidden gem in Sydney is home to other lesser-known seawater swimming spots. Located on the western point of Cremorne Point, MacCallum Pool is a unique harbourside pool with superb views and an unparalleled sunbathing spot. MacCallum Pool was originally just a rock pool created by residents in the 1920s. However, it was restored in the 1980s by the local council to keep up with heritage themes. Overlooking the harbour itself and shaded by leafy trees, this exclusive-feeling pool promises a scenic view to all its visitors. On your next trip, make sure to visit this hidden gem in Sydney, Australia as well.

• Take a swim in the seawater pool
• Relax and sunbathe by the pool
• Observe marine life by snorkelling
• Enjoy the peaceful ambience
• Take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastal line

How To Reach: Milson Road Cremorne Point N.S.W 2090 Australia

• Maccallum Pool is readily accessible by ferry from various points in Sydney. The pool is also accessible by car via Milson Road.

Suggested Read: Trekking In Sydney

6. Tramsheds

Housed in the former historic Rozelle Tram Depot, Tramsheds is one of Sydney’s most exciting food destinations. Originally built in 1904, Tramsheds features 11 restaurants from some of Sydney’s most renowned chefs and artisans. Tramsheds is located only four kilometres from Sydney’s CBD and offers a diverse and vibrant meeting place for locals and tourists alike. So if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture of Sydney, or pick up artisan produce, Tramsheds may just be the right place for you. It is advised to book reservations online to avoid any hassle.

• Take a stroll through Artisan Lane
• Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes
• Visit one of the wine bars and participate in wine-tasting
• Take in the artistic displays
• Learn about the history of the tram depot

How To Reach: 1 Dalgal Wy, Forest Lodge N.S.W 2037, Australia

• Tramsheds is easily accessible via Jubilee Park Light Rail Station. Alternatively, there is also car parking available if you want to travel by car. Parking is free for two hours.

7. Shark Island

Sitting right in the heart of Sydney Harbour, Shark Island is a part of Sydney Harbour National Park. This tiny and beautiful island is one of the most well hidden gems in Sydney and is just a short boat trip away from the mainland. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can also travel to the island via a kayak! With its lush grassy area, Shark Island serves as the perfect spot for a picnic or watching the start of the famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race! After lunch, you can also explore the island’s foreshore and grottos which were hand built in the early 1900s.

• Pack a picnic basket and have a meal on the island’s grassy land
• Take a refreshing swim in the calm waters
• Explore the underwater by snorkelling
• Explore the island’s walking trails
• Try your hand at fishing

How To Reach: Shark Island, Sydney Harbour Point Piper N.S.W 2027, Australia

• To get to Shark Island, you can easily book a ferry trip through a licensed transport operator. If you get there by kayak, you will need to pay a $7-per-person parking fee as well.

Suggested Read: Water Sports In Sydney

8. Collins Flat Beach

With its scenic harbour views, Collins Flat Beach is an ideal spot for a romantic picnic! Located just between North Head and Little Manly Cove, Collins Flat Beach is an almost picture-perfect gem that is sheltered by trees and rock pools. Whether you are swimming in the gentle waters or enjoying gourmet snacks, this hidden gem beach in Sydney offers an unforgettable experience to visitors. If you want to explore nearby beaches, you can also visit Store Beach, Quarantine Beach, and Little Manly Beach, all of which are located just a little further from Collins Flat Beach.

• Take a dip in the calm waters
• Relax on the sandy shore and soak up the sun
• Have a picnic with friends or family
• Enjoy a bushwalk through the nearby nature reserve
• Keep an eye out for native wildlife

How To Reach: 103 Stuart St, Manly, New South Wales 2095, Australia

• To reach Collins Flat Beach, you can follow Darlet Road through Manly past the hospital. Veer slightly right through the stone arch and turn right onto Collins Beach Road

9. Sydney Observatory

While the centre of a bustling city is not the most obvious choice for stargazing, you can do just that in Sydney. To get the full experience, you can opt for a guided tour of this observatory and learn about its rich history and scientific strides in defence, astronomy, and meteorology. The tour consists of interesting stories behind Ford Philip and the Signal Station and the site’s significance in timekeeping, surveying, and signalling. You will also be invited into the observatory building to explore objects. From these amazing locations, you can also get a spectacular view of Sydney Harbour and a chance to view celestial objects through a telescope.

• Join a guided night tour to observe the stars and planets
• Experience the immersive planetarium
• Learn about the history of the observatory
• Safely observe the sun using special solar telescopes
• Watch the historic and modern telescopes in action

How To Reach: 1003 Upper Fort St, Millers Point NSW 2000, Australia

• The best way to get from Sydney to Sydney Observatory is to line 324 bus. This can cost anywhere from $2 – $4 and takes 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also book a cab which can cost you around $8 – $10.

Suggested Read: Heritage Places In Sydney

10. Royal National Park

Situated between Sydney and Wollongong, Royal National Park provides endless opportunities for visitors to reconnect with nature and admire its beauty. The entire park spans over 16 thousand hectares and is one of the oldest national parks in the world. So if you want to escape from the constant bustle of the city, this hidden gem in Sydney is perfect for you. If you visit between May and October, you can also join a tour boat or climb up to the top of the sandstone cliffs to watch for whales as they migrate through Sydney’s waters.

• Explore the park’s extensive network of hiking trails
• Enjoy a picnic amidst the park’s stunning scenery
• Take a refreshing swim at one of the park’s beaches
• Spot the local native wildlifs
• Spend a night under the stars by camping

How To Reach: Royal National Park Visitor Centre 2 Lady Carrington Drive, Audley, N.S.W 2232, Australia

• Walk from Heathcote statio
• Walk from Otford statio
• Catch a bus from Sutherland station
• Ferry from Cronulla to Bundeena

Further Read: National Parks In Sydney

Attracting tourists from all across the world, Sydney is truly one of the most amazing cities in the world. However, some of its most charming destinations become overshadowed by popular spots. These hidden gems in Sydney only add an extra charm of excitement to your tour and something you should definitely add to your bucket list. So on your next trip to Sydney , make sure to keep this above-mentioned list of the best hidden gems in Sydney handy.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Gems in Sydney

What is the most famous thing in Sydney?

Several locations in Sydney make it a popular tourist destination. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Sydney include:

• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Sydney Opera House
• Amazing Zoos (Taronga and Sydney Zoo)
• Iconic Beaches (Bondi, Coogee, etc)

What are the top three things to do in Sydney, Australia?

Some of the top attractions in Sydney that you do not want to miss are:

• Take the coastal walk from Iconic Bondi Beach to Coogee
• Get a drink at the Opera Bar and look out over the harbour and Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

How many days do I need in Sydney?

Sydney is a big city with several points of interest and tourist destinations. However, 3 to 5 days are generally considered a good amount of time to spend in Sydney especially if you are a first-timer. This will allow you to experience Sydney without feeling like you are zooming around in a rush.

Why is Sydney so popular for tourists?

Sydney is one of the most popular destinations among tourists because of its famous landmarks, monuments, art museums, and beautiful beaches. Sydney can offer tourists a relaxing atmosphere despite the skyscrapers and traffic.

What is the best month to go to Sydney?

The best time to visit Sydney is from September to November and February to May. The weather during this period is pleasant and the tourist crowd is not at its peak either. However, June to August is considered ideal for tourists with a tighter budget.

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21 Non Touristy Things To Do In Sydney, Australia

Looking for non touristy things to do in Sydney? Look no further! Here are some fun activities in Australia’s most famous city that you can enjoy without the crowds.

As the capital city of New South Wales, and Australia’s most populated city, Sydney is very popular among tourists.

With famous landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Harbour is an iconic spot to visit.

As you head towards the coast, stunning beaches like Bondi and Manly are usually packed with tourists. And with good reason! Sydney has so much to offer travelers, and there’s a reason why all these beautiful spots are so touristy.

But if you’re looking for non touristy things to do in Sydney, there are plenty of options to choose from.

To escape the crowds and mingle with more locals, try some of these non touristy things to do in Sydney!

Also be sure to check out my complete list of the 25 best things to do in Sydney , with free, cheap, and expensive options!

Even though I’ve lived in Sydney for a couple of years now, I rarely spend time in the touristy areas like Sydney Harbour and Bondi Beach. Why? The city has so much fun, entertainment, and natural beauty to offer in other areas!

Honestly, as a whole, Sydney is not even a super touristy city. Tourists congregate around the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach, but outside those spots it can be very calm.

Especially once you head out to the nearby national parks like the Blue Mountains or the Royal National Park , it’s very easy to find beautiful locations with no one else around!

So here are some of my favorite non touristy things to do in Sydney that showcase the local culture and magical nature of the area.

1. Go To The Markets

Sydney has lots of incredible markets scattered all over the city. They are popular among locals, but not so much tourists.

Head here to browse through locally made handicrafts, score some cheap, fresh produce and meats, and pick up some vintage or secondhand clothes, books, and more.

Here is a quick summary of some of the best Sydney markets!

• The Rocks Market – Find food and crafts at this historic market (Sat & Sun 10am – 5pm)
• Marrickville Market – Sells food, clothes, books, & everything under the sun (Sundays 9am – 3pm)
• Sutherland Shire Farmers Market – Foodie paradise (Saturdays 8am – 1pm)
• Sydney Flower Market – Overflowing with colorful and unique flowers (Mon – Sat 5am – 11am)
• Paddington Markets – Known for clothes, jewelry, and accessories (Saturdays from 10am)
• Glebe Markets – One of Sydney’s best vintage markets (Saturdays 10am – 4pm)

2. Find A Hidden Garden or Park

If you’re looking for more hidden gems in Sydney, consider scoping out a beautiful garden or park.

Landscaped flower gardens and spacious green parks are hidden all over the city.

Wendy’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay is one of the most popular, so I’m not sure how “secret” it is anymore. But this magical green space is still worth a visit!

Swain Gardens in northern Sydney is another gorgeous spot. With lush green grass, a charming gazebo, and flowering trees, this is the perfect place for a picnic away from the crowds.

Lisgar Gardens are also in Sydney’s north near Hornsby. Here you can find ponds, walking trails, and an abundance of unique plants and flowers.

Fred Hollows Reserve is a large green space with boardwalks, bridges, and walkways. Shelly Park , Oak Park , and Gunnamatta Park are three beautiful parks in Cronulla with water views.

3. Try A Coastal Walk (Other Than Bondi to Coogee)

The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is one of the best things to do in Sydney. But that means it’s often super crowded!

Luckily, Sydney has a lengthy coastline that is full of quieter, less touristy trails.

Head anywhere north or south of Bondi and Coogee and you’ll find coastal walks that are only populated by surfers checking the waves and locals strolling with their flat white in keep cups.

Manly to Spit Bridge is one of the more popular walks, but not nearly as much as Bondi to Coogee.

Venture further north and walk Dee Why to Manly , or Curl Curl to Freshwater .

Venturing south, you can walk Coogee to Maroubra and find that all the tourists left the trail at Coogee! Or head even further south and take on the scenic Cronulla Esplanade Walk , or the greater Botany Bay Coastal Walk .

4. Visit The Sydney Opera House At Sunrise

Another one of the best non touristy things to do in Sydney is visit the touristy places at odd times.

Throughout the day, the Sydney Harbour and Sydney Opera House is always swarming with tourists.

But if you wake up early enough, and head to the Sydney Opera House at sunrise, you’re in for a treat!

There will be no one else there, except maybe a few photographers. You’ll also get to witness the magic of the sunrise over one of the world’s most famous landmarks.

Mrs Macquarie’s Chair , Milson’s Point in Kirribilli, and on the Sydney Harbour Bridge itself give some of the best vantage points of the Sydney Opera House.

5. Take A Day Trip

If you’re looking for cool experiences in Sydney, consider venturing outside the city’s borders!

Some of the most beautiful scenery and fun activities lie just beyond the city. However, few tourists actually spend much time in these incredible national parks and small towns.

Most tourists spend a few days in Bondi, Manly, and the CBD, and then fly to Brisbane or Melbourne .

But Sydney has many epic day trips that are super accessible for travelers.

Whether you want to take the train, rent a car, or book a guided tour , here are some of the best day trips from Sydney!

• Drive along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive and visit the charming beach towns
• Spend a day in Wollongong
• Take on more epic coastal walks in the Royal National Park
• Go wine tasting in the Hunter Valley
• Try a day hike in the Blue Mountains
• Find waterfalls in Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park

Read next: The Best Things To Do In The Royal National Park, Sydney

6. Attend A Concert

As one of the biggest cities in the world, Sydney constantly has cool musical acts passing through.

Because most tourists are only in Sydney for a few days, it’s rare that they’ll attend local concerts.

If you’re looking for the big names, check Ticketek to see who’s playing. But if you’re looking for non touristy things to do in Sydney, you may be wanting to escape the crowds, not book tickets to a crowded music venue!

There are some smaller, more intimate concert options in Sydney if you want fewer crowds.

• Sydney’s Candlelight Concerts are incredible! These classical music concerts generally play in small churches or cozy venues by candlelight.
• Enmore Theatre is a smaller music venue just outside the CBD that hosts amazing concerts.
• Mary’s Underground and Tiva are underground bars and restaurants that have small stages with frequent live music as well.

Check Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights to Sydney!

7. Go To A Brewery

If you like beer, live music, and good vibes, check out a brewery in Sydney!

Surprisingly, Sydney isn’t really known for breweries. So when you visit one, you’ll mostly be surrounded by locals.

Here are some of the coolest breweries in Sydney:

• Shark Island Brewing Company, Kirrawee: craft beers and food trucks
• Freshwater Brewing, Brookvale: bright, colorful, trendy brewery
• Wildflower, Marrickvale: earthy, fermented beers
• Sunday Road Brewery, Kirrawee: unique, craft beers inspired by local places
• Yulli’s Brews, Alexandria: pub, live music, ciders
• One Drop Brewing Company, Botany: art, reggae music, plants, djs on weekends

8. Swim In The Remote Ocean Pools

Another one of the best non touristy things to do in Sydney is swim in a less-popular ocean pool.

All of Australia’s ocean pools are popular among locals – Australians love to float around and swim laps in these manmade, saltwater ocean pool.

But tourists tend to stick to the famous ones in touristy areas, such as Bondi Icebergs in Bondi, Bronte Baths in Bronte, or Fairy Bower Pool in Manly. Head to the ocean pools further away from these areas and you might have the place to yourself.

Check out Avalon Rock Pool, Dee Why Rock Pool, and Mona Vale Rock Pool in the north.

Mahon Pool in Maroubra is amazing, as is Shelly Beach Rock Pool and Oak Park Rock Pool in Cronulla.

9. Explore Newtown

Anyone looking for cool places to go in Sydney should head over to Newtown.

There are so many words locals use to describe Newtown: trendy, quirky, bohemian, artsy, and more.

Full of vintage shops, art galleries, tattoo parlors, live music venues, trendy eateries, cocktail bars, breweries, bookshops, theatres, and more, there is so much to see and do here.

If you like to shop, eat, drink, and just dive deep into the arts and the local culture, Newtown is the place to hang out!

10. Go For A Bushwalk

Despite being a massive city, Sydney has so much greenery. There are lots of little forests, parks, and protected areas of natural beauty all over the city and along its outskirts.

If you want to escape the crowds and spend some time in nature, go on a relaxing bushwalk!

In northern Sydney, the Barrenjoey Head Lighthouse walk is a short but steep hike up through the forest on a rocky headland. The views from the top are stunning.

Narrabeen Lagoon Trail is also stunning. here you’ll pass waterfalls, lakes, and green canopies.

The Blue Gum Forest Walk in Hornsby feels so wild, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Sydney!

An easy bushwalk is the Banks-Solander Track in Kurnell in southern Sydney. Stroll through the forest and pass lots of native plants and trees.

And of course, the nearby Blue Mountains and Royal National Park are packed with incredible bushwalks.

11. Attend A Comedy Show

If you love to laugh (who doesn’t), go to a comedy show in Sydney.

You can find tickets to famous comedians that pass through, or go to a smaller venue and watch some more unknown local comedians.

This is a super fun and usually affordable way to spend a night in Sydney.

I’ve been to a few comedy shows in Sydney, like Tom Segura at the Aware Super Theatre which drew a massive crowd.

But I had just as much fun at the Comedy Store , which shows less popular local artists in an intimate venue.

12. See Vivid Sydney On A Weekday

Every winter, Vivid Sydney takes over the city and fills the CBD and Sydney Harbour with colorful light displays. It’s one of the city’s biggest events, and it is definitely touristy.

However, weekends see most of the crowds, particularly the first and last weekends.

So for a non touristy Sydney activity, go see Vivid on a weekday! You can capture the magic with far fewer people around.

Check the Vivid Sydney website for dates and more information.

13. Play Tennis

I recently started playing tennis in Sydney, and it’s so much fun! It’s also a non touristy thing to do in Sydney. The courts are pretty much all locals!

If you have an hour or two to spare and you want to try something active, grab a friend and go play tennis.

There are places all over the city where you can rent a court for an hour and have some fun. You can usually rent rackets and balls as well.

14. Visit An Island

Many tourists don’t know this (I certainly didn’t when I first visited Australia!), but Sydney Harbour has 8 islands.

Cockatoo Island is the largest and easiest to visit. Just catch a ferry from Circular Quay and spend a few hours check out the sites of this former convict prison area.

Cockatoo Island is one of Australia’s convict sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and you can even camp on the island.

Goat Island is home to some incredible Aboriginal sites, including an ancient rock shelter. In modern times the island served as a sandstone mining site and storage facility.

Fort Denison is another island that served as a military site, as is Shark Island. All of these are accessible by ferry.

15. Go Camping

Another one of my favorite things to do in Sydney is camping. There are so many incredible national parks and camping areas around Sydney.

The campgrounds are usually frequented by Australians, so you won’t find too many international tourists around.

Also, many campgrounds nowadays require bookings. That means the spaces will never be too crowded as only a limited amount of guests are allowed on the campsites.

If you’re looking for cool experiences in Sydney, waking up under the stars to the sound of kookaburras and cockatoos is definitely one of them.

Some of the best campgrounds around Sydney include:

• Coledale Camping Reserve on the Grand Pacific Drive
• North Era Campground in the Royal National Park
• Putty Beach Campground in Bouddi National Park
• The Basin Campground in Ku Ring Gai Chase National Park
• Cockatoo Island Campground on Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour
• And there are tons of epic camping spots in the Blue Mountains – make sure you stay up late enough to see the famous glow worms !

Read next: 12 Best Things To Do On The Grand Pacific Drive: Sydney to Kiama

16. Attend A Sports Game

A fun thing to do in any new country or city is attend a sports game .

Sometimes tourists attend sports games, but you’ll most likely find yourself watching the game alongside a bunch of passionate locals.

Especially in Australia, where people aren’t nearly as obsessed with sports as they are in other countries (at least in my experience), sports games are mainly attended by locals.

Rugby is the most popular sport to watch in Sydney! The NRL has 8 clubs based in Sydney so there are often games playing.

If you can make it to State of Origin, the intense New South Wales vs Queensland rugby game held every winter, this is an awesome experience.

Cricket and soccer are the next biggest, sports, and Sailing and surfing are popular water sports to watch.

Book a tour of the Sydney Cricket Ground to learn about the beloved sport’s history and culture .

17. Venture Up To Palm Beach

Tourists in Sydney tend to hang out near the CBD, Sydney Harbour, and Bondi Beach. Sometimes they will venture up to Manly, but rarely do you find big crowds up in the far north of the city.

Sydney’s northern tip is home to Palm Beach, a quiet little beach neighborhood that is set on a peninsula and has water on both sides.

Spending a day in the quaint town of Palm Beach is one of the best non touristy things to do in Sydney.

Embark on a short hike up to the Barrenjoey Head Lighthouse for epic views, or grab a bacon and egg roll at a nearby cafe.

It surprises me that more tourists don’t come up here because it’s a stunning spot.

18. Venture Down To Cronulla

Instead of venturing north to escape the Bondi crowds, you can also head south.

Sydney’s southernmost coastal suburb is Cronulla , another beach town that doesn’t see too many tourists.

It does get crowded on the weekends when locals from the western suburbs take the train in for a beach day.

But if you visit on a weekday, you can have a lovely visit without any tourists.

Stroll along the Cronulla Esplanade Walk and stop off for a swim at one of the many rock pools. Or wander through the quaint town center and find some food or go shopping.

19. Go Rock Climbing

One of the best rainy day activities in Sydney is indoor rock climbing!

Sydney Indoor Climbing Gym has two locations in the city where you can have a blast and get a good workout in while climbing the rock walls!

9 Degrees Boulder Gym in Alexandria and Climb Fit in Kirrawee are other awesome options.

You can also go outdoor rock climbing in the Blue Mountains, but I would recommend only doing that with a tour guide or with a local who has equipment and knows what they’re doing.

Indoor rock climbing is a much safer and more casual activity.

20. Explore Chinatown

As the largest Chinatown in Australia, Sydney’s Chinatown dates back to the 1920s. Though it’s located pretty close to the CBD, it doesn’t feel too touristy around here.

Wander through the narrow streets adorned with Chinese gates and lanterns and grab a delicious, cheap meal in one of the eateries.

The Chinatown Friday Night Street Market is great for street food, though it does get kind of crowded.

After filling your stomach, relax by the Chinese Garden of Friendship and admire the tranquil gardens and ponds.

21. Try A Work Exchange

Last on my list of non touristy things to do in Sydney is a work exchange .

This is my favorite way to travel because you can save money on accommodation and have an in-depth cultural experience where you get to know the locals and gain valuable skills.

I mainly use Worldpackers to find reputable work exchanges around the world, but Workaway has great options as well.

Between both of these websites , you can find locals in and around Sydney and New South Wales that are accepting travelers to work for them in exchange for free accommodation.

This is the best way to gain insight into the real Australian culture and lifestyle.

☼ ☼ ☼ 

Thanks for reading my list of 21 non touristy things to do in Sydney, Australia!

Sydney has grown to be one of my favorite cities in the world, mainly due to the incredible nature and places where you can escape the crowds.

☼ Before visiting Australia, make sure you get a visa ! Every visitor needs one. Check iVisa to research visa requirements, or check out my Working Holiday Visa Guide if you want an extended trip!

For more inspiration around New South Wales, check out these articles:

Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip Guide

15 Best Things To Do In Wollongong

NSW South Coast Road Trip Guide

12 Fun Things To Do In Port Stephens

Best Things To Do On The Grand Pacific Drive

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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2 thoughts on “ 21 Non Touristy Things To Do In Sydney, Australia ”

Literally everything on this list was touristy activities. Are you even local?

Well I guess “non-touristy” is subjective! In my experience, all of these activities had very few tourists. All good if you disagree! I’m not a Sydney local but I’ve lived here for 4 years so again, this is just my experience and perspective as a foreigner living here.

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