walking tour sydney tunnels

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NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

South Head tunnels tour

Sydney Harbour National Park

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A world of history.

Although British authorities first planned to set up their penal colony in Botany Bay, the First Fleet of convicts only stayed in Botany Bay for a few days and then set sail around the coast to Sydney Harbour, where the colony was established. Since then, Sydney Harbour has continued to play an important part in the development of the nation and a number of places in the park have strong links to Sydney's history. You'll find buildings constructed using convict labour, maritime and military fortifications, and the Quarantine Station which once housed new boat arrivals to Sydney, protecting Sydneysiders from infectious disease.

• Bradleys Head guided walking tour in Sydney Join your friendly guide from EcoWalks Tours for a fascinating harbour-side excursion at Bradleys Head in Sydney. You'll experience local history, enjoy stunning views and see native wildlife.
• Bushland secrets at Bradleys Head self-guided tour Take a self-guided tour around Bradleys Head and discover the hidden secrets of this special place. Stroll through bushland along an elevated boardwalk and learn about the history of the area as you d...
• Convict kids on Goat Island 'Guilty of petty theft – your punishment is penal transportation to Australia for the term of your natural life.' Discover what life was like for the first convicts of Australia in this unique Stage 2...
• Fort Denison – Muddawahnyuh Fort Denison – Muddawahnyuh (mud-uh-'wahn-yuh) is a heritage fort on a Sydney Harbour island. Once called Pinchgut Island, the former military facility is a popular New Years Eve vantage point.
• Goat Island convicts, castles and champagne tour Discover Sydney’s colourful convict past on a unique tour with Sydney Harbour Tall Ships. Visit historic sites on Goat Island and take in beautiful views as you cruise around Sydney Harbour.
• Greycliffe House and Nielsen Park heritage tour Enter the world of the mid 1800s when you visit Greycliffe House. It's been a part of Sydney's history since its first residents moved in. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the grounds after the tour.
• Guided walks in Sydney's national parks Connect with nature in one of Sydney’s most beautiful national parks on a guided bushwalk with Trip Slow. You’ll learn about local wildlife and the history of the area.
• Military relics at Bradleys Head Discover Sydney's military history at the Bradleys Head Fortifications Complex. Bradleys Head is next to Tarongo Zoo in Mosman NSW.
• South Head Heritage trail The short, easy South Head Heritage trail takes in scenic beaches and Sydney Harbour views, historic gun emplacements, and great whale watching from the distinctive red and white striped Hornby Lighth...
• Spectacular Sydney Harbour National Park tour Explore Sydney’s most magical places from a local’s perspective on your own private outing with Personalised Sydney Tours. Enjoy an unforgettable day with your friendly guide as you visit iconic landm...
• Strickland Estate Step back in time as you walk up the lush lawn to Carrara House on Strickland Estate in Vaucluse. This 19th-century estate is a heritage treasure and boasts one of the best picnic spots with a harbour...
• Strickland House heritage tour Wind back the clock and explore the varied history of Strickland House on a guided tour. With stunning harbour views, it was home to leading figures of Sydney's establishment in the 19th century.
• Sydney Harbour kayak adventures to Goat Island Explore Sydney Harbour by sea kayak on this guided tour with Paddle Pirates. You'll experience marine life and discover the fascinating history of Goat Island, in Sydney Harbour National Park.
• Sydney top 10 hidden harbour beaches tours Live like a local and experience stunning harbour beaches and beautiful nature in and around Sydney Harbour National Park on these relaxed tours for very small groups.

Aboriginal culture and heritage

Before Australia became a British colony, the area around Sydney Harbour was occupied by the Eora and Daruk Aboriginal Nations. Upon the arrival of settlers and convicts, land was cleared to make way for the developing colony, and Aboriginal people were forced further and further away from their traditional camping and hunting grounds. As the colony spread, more evidence of Aboriginal life and culture was destroyed. Today, despite the great spread of the city, you can find many Aboriginal sites like rock engravings and middens - examples of an ancient and enduring cultural heritage and a record of the Eora Peoples' culture.

Burragula and Yiningma lookouts were designed to reflect Aboriginal connection to Country. They’re a great spot to share stories while relaxing on the beautiful sandstone seating in the shape of a bara or fishhook.

• Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head Arabanoo lookout at Dobroyd Head is named in honour of Arabanoo, the first Aboriginal man to live among European settlers. It's a great spot for whale watching, offering views over North and South Hea...
• Grotto Point Aboriginal engraving site Sydney Harbour National Park’s rock engravings immerse you in Sydney’s Aboriginal heritage. Head to Grotto Point at Dobroyd Head for historic rock art and scenic views.
• Living world WildTracker: Bradleys Head On a WildTracker excursion, Stage 3 (Years 5-6) students investigate and analyse the natural environment of Bradleys Head. Students identify and group species and discuss adaptations that help these s...
• Living world WildTracker: Nielsen Park On a WildTracker excursion, Stage 3 (Years 5-6) students will explore and analyse the natural environment of Nielsen Park. We'll identify and group species and discuss the adaptations that help these ...
• WildThings at Bradleys Head Book your WildThings school excursion for Stage 1 (Years 1-2) students in Sydney Harbour National Park. Together we'll explore the living world and identify the features that help native plants and an...

An island paradise

The park protects five historic harbour islands. Discover the rich convict and maritime heritage of Me-Mel or Goat Island, along with stunning views from all angles. Why not picnic at Rodd or Shark Island? Set aside for public enjoyment as early as 1879, both offer picnic areas, beaches and paths for you to explore. The park’s exceptional landscapes are the perfect setting for fishing, swimming, and soaking up the views. Head to Clark Island for an Aboriginal cultural experience or enjoy the city lights when you stay at Middle Head Officers Quarters. Sydney Harbour National Park is beloved by landscape photographers, so why not bring your camera and take a few shots? 

• Bradleys Head – Booraghee Amphitheatre Bradleys Head – Booraghee ('boo-ruh-gee) Amphitheatre is an exceptionally popular place within Sydney Harbour National Park. A fabulous lookout, it's also a great picnic area and fishing spot.
• Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walk Take the Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walk for beautiful views of Sydney Harbour. This easy walk takes you from Taronga Zoo to the beach and cafes at Chowder Bay.
• Fairfax walk Fairfax Walk is paved, making it an easy stroll and ideal for walking with children. Located at North Head in Sydney Harbour National Park, it's a great walk for whale watching.
• Luxury 3-day Sydney Harbour hiking tour Experience the best of Sydney Harbour National Park on this luxury multi-day hike with Harbour Trax. From scenic walks to gourmet dining and boutique accommodation, it’s the ultimate Sydney adventure.
• Manly Beach sunset cycling tour Pedal along the iconic Manly Beach and enjoy views of Sydney Harbour at sunset on a guided cycling adventure with Bonza Bike Tours.
• Sydney seaplane flight and Shark Island picnic Discover a whole new side to Sydney Harbour on a scenic flight with Sydney Seaplanes. You’ll fly through to Bondi before enjoying a decadent picnic on Shark Island.

Diverse landscapes

You'll find everything from sandstone cliffs and rocky foreshores to quiet beaches and bushland in Sydney Harbour National Park. Cliff instability and rockfalls have shaped Sydney's dramatic coastline over thousands of years. Visit the lookouts at North Head and enjoy the perfect vantage point for whale watching. With panoramic views you'll be able to absorb the sheer size of Sydney Harbour. Explore the bushland at Nielsen Park, South Head, Bradleys Head or along the Manly scenic walkway and find yourself beneath gigantic Sydney red gums and Port Jackson figs.

• Aboriginal cultural cruise in Sydney Harbour Join the friendly and knowledgeable guides of Tribal Warrior for a fascinating boat and island tour as you learn about the Aboriginal culture of Sydney Harbour.
• Bottle and Glass Point Bottle and Glass Point is an ideal picnic spot in Nielsen Park in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Enjoy lovely harbour views and relax in Sydney Harbour National Park.
• Guided kayak tours at Manly Beach Join the friendly local guides of Manly Kayak Centre for an unforgettable paddle and scenic walk. From ocean to hilltop, it’s a great way to enjoy the highlights of Sydney’s beautiful North Harbour, n...
• Manly hiking tour Join Fit City Tours for a guided hike in Sydney Harbour National Park. Setting out from Manly, you’ll walk for 10km along a rugged coastal track with iconic harbour views.
• Manly scenic walkway Also known as the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk, Manly Scenic Walkway is among Sydney's best walking tracks. Enjoy bush, beach and beautiful views on this excellent day walk.

Native birds and animals

You'll probably spot at least one of the park's 150 bird species on your visit, like a white-bellied sea eagle or a New Holland honeyeater. If you're near Manly, you may be lucky enough to glimpse an endangered little penguin as it is the state's only known mainland colony. If you happen to see unusual webbed footprints on a beach or shoreline, they may well belong to a native water rat looking for seafood in shallow water close to the shoreline.

• The earth's environment at Bradleys Head The earth's environment is a fun, Stage 1 (Years 1-2) geography excursion at Bradleys Head. Students will identify the physical features of this beautiful place. They'll discuss how people interact wi...

Plants and animals protected in this park

Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)

The humpback whale has the longest migratory path of any mammal, travelling over 5000km from its summer feeding grounds in Antarctica to its breeding grounds in the subtropics. Its playful antics, such as body-rolling, breaching and pectoral slapping, are a spectacular sight for whale watchers in NSW national parks.

Grass tree (Xanthorrea spp.)

An iconic part of the Australian landscape, the grass tree is widespread across eastern NSW. These Australian native plants have a thick fire-blackened trunk and long spiked leaves. They are found in heath and open forests across eastern NSW. The grass tree grows 1-5m in height and produces striking white-flowered spikes which grow up to 1m long.

Blueberry ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus)

The blueberry ash is a rainforest shrub which produces blue olive-shaped berries and spectacular bell-shaped flowers, which often appear on the plant together. It is a tall slender shrub or small tree found in rainforest, tall eucalypt forest and coastal bushland in eastern NSW, south-east Queensland and Victoria.

Flannel flower (Actinotus helianthi)

The delicate flannel flower is so named because of the soft woolly feel of the plant. Growing in the NSW south coast region, extending to Narrabri in the Central West and up to south-east Queensland, its white or pink flowers bloom all year long, with an extra burst of colour in the spring.

Smooth-barked apple (Angophora costata)

Smooth-barked apple gums, also known as Sydney red gum or rusty gum trees, are Australian native plants found along the NSW coast, and in the Sydney basin and parts of Queensland. Growing to heights of 15-30m, the russet-coloured angophoras shed their bark in spring to reveal spectacular new salmon-coloured bark.

Look out for...

Blueberry ash.

Elaeocarpus reticulatus

Environments in this park

• Coastal environments
• Eucalypt forest environments
• Heathland environments

Education resources (1)

• Who cares about national parks?, Stage 2 (Years 3-4), Geography

School excursions (8)

• Convict kids on Goat Island, Stage 2 (Years 3-4), History
• The earth’s environment at Bradleys Head , Stage 2 (Years 3-4), Geography
• The earth's environment at Arabanoo lookout, Stage 2 (Years 3-4), Geography
• The earth's environment at Bradleys Head, Stage 1 (Years 1-2), Geography
• Living world WildTracker: Bradleys Head, Stage 3 (Years 5-6), Science and Technology

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The rocks walk.

This is the area known as The Rocks. It's not large, but it makes for an easy and fascinating walk due to the history entwined in the streets, laneways and passageways.                                                             Picture: ©nzgmw/123RF.COM

Take a self-guided walk through the historic area known as 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 was 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 allow at least half a day, although the walk can be done in much quicker time. If you want to continue on to the steps that lead up to the pedestrian walkway on the harbour bridge, and then leisurely walk across the Harbour 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.

START AT CIRCULAR QUAY , in Alfred Street, and walk west to George Street. Turn right and you will see the Harbour Bridge in the distance. You are now in The Rocks district.

Continue along George Street and almost immediately on the left is the Russell Hotel. Although now a boutique hotel, it was built in 1887 on the site of what was once a "Moveable Hospital for His Majesty's Distant Possessions" (circa 1790).

Walk on and you'll come to the Fortune of War, which lay claims to the title of Sydney's oldest pub (circa 1828). (Of course the nearby Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, in Millers Point) also claims to be the oldest licensed hotel in Sydney.

The Fortune of War sits alongside a former bank, which dates back to the early 1880s, and just two doors from Australia's oldest police station, the original Rocks Police Station, which closed in 1974 and is now a museum. (A new police station is situated almost opposite.) You can inspect the cells of the old lock-up, which are much the same as when they were built in 1882.

Next to the historic police station building is an archway that leads to Surgeons Court, the site of where the First Fleet set up its portable hospital. This archway is a portal to an adventurous series of lanes and passageways that make up Nurses Walk.

Contender for the crown of Australia's oldest hotel, the Fortune of War.

Next to the police station is an archway that leads to Surgeons Court, the site of where the First Fleet set up its portable hospital. This archway is a portal to an adventurous series of lanes and passageways that make up Nurses Walk. The walkway was created in 1979 to honour the nurses who worked in the hospitals set up in The Rocks in the late 18th century and early 19th century. The site of the colony's first bakehouse can be found here. Small shops and cafes are scattered along the walk.

Nurses Walk runs into Suez Canal, a narrow passageway originally known as Cornwall Lane but which at one point was an open sewer. Understandably, it drew the nickname "Sewers Canal". It was later filled in but for most of the 18th century was the haunt of prostitues and gangsters.

There are some delightful cafes in this vicinity - some of them with outdoor courtyards - accessed by openings off the passageways.

Walk to the end of Suez Canal and, turning right into Harrington Street, you wil notice a series of small cottages built by the former convict William Reynolds in the 1830s. Reynolds was transported for life to Australia from Dublin. The cottages are a great example of the small dwellings of the time.

Turn right into Argyle Street and walk down to George Street. Diagonally opposite the intersection of George and Argyle Streets, at 110 George Street, is Cadmans Cottage, the oldest surviving residential building in Sydney - built in 1816 for the use of coxswains and their crews.

The building is the first to have been built on the shoreline of The Rocks.

From 1845 until 1864, Cadmans Cottage was the headquarters of the Sydney Water Police, then from 1865 to 1970 it became the "Sailor's Hom".

Cadmans Cottage, built in 1816, is the oldest surviving residential building in Sydney.                                                Picture: Julioenrekei, Wikimedia Commons

Restoration of Cadmans Cottage began in 1972 after it was proclaimed a heritage site under the National Parks and Wildlife Act. Control of the site was handed over to the Sydney Cove Redevelopment Authority.

The building is now used as the home for the Sydney Harbour National Parks Information Centre and is open to the public.

After leaving Cadmans Cottage, walk back the way you came and into Argyle Street. After a short walk, on the right you come to Playfair Street, a walkway with an interesting mix of shops, cafes, businesses and former warehouses. On Saturdays and Sundays, between 10am and 5pm, it hosts The Rocks Market. On Fridays, between 9am and 3pm, it hosts The Rocks Friday Foodie Market.

On the left, at Nos. 13-15 Playfair Street, is the "Argyle Terrace", which were built in 1875. The terrace is listed with the NSW government as having "state significance" due to the the style of the buildings and how they were constructed. The terrace is one of the only grouping of modest, speculative type terraces with Italianate details remaining in The Rocks area.

If you look closely you will notice that one of the doorways in the row of terraces provides access to a narrow passgeway. Walk through there and you will be surprised when you discover Foundation Park , a secret area that most Sydneysiders don't know about.

There are lots of passageways in this area to explore from here including Mill Lane on the right and, at the end of Playfair Street, Sydney's tiniest street, Atherden Street, which is 28 metres long and juts up to a sandstone rockface.

Playfair's Terrace, at 1-7 Atherden Street, is a continuous row of four two-storey Victorian terraces built in 1881 and is one of the historic focal points of Atherden Street, Sydney's shortest Street.        pictures - Wikimedia Commons: (left) Jerrye and Roy Klotz MD, (right) sv1ambo.

Despite Boyd's profiteering from the slaughter of whales, a NSW government named a national park in honour of him. The park's name remains, even though the NSW government promotes tourism through whale watching.

Leaving Atherden Street, backtrack into Playfair Street and turn right just before Argyle Terrace. You are now entering an area that has rough surfaces and quite a few steps. A passageway takes you through to Foundation Park, one of The Rocks' - and Sydney's - hidden architectural curiosities. Foundation Park is a cluster of housing ruins dating back to the late 1800s. The eight houses that were erected here were built into a sandstone cliff between 1874 and 1878. The site is perched on a hill and you can see how the houses were cut into rockfaces. The houses were knocked down in 1938, leaving the foundations. The Rocks is some of Sydney's most valuable commercial land, yet this curiosity of history remains to this day.

At the top of Foundation Park's steps, turn left into Gloucester Walk and continue to the end of the walk where you come to the Argyle Stairs. Later, you can return here and go up the stairs into Cumberland Street to get to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. But for now, go down the stairs and you exit into Argyle Street. Turn right and you are facing the "Argyle Cut", an historic tunnel cut through huge sandstone cliffs that enclosed The Rocks. The "Cut", which now serves as an underpass beneath the harbour bridge expressway, was originally created to provide access from Sydney Cove and The Rocks to Millers Point and Darling Harbour. It was begun in 1843 with convicts chipping away at the sandstone with picks but the work was suspended soon after due to the enormity of the task. In 1859 it was resumed, but this time with the use of explosives and council labour.

If you go through the Argyle Cut and walk a further 70 metres, you will notice parkland on your left with stairs that lead up to the grounds of the Sydney Observatory. If you make your way up to the top of the hill you will experience glorious views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the point where the Paramatta River flows into Sydney Harbour. There are beautiful shade trees here and you can sit on the lawn and enjoy the views. This spot is so scenic that it is constantly in demand for wedding ceremonies, so with a little luck you may catch a wedding during your visit.

Leaving Observatory Hill and backtracking through the Argyle Cut tunnel, and back to the Argyle Stairs, you now have a choice:

1. You can remain in The Rocks area Finish your walk with a visit to the Susannah Place Museum. To do so, continue down Arygle Street and turn right Harrington Street. Walk about 150 metres until you come to a sign on your right pointing to Susannah Place Museum ;

2. You can walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge To do this, go up the Argyle Stairs, turn left into Cumberland Street and walk across the road to the Bridge Stairs. These stairs will take you up to the pedestrian-only walkway that runs across the eastern side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge (there is a cycleway on the western side of the bridge).

Once on the walkway, you soon come to the pylons that support the bridge's 504-metre arch. The south-east pylon has a lookout, where for a small admission fee you can experience great views of the Opera House, city skyline and Sydney Harbour.

The walk across the bridge should take from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how many times you stop to admire the harbour and take photos. The pedestrian walkway also offers some great views of Circular Quay and the Opera House.

Once you've walked across the bridge, you can walk back and catch different views along the way or you can walk a further distance to where steps will take you down off the bridge. Once off the bridge, you have the option of walking to the nearby Milsons Point railway station and catching a train to the Quay, or else walking down the hill to the Milsons Point ferry wharf and catching a ferry to the Quay.

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Walking tour of Sydney

• 1 Understand
• 4.1 Town Hall to Hyde Park
• 4.2 St Mary's Cathedral to the State Library
• 4.3 The Domain to Mrs Macquarie's Chair to Royal Botanic Gardens
• 4.4 Sydney Opera House to Circular Quay to The Rocks
• 4.5 Sydney Harbour Bridge to Australia Square
• 4.6 Martin Place to Queen Victoria Building
• 4.7 Sydney Aquarium to Darling Harbour
• 4.8 Chinatown to Town Hall
• 4.9 Exchange - Commercial & Retail Sydney
• 5 Stay safe

This walking tour of Sydney is in Sydney , Australia . It takes in many of the major sights in and around the Sydney Central Business District.

Understand [ edit ]

Sydney is the largest city in Australia , and capital of New South Wales . Fortunately for visitors, it has a compact centre that is pedestrian friendly and brimming with star attractions.

The main sights in central Sydney can be covered on foot in a day's walking tour. It takes about 35-45 minutes to walk straight from Central Station to Circular Quay. Most attractions can be seen for free, but some of the locations require admission fees if you want to go in and have a detailed look around.

The complete tour is a large loop that covers sights in City Centre, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, and City South. It can take at least several hours and up to a full day, depending on speed, fitness level, and time spent at each location. It can easily be extended over several days with longer visits to some of the museums, galleries and shopping districts.

There are several optional loops listed on this tour, which will extend it further. You will have to be very fit and walk fast to complete all the options in a single day.

If you are short in time and wish to do only part of the walking tour, consider taking the Harbour side walk from Mrs Macquarie's Chair, with the waters to your right, down to the gated Royal Botanic Gardens, up to the iconic Opera House, down to Circular Quay, and up through The Rocks to the Harbour Bridge. This segment of the walking tour is for many the epitome of the Sydney experience.

Prepare [ edit ]

The climate in Sydney ranges from cool winters to hot summers. In the warmer months, it is imperative to protect yourself from the harsh Australian sun. Use a maximum protection sunblock (SPF 30+) on all exposed skin, and re-apply during the day. Wear a hat with a wide brim. Do not worry about making a fashion statement - Sydneysiders are very sun-aware and won't look twice at anyone in a sunhat. Sunglasses are also highly recommended.

In winter (i.e., April to September), central Sydney can get quite chilly, especially on a windy day, as the wind is funneled between the tall buildings. Wear a wind-resistant jacket.

This tour requires a good deal of walking, with some gentle slopes and a few stairs. Wear comfortable shoes.

There are plenty of places to buy food and drink along the way, but city prices can be expensive. Carrying your own bottle of water is a good idea if you don't like paying a lot for it. Filtered water fountains for top ups are available for free in many parks and tourist areas.

Get in [ edit ]

If staying near City Centre, you can pick up this walk at the nearest point to your accommodation.

If staying outside City Centre, catch a train to Town Hall Station or a bus to Town Hall on George Street for the starting point. If you are staying near a ferry wharf, you could catch a ferry to Circular Quay and begin the loop there.

By taxi, request a drop-off at Town Hall if coming from south of the harbor. If coming from north of the harbor, request Wynyard as your destination and join the walk there, to save the extra taxi fare down to Town Hall.

Walk [ edit ]

Town hall to hyde park [ edit ].

• A good place to start is on the steps of the Sydney Town Hall [dead link] . It is easily accessible by train (Town Hall station on the City Circle line) and bus. This is the place where Sydneysiders meet, wait and watch. If open, walk inside and have look around at the ornate interior and see the massive pipe organ. To the left of the entrance is a quiet café.
• Walk across Sydney Square and enter St. Andrew’s Cathedral [dead link] via the main entrance at the far end of the Square. After looking around, exit via the side entrance and head east up Bathurst Street towards Hyde Park.

• Cross Elizabeth Street and past the Obelisk (which is actually a vent for the sewer system) and into Hyde Park and head towards the ANZAC Memorial . You can enter the building via the side entrance at the ground level. There is a small museum to the right and ahead is a statue of a dead soldier being carried by the grieving women left behind in his life. Read the explanatory plaque and head upstairs to the main chamber where the eternal flame burns. Exit via the main doors and walk around the reflecting pool. On your right across College Street is the Australian Museum , which is worth a visit if you have more time in Sydney.
• Continue down the central path of Hyde Park and cross Park Street. Note the amazing canopy of trees as you walk towards the Archibald Fountain . This is a beautiful place, especially on a sunny day when rainbows form in the spray from the fountain. Head east towards the cathedral and cross the road. Located under the far end of the plaza (skateboard park) is the Cook and Philip Olympic Pool . You are welcome to have a look at the complex if you ask the staff member at the entrance counter.

St Mary's Cathedral to the State Library [ edit ]

• Enter St. Mary’s Cathedral [dead link] via the main stairs off the plaza and have a look around. The layout of the cathedral is unusual in that it runs north-south, rather than the usual east-west. Purchase a photography permit from the cathedral shop before taking photos of the interior. Exit the cathedral via the shop on the left side. Head north towards Macquarie Street.
• On your right is the Hyde Park Barracks [dead link] which was the principal male convict barracks in New South Wales until 1848. Enter via the front door and have a look at the first room on the left, which shows some of the historical uses of the building over the years. Also have a look through the shop and note the pet rats. You might also like to pay the entrance fee to look through the museum. Exit back onto Macquarie Street. Across the street is St. James Church and the Supreme Court of NSW, fronted by a large statue of Queen Victoria, facing a matching statue of Prince Albert in front of the Barracks. Look south for a magnificent view along Hyde Park's esplanade of trees, past the Archibald Fountain, to the ANZAC Memorial.
• The next building as you head north along Macquarie Street is The Mint ,which you are free to look around, followed by Sydney Hospital . Make sure to make a wish (and a donation) by rubbing the nose of the pig statue outside the Hospital.

• Across the road from the Hospital is Martin Place , the major open square within Sydney. It extends two blocks west; halfway down is the fountain featured in the "woman in red" scene in the film The Matrix . The first building on the left is the Reserve Bank of Australia , which has a free museum accessed via the buildings main lobby.
• Continuing north along Macquarie Street, the next building past the Hospital is the New South Wales Parliament House [dead link] . Enter via the stairs on the left and have a look around. Free tours are also available and give you direct access to the floor of the parliament chambers. Exit the Parliament and again continue north up Macquarie Street.
• Enter the new wing of the State Library of New South Wales via the revolving doors. Head up the stairs and left along the corridor to view the latest exhibition from the Library’s collection. Continue through to the end of the gallery, through the large doors and down the stairs to the main lobby of the old library building, note the old map in the floor. Enter the magnificent old Reading Room, which many Sydneysiders would never have visited. Exit the Library via the main entrance, note the images of aboriginal life in the heavy steel doors.

The Domain to Mrs Macquarie's Chair to Royal Botanic Gardens [ edit ]

• Turn right at the bottom of the library stairs and head east into The Domain [dead link] , where main city workers play sports and relax during their lunch breaks.

• Option: Head north-east and down the stairs towards Woolloomooloo. Head east past the main entrance to the Finger Wharf to Harry's Café de Wheels and have a pie with mashed potatoes and peas. This place is a Sydney institution and there is no place better after a long night on the town. Note the pictures which show some of the famous customers who have sampled the pies. From here you can also see the Garden Island Naval Dockyard . Head back to the Finger Wharf and enter via the main doors. Inside is located a hotel, posh bar and apartments which are home to some of Sydney's most famous residents, include Gladiator Russell Crowe who lives at the very end (which can only be accessed externally). Once finished here, head north along the waterfront past the yellow apartments, follow the path and climb the stairs. Go right at the top of the stairs and continue north. The Naval Dockyards should now be on your right.

• Walking north along Mrs. Macquarie's Rd, you will soon come to the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool . Continue north past the pool.

• At the end of the headland is Mrs. Macquarie's Chair , a large sandstone bench cut into the rock, reputed to be where colonial governor Lachlan Macquarie's wife sat watching for ships from England. This headland offers the most iconic photo opportunity in Sydney, including both the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Make sure to climb up into the sandstone caves and take in what must be one of the most beautiful views of any city in the world. If ever there was a place that made you feel like you are standing inside a postcard, then this is surely it.

• Continue south, with Farm Cove on your right, along the path towards the Royal Botanic Gardens [dead link] . The further south you go, the more the Opera House moves in front of the Harbour Bridge as you watch them across Farm Cove. Enter the Yurong Gate to the Royal Botanic Gardens (free!) It opens at 7AM. The gardens are extensive and reward detailed exploration. There are free guided walks at 10:30AM departing from the Palm Grove Information Counter. On fine days, many people relax on the grass with picnic lunches.

Sydney Opera House to Circular Quay to The Rocks [ edit ]

• Exit the Royal Botanic gardens via the Queen Elizabeth II Gate (follow the path northwesterly with the harbour on your right), which leads directly to the Sydney Opera House . Walk around the base of the Opera House along the shoreline to get a feel for the size and majesty of the structure, then climb the pink granite steps for a closer look at the famous white shells. Inside there is a public box office area, but access to the performance hall foyers and halls is restricted to event ticket-holders and guided tour groups. A guided tour of the interior is worthwhile if you have time.

• Leave the opera house by walking south along the pedestrian promenade of East Circular Quay . This controversial modern development offers many al fresco dining choices with stunning views, but was criticized for obstructing sight lines between Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Embedded in the walkway from East Circular Quay to West Circular Quay are 60 plaques celebrating Australian and other writers (Writers' walk).
• Circular Quay itself is the small cove with multiple wharfs, forming the terminus for most of Sydney's ferry services. This is a good departure point for day trips to Manly or Taronga Zoo . Walk along the promenade next to the wharfs, passing buskers and street entertainers.
• At the center of Circular Quay, walk south under Circular Quay railway station and across the large open square to Customs House [dead link] . This early colonial building now serves as a space for the City Library and cultural events. Walk into the lobby and examine the scale model of Sydney embedded under the glass floor.
• Go back to Circular Quay and continue walking around the shoreline to the west, turning north. The large art-deco building is the Museum of Contemporary Art , originally the Maritime Services Board offices.

• Continue north past the hulking Overseas Passenger Terminal , where passenger ships berth, giving them a fantastic view of the Opera House across the water of Sydney Cove. At the north end is Doyle's Restaurant , a Sydney seafood institution, where a fat wallet will get you a meal and a view.
• Turn inland and walk up to Hickson Road and then to George Street, placing you in the heart of The Rocks [1] . This historic district was the site of the first English settlement in Australia, and contains many original buildings. Walk north up George St.; this section of the street is closed to traffic on weekends and hosts The Rocks Market . Return south down George St. and turn right into Playfair Street, where there is a row of historic stone cottages (now turned into shops). Browse the shops in the restored Argyle Center . Emerge into Argyle St. and turn west up to the Argyle Steps which lead up the steep hill to Cumberland St.

Sydney Harbour Bridge to Australia Square [ edit ]

• Option : Continue all the way across the Bridge (20 min) to Milson's Point and down the stairs at the north end, then walk south down the hill to Bradfield Park , which offers superb views across the water to the city skyline. Go west under the bridge at water level and you will see the giant face of Luna Park , flanked by magnificent art-deco spires. This historic amusement park is open for walking around - you only need to pay if you want to go on one of the rides. Walk back up the hill and through the tunnel under the roadway to the stairs leading back up to the bridge deck and return south across the harbour.

• Once off the bridge, return to Argyle St. and walk west under the bridge. Turn left onto Watson Rd, which leads up to Observatory Hill , the site of Sydney Observatory . The observatory is open to the public and contains historical and astronomical displays.
• Return down Argyle St. to The Rocks and turn right into Nurse's Walk , a historical area now bustling with upmarket shops. At the far end, cross back into George St. and walk south.

• A few blocks down you will come across the unmistakable round white tower of Australia Square , Sydney's first skyscraper and tallest building from 1967 to 1976. The 47th floor contains The Summit, one of Sydney's prestige dining locations.
• Just south of Australia Square is Wynyard Station , a major commuter hub, but nothing to look at except a few signs pointing to underground entrances.

Martin Place to Queen Victoria Building [ edit ]

• Continuing south, you come across the western end of Martin Place . Enter the square to see the Cenotaph and The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier . At this memorial, the solemn ceremonies of ANZAC Day are performed at dawn each 25 April. In December, a giant Christmas Tree is erected in this space.
• The building on the corner of George St. at 1 Martin Place is the historic General Post Office , commonly known as the GPO . Considered to be the official center of Sydney, it has been redeveloped into a series of restaurants and shops, although the central post office for Sydney still occupies part of the building.
• Continue south down George St. At the corner of King St., the tiny historic Darrell Lea Shop (1957) still sells chocolates and resists attempts by developers to turn the property into a skyscraper.
• Just past the Darrell Lea shop, turn left into the historic Strand Arcade (1891). Brimming with upmarket shops, the arcade still retains its Victorian-era look.
• Walk all the way through the Strand and emerge at the far end into Pitt Street Mall , the hub of Sydney shopping. Even if you don't enjoy shopping, there is always plenty happening here, with street performers and plenty of people watching. Walk south along the pedestrian mall.
• At the south end, look up. The immense Sydney Tower [dead link] soars overhead. You can enter the tower by entering the Centerpoint shops and going up to Podium level. Tickets for the lookout at the top of the tower are moderately expensive, but provide stunning views on a fine day. Views are not so good if the pollution is bad.

• Leave Pitt St. and take Market St. west back to George St., where the majestic Queen Victoria Building occupies the next block. Cross George St. and walk through the QVB, admiring the restored Victorian architecture (now occupied with yet more shops). Take the stairs or antique lifts to the upper levels for historical displays and a close-up view of the giant animated clock, as well as sweeping interior architectural views.

Sydney Aquarium to Darling Harbour [ edit ]

• Exit from the same end of the QVB and continue west along Market St. It leads into a pedestrian bridge over a freeway and on to Pyrmont Bridge . This historic bridge was closed to vehicular traffic in 1981, and now provides a leisurely stroll across Cockle Bay .
• Before leaving the eastern shore, on the right is the Sydney Aquarium . Aficionados of sea life will find this well worth a visit.
• Across the bridge on the opposite shore, facing the Aquarium, is the Australian National Maritime Museum [dead link] , also worth a few hours and the admission price, if you have the time and inclination. Otherwise, turn left.
• Walk south along the shoreline of Darling Harbour . This large public space is characterised by modern architecture. Walk past the site of the new International Convention Centre Sydney (which opened in 2016) on your right. The Imax Cinema looms on your left as you continue south under the freeways into Tumbalong Park .
• At the southern end of the park is the Chinese Garden of Friendship . This place offers a calming slice of peace and tranquility in the bustle of the city. If you need a restful break, the admission charge is worth it.
• Beyond the Garden is the brutalist concrete architecture of the Qantas Credit Union Arena [dead link] (formerly the Sydney Entertainment Centre), where many major concerts and other events are held.

Chinatown to Town Hall [ edit ]

• From the intersection between the Garden and the Qantas Credit Union Arena, walk east up Goulburn St to Dixon St, and turn south into Sydney's Chinatown [dead link] . The food here is excellent and inexpensive, especially from the many food courts ensconced underground, or you can easily go upmarket with a fancy restaurant.
• At the southern end of Dixon St, cross Hay St into Paddy's Markets , which are open Thursday to Sunday. This vast, bustling hall full of vendors provides interesting sights, sounds, smells, and bargains.
• From Paddy's go along Hay St to George St and walk north back to Town Hall.

• Option: From Paddy's, walk south along George St. and turn east into Rawson St.., which leads to the magnificent old Central Station building, with its distinctive clock tower. Reminiscent of the old railway stations of Europe, the country terminus bustles with activity in a grand interior space. From here, walk north up Pitt St and cross back to George St. to return to Town Hall.

Exchange - Commercial & Retail Sydney [ edit ]

From imposing banks to opulent shops and old warehouses, much of Sydney’s commercial history can be seen in its buildings.

Sydney’s shops demonstrate the evolution of retailing from elaborate Victorian shopping arcades to multi-storey department stores.

This walk (search Exchange - Commercial & Retail Sydney online for detailed route) will take you through the heart of the City’s financial and retail district — Martin Place, George Street and Pitt Street — pointing out landmarks, their architectural features and the history behind them.

Stay safe [ edit ]

During daylight, the most dangerous thing you will encounter on this walk is traffic. Be careful crossing streets, remembering to look right for oncoming traffic if you are from a country where cars drive on the right side of the road. Many locals will dash across streets whenever there is a gap in the traffic, but it's better to obey the crossing signals for maximum safety.

You may be approached by a more or less scruffy looking beggar at some point, often requesting money for "a bus ticket home." Politely refuse and walk away and they will generally leave you alone.

If you remain on the streets after dark, stick to well-lit main thoroughfares. The area along George Street south of Town Hall can harbor boisterous youths who may have had too much to drink, although police presence means incidents are rare.

Along the water, especially at Circular Quay, anyone with food will be pestered by seagulls. They are harmless, but can be annoying and disconcerting. Avoid feeding them.

Go next [ edit ]

There are several other scenic walks within Sydney, taking in parts of the suburbs around the CBD area.

• Coogee Beach to Bondi A clifftop walk along the eastern coastline past several of Sydney's beautiful beaches. Stop off for a swim if you get too hot.
• Manly to The Spit Along the foreshore of Sydney Harbour.
• North Head to Manly walk a scenic historic walk that takes one along North Head
• Bondi to Manly Walk . The Bondi to Manly Walk (B2M) links all the existing coastal and harbour-side walking tracks between Australia’s two most famous surf beaches, Bondi Beach and Manly Beach.

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Explore Sydney like a Sydneysider

Walk with us on an adventure through sydney with our experienced local sydney guides.

The excursion was excellent and the students’ feedback was really positive. The whole experience was fantastic and I will definitely recommend your tours to other schools and teachers. Thank you for all the information and organisation that you sent prior to the day…much appreciated. I look forward to our next walking tour!

• Price – $12
• Duration – 105 Minutes (approx.)
• Location – The Rocks, Sydney, NSW
• Suitable for –  Year 3 & 4 students

Imagine a Sydney, hundreds of years ago where a local Cadigal people lived happily with their land, their harbour and bush. Every aspect of their lives was connected to this land. When the First Fleet arrived on their shores, claiming the land as their own, their lives were to be changed forever.

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Just wanted to thank you and your guides for a really enjoyable and informative day. We all enjoyed our historical walk and talks. Thank you for your excellent and prompt communication throughout the entire process from our initial first contact until the completion of the day. We will have no hesitation in recommending Sydney Walks to our fellow colleagues and partner schools.

• Duration – 90 Minutes (approx.)
• Suitable for – Year 3 & 4 students

Whether you were an Aborigine, a convict, free settler or officer, life in early colonial Sydney was agonising and frightening. Students will experience the different lives of early settlers as they each become a character from this time.

This experience is a must if you’re a history lover and want to know more about the early settlement and development of Sydney. Rob puts on a great tour, all the while being super friendly and accommodating. The route is fascinating, easy to walk, and full of history around every corner.

• Price – $45

Sydney is rich in history and heritage, and a guided tour of The Rocks is simply the best way to experience it! Hear tales of convicts, crime and punishment. Walk the old laneways and explore the preserved sites where over 200 years ago it all happened.

The locals here refer to themselves as Sydneysiders, and the harbour bridge as the Coathanger. As casual as that may seem, we are all immensely proud of our city and our culture. For almost 20 years, Sydney Walks have led thousands of proud locals, visitors and students on interesting and informative tours around Sydney.

01. Historical Walks

Discover the history of Sydney with one of our historical walking tours. Our guides will take you on a journey through time as you visit historic sites connected to the first European settlement in Australia. Consider the original Aboriginal inhabitants of the Sydney area, and learn how the earliest contact with the Europeans was often fierce but sometimes friendly. Hear factual and insightful accounts of Sydney through its centuries from our expert local Sydney guides.

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02. ARCHITECTURAL WALKS

As well as exploring Sydney’s architecture from the street, we also take a look behind the scenes with our unique Construction Tours, where we visit Sydney’s iconic buildings as they are transformed, re-purposed or refurbished. Our Construction Tours discuss the history of the sites, the architects, and their vision and inspiration behind the designs. Explore building sites, view plans and designs, and discuss the challenges encountered. If you have any interest in architecture, building and construction, then this is a must-do activity in Sydney.

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03. CULTURAL WALKS

Sydney is one of the most ethnically diverse and culturally vibrant cities in the world. With so much to see and do, the best way to absorb Sydney’s true culture is with a local Sydney Walks tour guide. Whether it’s an introduction to learn about Sydney and Australia, or you live here and want a truly memorable day out for your overseas visitors, we can tailor a walk, an experience or adventure in Sydney to remember.

04. SCHOOL EXCURSIONS for Years 3 & 4

Bring your students on an educational school excursion to The Rocks in Sydney, where they will discover first hand what life was like in Colonial Sydney. Visit the actual place where the First Fleet arrived over 200 years ago, and learn about the consequences of colonisation for both the Cadigal people and the newcomers. Our historical walks have been developed for stage 2 students in year 3 and year 4 studying HSIE History, First Contacts and Community and Remembrance content areas.

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05. SCHOOL EXCURSIONS for Years 5 & 6

Sydney Walks specialises in educational walking tours for Primary School students. Our walks are curriculum linked, and provide context and authenticity to complement the students’ classroom activities. We have tailored several historical walks specifically for school excursions in Sydney, which have been developed for stage 3 students in year 5 and year 6 studying HSIE History, The Australian Colonies and Australia as a Nation content areas.

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