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4 Days in Sydney – The Ultimate Sydney Itinerary

As Australia’s oldest and largest city, Sydney is one of the best-known Australian cities nationally and worldwide. With its grand colonial buildings, gorgeous cityscape, breathtaking coastline, vibrant nightlife, pleasant climate, and convenient public transport system, Sydney is often on the bucket lists of many travellers visiting Australia.

Since Sydney is densely populated with historic architecture and iconic landmarks, visiting Sydney will require advanced planning to make the most out of your stay, especially when visiting Sydney for the first time. Although it can take at least a week to thoroughly explore Sydney and its coastline, 4-day is sufficient for most visitors to get a feel of Sydney and its surroundings .

In this article, I have put together a detailed 4-day itinerary for visiting Sydney, based on my previous visits to this beautiful harbour-side city. It includes visits to Sydney’s most iconic attractions and beaches for a well-balanced trip. A range of galleries and museums within Sydney are also suggested to suit the needs of different travellers.

Where to Stay in Sydney

The only disadvantage of staying in Sydney CBD is its lack of parking space. Many accommodations within the CBD area either do not offer guest parking or charge an arm and a leg for a parking spot. If you are visiting Sydney by car, consider looking for accommodation in the suburbs instead.

Day 1: Sydney CBD

Circular Quay

As a vital bus, train, and ferry terminal, Circular Quay is a busy transport hub and a popular gathering spot in Sydney. By following the well-maintained walkway along the water from Circular Quay, you can obtain one of the quintessential views of Sydney: Sydney Opera House & Sydney Harbour Bridge.

During this short 15-minute walk from Circular Quay to Sydney Opera House , make sure you take the lift up to Cahill Walk Lookout (along Cahill Expressway) for a stunning view of the beautiful Circular Quay, with The Rocks and Sydney Harbour Bridge as a backdrop.

Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House is by far the most pictured and distinctive landmark in Sydney and Australia. This partially contributed to the common misconception that Sydney is the capital of Australia.

Officially opened its door in 1973, this grand performing art centre has been visited by millions of visitors each year & been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, with its breathtaking sea shells design.

Spreading across the entire Bennelong Point on Sydney Harbour, the beauty of Sydney Opera House can be appreciated in many different ways. You can appreciate this masterpiece while walking along the harbour on either side of the water, get a unique view of the opera house from the water, and obtain a birds-eye view of this grand design from the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

About the best time to visit the Sydney Opera House , you should see it both early in the morning and late at night. This is especially true if you want to snap photos of this masterpiece without the massive crowds. The area around the opera house starts getting more foot traffic as early as 8 am. If you are particular about your photos and do not like too many photo-bombers, you may need to arrive at the Opera House by at least 8 am, especially during the warmer months.

With that being said, make sure you also come back to visit this area after sunset to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and stunning city lights around the Opera House. If you happen to be in Sydney on New Year’s Eve and Australian Day, the area around the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge also hosts the most spectacular fireworks & make sure you don’t miss out!

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a massive and historic botanic institution that hugs Sydney Harbour & adjacent to the iconic Sydney Opera House. With its ideal harbour-side location, an enormous collection of native and exotic plants, and a range of well-maintained facilities, the Royal Botanic Garden makes a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll along the harbour.

Since Royal Botanic Garden Sydney covers 74 acres of land, you can easily spend hours and hours exploring its charming views and beautiful plantations. However, for this packed 4-day Sydney itinerary, you will likely not have the luxury of exploring it in depth.

To get the best views within the least amount of time, start your discovery journey of this stunning botanic garden from the opera house clockwise towards Mrs Macquarie’s Chair first. From Mrs Macquarie’s Chair , you will be greeted with a spectacular view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. This view is one of my favourites in Sydney & I believe you will enjoy it too!

From Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, you can either continue to follow the footpath clockwise towards the exit or head to a couple of gardens of your choice to visit.

There are various gardens within the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. My favourite is the Spring Walk near Lion’s Gate Lodge . Although it is beautiful any time of the year, as the name suggests, this colourful garden is even more charming during Spring.

St Mary’s Cathedral (Sydney)

Rebuilt after the fire in 1865, on the site of Australia’s oldest Catholic Chapel, St Mary’s Cathedral is a grand Gothic cathedral with its wide nave, high ceilings, and over 74-metre tall towers and spires. It is the most magnificent cathedral I have seen in Australia. Even with the high-rise buildings in Sydney, you can still see the towers and spires of St Mary’s Cathedral from afar.

Once you have stepped inside St Mary’s Cathedral, this massive architecture will soon bring you a great sense of peacefulness and serenity. Be sure also to check out its impressive statues, beautiful stained glass windows, and splendid organs.

Sydney Tower Eye

At over 300 meters in height, Sydney Tower Eye is one of the most prominent buildings in Sydney CBD. Located on the other side of Hyde Park, you can easily find this unique tower after visiting the stunning St Mary’s Cathedral.

Sydney Tower Eye is the tallest building in Sydney & offers the second-tallest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere (ranks just behind the Eureka Tower in Melbourne). From its observation deck, visitors can obtain an unparalleled panoramic view of Sydney with its surrounding mountains and ocean. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to adore Sydney’s beautiful skyline.

Queen Victoria Building (QVB)

After an entire morning of sightseeing, you will be keen to eat and sit down for a while. In that case, why not check out another historic landmark of Sydney, the Queen Victoria Building?

Queen Victoria Building is a heritage-listed late 1800s building named after Queen Victoria the second. With its glamorous domes and colourful stained glass windows , this 5-level shopping centre does look like a cathedral from certain angles.

Occupying an entire city block, the Queen Victoria Buildings houses a variety of upmarket fashion boutiques and jewellers. Even if shopping is not your thing, you will surely enjoy a stroll along the railed walkways within QVB to enjoy its charming art decor and exquisite mechanical clocks .

There are also various restaurants and cafes within the QVB. Many of them are perfectly positioned along the railed walkway, providing a spot for visitors to re-energise and soak in the fantastic atmosphere QVB presents.

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is another popular harbour-side precinct in Sydney. If you have enough time, there are enough attractions and activities within Darling Harbour for visitors to spend a few days easily.

For starters, every visitor should take some time to enjoy a stroll along the water to appreciate this charming harbour (Tips: Darling Harbour looks even more remarkable around sunset). For families with kids, check out Darling Quarter for its 21-metre-long flying fox and fun-filled waterpark. Various cafes and restaurants can also be found around Darling Quarter and the waterfront area for visitors to grab a bite and recharge.

You can also find a tranquil Chinese garden adjacent to the Darling Quarter, the Chinese Garden of Friendship . It is an oasis in the heart of Sydney’s city centre, with nicely designed pavilions, ponds, fountains, and artworks to fully immerse you in this gorgeous oriental garden. Entry ticket to the Chinese Garden of Friendship was AUD 12 per adult when I visited in October 2022 & it was well worth the price.

Sydney Chinatown

Adjacent to Darling Harbour, you will then find the bustling Sydney Chinatown. It is undoubtedly the largest Chinatown in Australia , with a massive selection of authentic Asian foods and various interesting Asian grocers. This area is, by far, my favourite place to find good food in Sydney!

If you are in Sydney on a Friday, check out Dixon Street for Sydney Chinatown’s famous Friday Night Market . Here you can find various outdoor food stalls selling a range of mouthwatering Asian street foods.

Another place you should also check out when visiting Sydney Chinatown is the famous Paddy’s Market. The building Paddy’s Market is located in, Market City, spans across an entire block, so it is one of the places you will likely walk by many times when in Sydney Chinatown.

Free Museums & Galleries

Many people think Sydney is expensive to visit. However, many quality museums and galleries are free of charge in Sydney. If you plan your visit well, you can easily enjoy an unforgettable and meaningful stay in Sydney at a very affordable price.

Here is a list of my favourite free museums and galleries in Sydney. You will likely need more time to visit all of them, but you can always pick a couple of them for this visit & keep the rest for your next stay.

Day 2: Manly

After a full day of walking around Sydney CBD, you will spend the second day relaxing at one of Sydney’s most stunning coastal suburbs, Manly.

Only a 30-minute ferry away from Circular Quay, across the picturesque Sydney Harbour, Manly is a popular Sydney suburb to discover among both locals and travellers. It is home to a beautiful stretch of surfing beach, Manly Beach , and offers many fascinating attractions.

From Sydney CBD, the cheapest and most scenic way of visiting Manly is by taking a ferry from Circular Quay. This way, you can take in the best views of Sydney Harbour without the hefty cost of a cruise tour. If you are taking the ferry service, make sure you plan the return trip to view Sydney Harbour’s nightly light show . Fireworks are held every Saturday at 9 pm from Darling Harbour as well.

You can also drive to Manly by car. The drive between Sydney CBD and Manly takes less than 30 minutes without traffic. However, parking can be an issue around Manly, especially on weekends and school holidays. That being said, it does give you more flexibility and options for visiting a few more attractions in and around Manly.

Manly Beach

Manly Beach is a long stretch of beautiful wide sandy beach, perfect for bathing and surfing. It was also home to the world’s first surfing contest in 1964. Well equipped with amenity rooms, lifeguards, picnic facilities, shops, cafes, and parks, Manly Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Short-term metre parking can be found along the pine-lined beachfront area. Free short-term parking of up to 2 hours can also be found along the back streets near Manly Beach.

Queenscliff Rockpool

Nestled under the cliff face at the northern end (Queenscliff end) of Manly Beach, Queenscliff Rockpool is a 50-metre-long public swimming pool , offering beachgoers a much calmer swimming environment. It also provides a rather impressive view of the wild ocean and Manly Beach & is a great spot to relax and watch the world go by.

Manly Wormhole (Queenscliff Tunnel)

If you are adventurous, you may explore further beyond Queenscliff Rockpool to discover the well-hidden Manly Wormhole, a.k.a. Queenscliff Tunnel.

Manly Wormhole is a rock tunnel through Queenscliff Head, dug out by local fishermen in 1908 for easier access to Freshwater Beach from Manly. Nowadays, this local secret has become a famous spot for photographers and tourists for its remarkable views of the rocky cliff and deep blue water.

The very reason why Manly Wormhole has been a local secret for over a century is how well hidden it is. Even with navigators, many visitors will still struggle to find it. My advice for locating Manly Wormhole is to disregard the navigators and locate Queenscliff Rockpool first.

How to access Manly Wormhole :

• Locate and walk towards the end of Queenscliff Rockpool.
• Take the steps up to the viewing platform (where the bench is) just behind Queenscliff Rockpool.
• Follow the rocky boulders along the bottom of the cliff (instead of heading up to the clifftop). It will be a little steep and rocky, so make sure you are wearing appropriate attire.
• Following the cliff edge for a bit. It will feel like there is no road ahead, but don’t give up.
• After a few minutes of doubting yourself, you will suddenly see the entrance to this long rock tunnel with the ” Enter At Own Risk” sign above. (The tunnel was in good working condition when I visited & I presume the sign was put up there because Manly Wormhole is not maintained/managed by the council.)
• Follow the rock tunnel to the end, where you will be presented with a magnificent view of Freshwater Beach and the southern end of Manly. For people who are interested in rock formations, I’m sure you will also be fascinated by the beautiful rocks along the cliff edge.

Shelly Beach

Located at the southern end of Manly Beach, Shelly Beach is a small sandy beach offering access to a beautiful aquatic reserve, peaceful walking tracks, and picturesque lookouts. With only a short 15 minutes walk along the water from Manly Beach, this is another must-visit spot in Manly.

Visitors can also park their cars at Shelly Beach’s designated parking lot , which is metre parking for up to 4 hours between 7 am and 7 pm daily (as of October 2022). Free off-street parking for up to 2 hours is available too, but they are difficult to come by.

The sheltered water at Shelly Beach is also very calm, making it the perfect spot for safe swimming. With a cafe right by the beach, this spot is great for spending an entire afternoon.

There is also a short 10-15 minutes loop walk ( Shelly Beach Walking Track ) along the clifftop on the eastern side of Shelly Beach. It offers a few stunning lookouts of the wild ocean and the nearby rocky cliffs. This loop walk can be accessed directly from either Shelly Beach or its car park.

Sydney Harbour National Park

Sydney Harbour National Park is a 392 hectares national park located south of Manly. It offers beautiful coastal walking tracks , peaceful picnic spots , and fantastic harbour views . It is also home to North Head Quarantine Station and North Fort , great places for visitors to learn about Sydney’s past.

Direct bus between Manly Wharf and North Head Quarantine Station is available to bring visitors to and from Sydney Harbour National Park.

Freshwater Beach & Freshwater Rockpool

Freshwater Beach is the first beach north of Manly. It is easily accessible by car or foot from Manly Beach. Wedged between two headlands, Freshwater Beach is an excellent spot for swimming and surfing .

You can find a paved walkway along the northern end of Freshwater Beach. It provides access to a beautiful 50-metre-long rock pool ( Freshwater Rockpool ) and a close-up view of the fascinating rock formations along this coastline. Along this walk, you can also find many small natural rock pools , perfect for snorkelling .

South Curl Curl Beach

A short walk north of Freshwater Beach, you can then find the picture-perfect South Curl Curl Beach. Being one of the best surfing beaches in Sydney, with a view no less impressive than Bondi Beach but with much fewer crowds, South Curl Curl Beach is my favourite beach in Sydney .

You can also find many free parking options around South Curl Curl Beach, making it more accessible to beachgoers. Cafe and amenity rooms are also available at South Curl Curl Beach.

Since the surfs at South Curl Curl Beach are usually quite large, a well-maintained rock pool ( South Curl Ocean Pool ) is available at the southern end of South Curl Curl Beach for safe swimming. It is also a great spot to view this stunning beach and open ocean.

South of the South Curl Ocean Pool, you will find an elevated boardwalk towards the direction of Freshwater Beach and Manly Beach. This is the famous Curl Curl Boardwalk.

Curl Curl Boardwalk is a roughly one-kilometre-long coastal walk between South Curl Curl Beach and Freshwater Beach. It offers a breathtaking ocean view and a spectacular display of colourful ‘curly rocks’. The walk takes about 10 minutes one-way, but you will likely spend much longer admiring and taking photos of these fascinating rock formations.

Evening Walk along Sydney Harbour

After heading back to Sydney CBD, take a relaxing walk around the Sydney Opera House to admire its beauty at night. Better still, grab a drink or dinner at one of the harbour-front restaurants or bars to soak in this million dollars view.

Day 3: Kirribilli & The Rocks

After exploring Sydney CBD and the famous Manly area, you will discover some of Sydney’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, Kirribilli and The Rocks, on the third day of this itinerary.

Tips: Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes today, as the streets and laneways in Kirribilli and The Rocks can get very steep. You will also find many stairs to climb today.

Located on the north shore of Sydney Harbour and directly opposite the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, Kirribilli is one of Sydney’s most prestigious and established suburbs. It is also famous for being the residence of the Prime Minister of Australia and the Governor General of Australia .

The prime location of Kirribilli makes walking around Kirribilli a visual sensation, with the views of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, and Sydney Harbour Bridge at every corner you turn. Being an affluent and prestigious suburb, you will also find many colonial and victorian buildings along the streets of Kirribilli.

Positioned along Sydney Harbour, you can easily access Kirribilli by ferry . If you are staying within Sydney CBD, a stroll towards Kirribilli via the remarkable Sydney Harbour Bridge is certainly a must-do. Off-street parking is available around Kirribilli, primarily short-term parking. In my opinion, public transport is the better option for visiting Kirribilli if you don’t wish to deal with the hassles of finding suitable car parks.

Kirribilli House

Kirribilli House is a Gothic-style building with an incredible view of the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, and Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is best known for being one of the two official residences of the Prime Minister of Australia .

Admiralty House

Adjacent to the Kirribilli House & located at the tip of Kirribilli Point, Admiralty House offers an unobstructed view of Sydney Harbour . It is undoubtedly one of the prime spots to admire Sydney.

Mary Booth Lookout Reserve

Marry Booth Lookout Reserve is a brilliant public reserve offering million-dollar views of the incredible Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Cove, and Farm Cove. You can either enjoy a picnic along its soft green lawn or sit on one of the benches along the reserve to relax and soak in the breathtaking view it offers.

After rejuvenating yourself at Mary Booth Lookout Reserve, follow the walkway along the waterfront to check out the views from Milsons Point , right beneath the giant Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Luna Park (Sydney)

Although not a giant amusement park, Luna Park Sydney offers a variety of crowd-favourite rides and games, such as carousels, roller coasters, and ferris wheels. There are also many kiosks scattered around the park for everyone to grab a bite and relax.

Tips: watch out for those fierce seagulls when enjoying your delicious meal.

Entrance to Luna Park Sydney is free , but you need to buy tickets for each ride within the park. Alternatively, daily passes are available, which will work out much cheaper if you take multiple rides.

Lavender Bay

After visiting Luna Park, make sure you follow the Peter Kingston Walkway along the water to admire the peaceful Lavender Bay before heading back to the hustle and bustle of the city.

Lavender Bay is a peaceful area tucked between Milsons Point and Mcmahons Point. The walk along Lavender Bay is perfect for a leisure stroll to bring out your inner peace. There is also a picturesque jetty towards the end of Peter Kingston Walkway. It is an excellent place to take a break and take in the beauty of this harbour.

After visiting the jetty, follow the steep steps behind the jetty to visit the beautiful Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden.

Tucked in Clark Park, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden is filled with colourful flowers, such as lavenders and bush lilies, making it a scene from the fairytale. It also provides a charming view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is undoubtedly a city oasis where you can wind down from the bustling city.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Harbour Bridge is another famous landmark of Sydney. It is also one of the most visible landmarks along Sydney Harbour.

Sydney Harbour Bridge is a steel bridge arched across Sydney Harbour, connecting Sydney CBD to North Sydney. This giant bridge accommodates many forms of traffic, from pedestrians and bicycles to cars and rails.

Being the world’s tallest steel arch bridge, Sydney Harbour Bridge offers a spectacular view of Sydney Harbour and the adjacent harbour-side neighbourhoods. This makes Sydney Harbour Bridge a popular spot for sightseeing.

There are many ways of admiring the views from Sydney Harbour Bridge. The most budget-friendly and easily accessible form of acquiring this spectacular view is by taking a stroll along its Pedestrian Walkway.

Pedestrian Walkway

Located on the east side of Sydney Harbour Bridge, the pedestrian walkway along Sydney Harbour Bridge offers a bird’s eye view of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, and The Rocks.

The pedestrian walkway can be accessed from Milsons Point on its northern end or The Rocks on its southern end via the Bridge Stairs or the elevators. A one-way walk along the pedestrian walkway is about 1.5 kilometres, which took me about 20 minutes to complete, with plenty of photos taken along the walk.

Since it is also a way of commuting between Sydney CBD and North Sydney, you may find yourself walking along Sydney Harbour Bridge more than once during your visit to Sydney. If that’s the case, make sure you time one of your walks around sunset to get the most magical views of Sydney Harbour during your walk.

Pylon Lookout

Being closer to the CBD end of Sydney Harbour Bridge, the entrance to Pylon Lookout is only a short walk along the bridge via the Bridge Stairs on The Rocks end. From the base, you will need to take roughly 200 steps within the tower to reach its top lookout platform. Within the tower, there is also a museum telling the history of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which is quite fascinating.

Although lower than you would have reached with a bridge climb, a visit to Pylon Lookout provides an impressive panoramic view of Sydney nonetheless. With ticket costing only AUD 19 per adult (January 2023), it is also the most cost-effective way for a 360-degree view of Sydney Harbour.

Bridge Climb at Sydney Harbour Bridge (BridgeClimb Sydney)

If you are not scared of heights and love a bit of adrenaline kick, Bridge Climb at Sydney Harbour Bridge might be for you.

After coming off Sydney Harbour Bridge from its southern end, you will be stepping into one of Sydney’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, The Rocks.

As the birthplace of modern Sydney and the oldest neighbourhood in Sydney , The Rocks is a must-visit spot when in Sydney. Nestled right beneath Sydney Harbour Bridge & adjacent to Circular Quay, a walk around The Rocks will bring you to discover a thriving harbour-front promenade with entertaining buskers, cobbled laneways bring you back to the 1800s, and charming old-school pubs telling its rich maritime history.

Cadman’s Cottage

Built in 1816, Cadman’s Cottage is the oldest surviving building in The Rocks . Located next to the Government Dockyard, this Georgian building was initially created for the men working in the Government Boats, later used by Sydney Water Police, before becoming the Sailor’s Home until 1970, when it was formally classified as a Historic Site.

Free guided tours of Cadman’s Cottage are available on the first and third Sundays of each month between 0945 to 1015 for visitors who would like to gain more insights into this heritage-listed building.

The Rocks Market

The ken done gallery.

Visitors can browse through and purchase from Ken Done’s beautiful collections. Affordable prints of his artworks are also available, making great souvenirs even if you are yet to be ready to splurge on an original painting.

Campbells Cove

Campbells Cove is part of The Rocks harbour-front promenade.

In addition to being a prime spot for viewing Sydney Harbour and Sydney Opera House, Campbells Cove is a vibrant gathering place , with a range of restaurants and bars occupying the original sandstone warehouse from Campbells Bonds Stores .

Observatory Hill Lookout

Observatory Hill Lookout is located on a small grassy hilltop between The Rocks and Barangaroo, right in front of the Sydney Observatory (free entry with interesting exhibits & should be checked out if open during your visit).

Observatory Hill Lookout’s elevated location provides a breathtaking view of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and North Sydney. It is an idyllic spot to enjoy a sunset picnic while admiring the beauty of this buzzing city and watching the world goes by.

Observatory Hill Lookout is a perfect spot for photos with its stunning harbour view and charming rotunda. Depending on the day and time you visit, you might also find people taking wedding photos here.

Day 4: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Bondi Beach is Sydney’s most iconic and well-known beach for its world-class waves and breathtaking scenery. Over the years, the popularity of Bondi Beach has also transformed this coastal area into a trendy neighbourhood with streets lined with quirky cafes, bars, and shops.

Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is a one-kilometre stretch of wide sandy beach, serving impressive waves for surfers from all over the world. With a range of well-established facilities along Bondi Beach, it makes a popular spot for locals and visitors to visit and spend the day, especially during those hot summer months.

Only 8 kilometres from Sydney CBD, visitors can easily access Bondi Beach by taking a direct bus from the city to Bondi Beach. Short-term parking , free and metered, is around the streets of Bondi Beach but can be very hard to come by.

For many people from somewhere other than Sydney or Australia, you might have first gotten to know Bondi Beach via the reality TV show Bondi Rescue . If you are a fan of this TV show, you should definitely pay extra attention when visiting during the summer months to spot those cast members.

During the weekends, make sure you also check out the school just behind the northern end of Bondi Beach. On Saturdays, it houses the Bondi Farmers Market , where you can find a range of fresh local produce. On Sundays, it will turn into Bondi Market , offering a vast selection of handcrafted jewellery and local fashion designs.

Bondi Icebergs

Bondi Icebergs is open all year round. Although it is a swimming club, you do not have to be a club member to swim or dine at Bondi Icebergs. Pool access at Bondi Icebergs is currently AUD 9 per adult (January 2023), which is a very reasonable price for the experience and spectacular views you will get.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

After spending a lovely morning and enjoying a delicious lunch at Bondi Beach, you will now be heading south from Bondi Beach, following the famous Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk to discover more of this beautiful coastline and some of its lesser-known beaches.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a 6-kilometre walk along the picturesque coastline between Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach. It only takes less than 2 hours to complete this walk (one-way), but with many beautiful beaches and quirky cafes dotted along the coast, you will likely be spending an entire afternoon, if not longer.

If you take this coastal walk in late Spring, you will also find over 100 sculptures along the cliffs between Bondi Beach and Tamarama Beach. This is the famous Sculpture by the Sea , the world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition.

Between May and November each year, whale watching is another popular activity along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. During this time of the year, the migrating whales are relatively close to shore and can be viewed from many of the headlands along this coast.

Coogee Beach

Coogee Beach is located at the southern end of Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. With a spacious promenade area and various eateries, Coogee Beach is the perfect spot to relax and recharge after your 6-kilometre walk from Bondi Beach.

At Coogee Beach, you can enjoy a surf at the beach, take a swim in its stunning rock pool, stroll along its beautiful promenade, sample a delicious meal along Coogee Bay Road, or explore the charming historic buildings lining the streets of Coogee Beach.

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A Sydney 4-day itinerary for first time visitors

• July 25, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I will receive a small commission if you use these links.

What to do in Sydney - A 4 day itinerary for first-time visitors

Located on Australia’s popular East Coast, Sydney is one of the most visited cities in Australia and it’s not hard to see why. From its famous landmarks like the iconic Opera house and Sydney Harbour bridge to the gorgeous sandy beaches of Bondi and Manly, Sydney attracts tourists from all over the world.

With so much to see and do in Sydney it can be overwhelming, especially if you are visiting for the first time and only have a few days. So if you’re asking yourself questions like, ‘How long do I need in Sydney?’, ‘What is there to do in Sydney’ and ‘Where are the best places to visit in and around Sydney?’ , don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. In this short handy guide, I’ll share the best things to see and do in Sydney (even if you only have a few days!), neatly packaged into a handy 4 day itinerary that you can follow.

Looking for another great Australian city to visit? Check out all the best things to see and do in Melbourne, Victoria

Table of Contents

How many days do you need in sydney, australia.

There are so many great things to see and do in Sydney, it is a big city and there’s something for everyone. However, I would say that 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in Sydney as a first-timer. This will allow you to see the “highlights” without feeling like you are zooming around in a rush. Of course, if you are tight on time you could spend just 2 days here by just staying in Sydney’s CBD (Central Business District), and taking the Hop on, Hop off bus to travel around the main sights in the city. Personally, I feel that you would be missing out on some of the great things Sydney has to offer with just two days. We stayed for 4 days (5 nights) and felt that it was a good amount of time.

Sydney is also a great place to start your east coast road trip. Make sure that you visit the popular backpacking town of Byron Bay and stop by the Koala hospital in Port Macquarie !

What are the best things to see and do in Sydney, Australia?

In this post I am sharing my full itinerary for how we spent 4 days in Sydney, which will cover all my top things to see and do in Sydney within those 4 days, including how we spent each day in the different areas of Sydney. If you would prefer to see a list with just the top places to visit, so that you can incorporate it into your own itinerary, I have written a separate blog covering 15 great things to see and do in Sydney which will give you a run down of the best places to visit.

How to spend 4 days in Sydney - a full itinerary

Day 1 - wander around darling quarter and darling harbour - two of the best areas to visit in sydney's cbd.

The iconic landmarks of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge have made Circular Quay one of the most visited spots in Sydney, however I much preferred the area around Darling Quarter and the Harbour there. For me, Darling Harbour had a much nicer atmosphere than Circular Quay and it was far less industrial (as it is not the main ferry/cruise port). There are bars and restaurants all around the edge of the harbour, and you’ll also find the Australian National Maritime museum and Sea life aquarium here too.

Just set back from the harbour is Tumbalong Park, which is a great spot to sit on the grass, cool your feet in the water feature and watch the world go by. After spending some time at the park and harbour, make sure you visit Darling Square, in the heart of Darling Quarter. There are some great shops in this area and it has a really nice vibe to it.

We spent the afternoon just wandering around Darling Quarter and Darling Harbour and enjoying the sun in the park with an ice cream. In the evening, we headed to the Harbourside shopping complex, which has a decent sized foot court, perfect for grabbing something to eat if you’re on a budget! After picking up some food, we took it outside to sit on the water’s edge overlooking the harbour. Who needs fancy restaurants anyway?!

You could easily spend a full, leisurely day around Darling Quarter and Darling Harbour, visiting all the shops and enjoying a long lunch, but if you prefer things at a faster pace, or you’re short on time, then it’s a great place to spend the morning or late afternoon and you could easily combine sightseeing here with a visit to Circular Quay. Whatever you choose, just make sure to visit! In my opinion Darling Quarter and Darling Harbour are two of the best places to visit in Sydney.

Day 2 - Visiting Sydney’s most iconic landmarks - the Opera House and Harbour Bridge

By now, you’re probably itching to visit Sydney’s most famous sights – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House! Located in Circular Quay, these iconic landmarks are what Sydney is most famous for, so make sure to soak up the atmosphere and spend the day exploring this area of the city.

When I visit a new place, I love devising my own walking tour. Personally I feel that strolling around on foot is the best way to see all the sights, it also just happens to be one of the best things to do in Sydney (or any city) for free! The walking tour I created took us to some of Sydney’s most popular must-see spots including the Sydney Botanical Gardens, Circular Quay – stopping at the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, then onto Barangaroo Reserve, the Sydney Observatory and finally to the area of The Rocks. Here’s the full details of the route we took:

Sydney DIY walking tour

Arriving at Circular Quay, we walked past the Opera House and headed straight to the botanical gardens , enjoying a picnic on the beautiful lawns, with a view across the harbour. We then continued walking around the gardens, to the other side until we reached Mrs Macquarie’s chair – a viewing point which offers fabulous views across the bay of both the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. This is one of the best places to snap a photo of the Sydney Opera House.

Leaving Mrs Macquarie’s Chair viewpoint, we re-traced our steps back through the botanical gardens to the Opera House. After wandering around the outside of the Opera House and taking some photos, we followed the harbour round to the other side, to Hickson Road reserve – a small green area just underneath the Harbour Bridge. The Opera House and Harbour Bridge are the most popular sights in Sydney, so, as you can imagine, it does get busy around this area but these are both absolute must-see spots when you are in Sydney!

This is a great opportunity to try one of the many activities around Sydney Harbour. Take on the Sydney Harbour bridge climb, kayak under the bridge or opt for something much more relaxed with a cruise. 

Continuing the DIY walking tour from Hickson Road Reserve, follow the road underneath the bridge and walk along Walsh Bay Promenade to Barangaroo Reserve. This is a really lovely walk along the water’s edge and there’s several cafes along the way if you fancy a drink or get peckish.

From Barangaroo Reserve, follow Argyle Street and walk up to the Sydney Observatory for great views of the Harbour Bridge and across the water towards Luna park (an old fashioned theme park) in North Sydney. The Observatory Hill Park has one of the best viewpoints over Sydney Harbour and is especially beautiful at sunset.

To finish the day, head back down towards Circular Quay to explore the fashionable area of The Rocks . The Rocks is one of the best areas to explore in Sydney, especially if you’ve only got a couple of days in the city. This area is full of small lanes with cafes, restaurants, independent shops and boutiques. At the weekend, there is also a craft market here. 

Sydney Harbour at night

In the evening, the Opera House and Harbour bridge are illuminated and look really beautiful, especially as the lights reflect off the water. When we visited, there was a light art installation at the Opera House, where patterns where projected onto the Opera House sails. So we watched this for a bit, before having a drink in the bar in front of the Opera House, looking across to the Harbour Bridge.

This was a pretty full-on day, with lots of walking, but we got to see A LOT! If you don’t want to walk as far as we did, then I would say skip the section between the Harbour Bridge and Barangaroo reserve and just head straight to The Rocks instead.

Day 3 - A day trip to Manly - one of Sydney’s most popular suburbs and surfing spots

On your third day in Sydney, head out of the city and take the public ferry from Circular Quay across to Manly, a beach-side suburb in North Sydney. There are two ferry’s that take you across to Manly, a 30 minute ferry and a slightly more expensive but 10 minute shorter ‘fast ferry’. 

The ferry trip itself is one of the best activities you can do in Sydney because you’ll get gorgeous harbour views from the boat and some amazing photo opportunities!

Australia’s East Coast has many great surfing spots, including the nearby town of Newcastle . But Manly is one of Sydney’s best surf spots. It is famous for holding the world’s first surfing competition, back in 1964. Annual surf competitions are still held in Manly and surfers flock to this beach every year, making the now iconic Manly beach one of Australia’s most famous beaches.

One of the best things to do in Manly – apart from visiting the beach – is to walk the scenic coastal path from Manly wharf to North head.

This is a lovely coastal walk, which passes several small beaches along the way, including Collins beach with its secluded cove and waterfall. From North Head, the path takes you back towards Manly beach through Patrick’s estate – a prestigious international business college houses in an English castle-like building.

Back in the centre of Manly – take your time to stroll round the surf shops and enjoy lunch in one of the many cafes. There’s a really nice laid-back atmosphere to Manly, and in my opinion, it is one of the best places to visit in Sydney. 

Day 4 - Visiting Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach

You can’t visit Sydney without spending the day at its most iconic beach – Bondi beach! Bondi beach is one of Australia’s most famous beaches thanks to its pristine white sand, plentiful restaurants, bars and proximity to Sydney’s CBD (which is just a short bus ride away).

One of the best things to do at Bondi beach (and in Sydney!), is the Bondi-Coogee coastal walk. The 6km walk follows the coastline from Bondi to Coogee and usually takes around 2-3 hours, but it depends how often you stop at the various swimming spots and suburbs along the way!

The coastal walk is beautiful and it is definitely up there as one of the best things to do in Sydney, rivalling the Port Macquarie coastal path.

After your walk, spend the afternoon lazing on Bondi beach, or take a dip in one of Australia’s oldest swimming pools – the iconic Bondi Iceberg, located at the southern end of the beach.

This wraps up my 4 day itinerary of Sydney – As first-timers to Sydney, we wanted to cover the main spots in and around the city without feeling rushed and I think 4 days was perfect for that. Of course, you could easily spend more time here by taking it even slower than we did, or by visiting even more of the attractions in and around Sydney.

If you want to get out in nature and do some hiking, then the Blue Mountains are only a 2 hour train ride from the city and are one of the most popular day trips from Sydney. Personally, I would recommend having several days to explore the area. The Blue Mountains are so beautiful and we really enjoyed the few   days we spent there hiking. However, if you’re short on time, or want the convenience of someone else to plan your trip, there are lots of tours to the Blue Mountains from Sydney to choose from. 

What is a good area to stay in Sydney, Australia?

I’ve been to Sydney twice. The first time, we stayed in the Great Southern hotel , which was just a few minutes walk from the central bus and train station, at the end of George Street. George Street is the main street running through this part of the city, linking the central station to Circular Quay, where the Opera House and Harbour bridge are located. There is a tram which runs frequently running the full length of George Street which is really handy!

The second time we visited Sydney, we stayed at the Darlo Bar in Darlinghurst .  This was another great budget option, in a central location.

Sydney is a big city, but basing ourselves in these areas, we found it really easy to get to all the main sights and also hop easily on a bus, tram and boat to go further afield. I would say the closer to the centre, the better, especially if you only have a couple of days here as you don’t want to spend long travelling in and out each day.

Is Sydney expensive?

As with any destination, there are luxury options and budget options. We were visiting Sydney as part of our Australian East Coast road trip and were backpacking, though I would say we had a moderate budget for a backpacking trip – setting ourselves a limit of £70 per person (including accommodation and transport). With that we were able to stay in a 3 star hotel and had enough left to cover food and drink and anything else we wanted to do.

When researching accommodation, I found that many of the hostels were actually more expensive than hotels for a private room, so my advice would be if there’s two or three of you travelling and you want a private room, definitely check out hotel prices before booking a hostel under the assumption that it would be the cheapest option.

Most of the activities we did in Sydney were essentially free – there’s so many places you can walk in Sydney and see something different that you don’t actually need a big budget. We also saved money on food and drink by having picnics or getting takeaways and eating them alongside the harbour or in one of the parks on a couple of evenings or for lunch. The main thing we paid extra for was the tram, the ferry to Manly and the bus to Bondi beach, but again, these were all relatively low cost items.

For tips for travelling on a budget and to download my free budget template, check out my post on how to budget for full time travel, here.

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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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The perfect 4-day Sydney itinerary, Australia

Updated On 1st February, 2024

When heading to Australia,  Sydney  is often up there at the top of  one’s bucket list…  and for good reason too.

Located in New South Wales, on the East Coast of Australia, Sydney is world famous for its  Harbour Bridge , the  Sydney Opera House  and it’s annual  New Year firework spectacular  (to name just a few things).  Travellers come from all over the world to experience this city-seaside destination. Sydney is also a very popular destination choice for those embarking on a desirable  working holiday visa in Australia .

Sydney  is one of the best places to visit in  Australia  and not one you should miss off your  East Coast Australia bucket list. 

Sydney is often the touchdown point for travellers arriving in  Australia  because of Sydney’s International Airport located just outside the city centre, but that’s not the only reason to find yourself here. Whether it’s to indulge in the northern beaches and explore the seaside surf town of  Manly , walk the famous  Coogee to Bondi coastal walk,   grab brunch at one of the many  brunch spots in Sydney,  explore one of  Sydney’s many stunning walks  or to have an early evening cocktail at the  Opera House bar for sunset , Sydney has everything you desire from lazy beach days to cosmopolitan cocktails downtown.

There’s is so much to do in Sydney and so if you want to cover all of the best things to do in Sydney, I’d suggest putting aside a week to explore. However, if you’re short on time but still looking for some fun things to do in Sydney, I’ve created a 4-day Sydney itinerary and a  3-day Sydney itinerary  to inspire you.

In this blog post, I’ve jam-packed 4 days’ worth of  Sydney  adventure into an itinerary that will have you seeing the very best of Sydney!

Other posts that may help you plan your trip to Australia:

• Farm work in Australia: How to find work, top tips and advice
• A complete guide to Australia
• A complete guide to Sydney
• A complete guide to solo travel in Australia
• A guide to budgeting for backpacking Australia
• Planning your transport in Australia
• 20 of the best day trips from Sydney
• A complete guide to Manly, Sydney

EXPLORE SYDNEY ON MY BLOG HERE

On a backpacker budget? Here are  25 top tips for saving money and travelling on a budget!

For everything you need to know about your trip to Sydney, including where to stay, things to do, and all my top tips, check out my  complete guide to Sydney here!

Here’s the perfect 4-day Sydney itinerary…

Day 1 of your sydney itinerary.

First things first, arrive at and check into your accommodation, drop your cases, freshen up, and get ready to explore the best things to do in Sydney!

If you aren’t sure where to stay in Sydney, check out my Sydney hostel guide here. 

If you’re looking for a new set of suitcases, I’ve recently invested in the  LEVEL8 luggage  and I love them! I went for the  Textured Luggage 2 Piece Set  in Olive Drab because of their unique colour (I can actually tell which is my luggage on the conveyor belt now haha!).

I’d highly recommend checking them out if you need a new set, they are so smooth to travel with. Worth noting that these ones have 360 spinner wheels, TSA-approved combination lock, and inner dividers AND they are super lightweight!

Explore  The Rocks.  Wander around one of the oldest parts of Sydney, located just beside Sydney Harbour Bridge. Look around the boutique shops, grab lunch in one of the gorgeous cafes, or grab a smoothie on the go. The Rocks Market is every Sat/Sun from 10am-5pm & the Foodie Market is every Friday 9am-3pm

Another option is  Surry Hills . Another gorgeous superb of Sydney, you could easily spend the day wandering the flower and pastel filled streets, stumbling across dreamy vintage stores, bakeries and breakfast spots.

See my guide to Surry Hills here.

Do you want coffee or brunch before you head out on your day trip from Sydney?  Here’s my coffee and brunch guide to Sydney.

After a super busy day exploring the city, you’ll probably want to relax this evening! You could…

• Watch the sunset from Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.

Walk past the Opera House and continue along the waterfront until you reach this point, where you will get a view like no other of the sun setting over the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

• Have a drink and food at the Opera Bar.

Located just beside the Opera House itself with incredible views over the landmark, grab your favourite cocktail or glass of bubbles and toast to the incredible adventure you are just beginning!

Short on time? Here’s a  3-day itinerary for Sydney.

Day 2 of your Sydney itinerary

After a day of city life, I think it’s time for a day out!

My favourite day trip in the area means going to the  Blue Mountains.

Grab a car, hop on a train or book a group excursion to the outer region of Sydney where this World Heritage-listed phenomenon lies. Partake in a bit of outdoor activity or simply grab lunch at one of the restaurants and take in the views.

To get inspired for your trip to the Blue Mountains, check out these blog posts:

• My self-guided trip to the Blue Mountains and Wentworth Falls
• The Coast Warrior Blue Mountain group tour with RatPack Travel 

If you book your  Coast Warrior Blue Mountain trip  through  Ratpack Travel , a discounted booking platform owned by my friend Sammy, using the code  MOLLIE10 , you can get 10% off this epic excursion! WMGT did this one and it was amazing!

Click here  to send RatPack a WhatsApp message ( +61 490 149 348 ) and start planning your trip today.

Other days out in and around Sydney…

• Taronga Zoo

The Zoo with a view! Head down to Circular Quay and hop on a 12 minute ferry to Taronga where you can view over 4,000 animals including Kangaroos & Koalas! Tickets start at $42.30 for an adult day pass, and can be purchased on the website  here .

• Hunter Valley

Vineyards, chocolate, a brewery, cheese, and wildlife, all in one day!  Check out my post about visiting the Hunter Valley here.

(although I’d save this for Day 4…!) Hop on a ferry from Circular Quay to this gorgeous beach-side superb in the northern region of Sydney.  See my complete guide to Manly here. 

Wanting to add some adventure to your Australian adventure?  Here’s my guide to skydiving in Australia!

• Road trip  (my favourite kind of trip!)

There are so many places you could go. For Sydney road trip inspiration, check out these blog posts:

• A day trip to Hyams Beach

• A road trip to the Stockton sand dunes

• Visiting the kangaroos in Morisset

Check out the best 20 day trips from Sydney in this post.

Either head back to Sydney after dinner, or if you fancy dinner or nightlife in Sydney, why not try dinner in Darling Harbour… such a beautiful dinner location on the waterfront.

P.s.  One of my favourite places to eat in Sydney is HOME , a Thai restaurant near Chinatown. Super reasonably priced and v.v. yummy!

Day 3 of your Sydney itinerary

A day to kick back and relax!

If you’re feeling particularly energetic and don’t want to waste a second oversleeping whilst in Sydney, use this morning to capture the morning light.

Sunrise is a great time to grab  those  classic Sydney pictures in gorgeous light with no photobombers… You can’t leave without those million-dollar selfies with the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and if you have time, Angel Place (a cute street filled with bird cages, which is a 10-minute walk from Circular Quay).

Check out how to improve your travel photography in this blog post!

I put today down as beach day, starting at Coogee Beach and then following the walk round to Bondi. (Because it wouldn’t be a complete trip to Sydney without a trip to Bondi, right?!). Make sure to stop off on your way round to jump in the ocean and take some beautiful pictures in the bays!

Check out the route from Coogee to Bondi in this blog post.

Once you make it around the final corner past the famous Bondi Icebergs, spend the afternoon cruising in Bondi. Play volleyball, dip in the ocean and if you’re a Poké fan… Be sure to grab a bowl at  Nudefish Poké  (so good).

If you fancy doing a different walk,  check out my post about walks around Sydney here. 

If you’re backpacking Australia solo and feeling a little apprehensive, here’s my guide to  solo travel in Australia!

Day 4 of your Sydney itinerary

Your last day! If you didn’t catch sunrise before, perhaps head out and catch it today.

Take the morning to explore the city a little more, visiting the places you haven’t had time to see yet and grabbing coffee or brunch.  See my favourite Sydney brunch spots here.

• the botanical gardens
• China Town (100% grab some famous custard puffs from  Emperors puffs )
• shopping in CBD
• Wander around Darling Harbour

For the afternoon, I’d recommend you take the ferry from Circular Quay over to Manly for the day ($9.20 AUD single trip)!

(Or, if you went on day 2, then head out on another day trip of your choice!).

On a backpacker budget? Here are  my top tips for saving money when you’re travelling in Australia!

SEE ALL MY BACKPACKING ADVENTURES ON MY BLOG HERE

Manly is my favourite place in Sydney by far, it has the laid back beach life of Byron Bay but has access to the city in 20 minutes via the fast ferry. Definitely somewhere I could live.

Be sure to head over to Shelley beach for a beach day and an awesome spot for snorkelling and hang around for sunset cocktails on the wharf. The PERFECT end to your trip.

See my full guide to Manly here where you’ll find all my recommendations. 

And before you know it… that’s four days in Sydney!

For more Sydney inspiration, check out the  25 best things to do in Sydney here!

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you been to Sydney?

What were your highlights? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

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Oh and you can sign up for my  exclusive  mailing list  here .

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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4 DAYS IN SYDNEY – OUR ITINERARY GUIDE

Sydney is with no doubts an unavoidable destination in any Australian travel itinerary. In our collective imagination places like the Opera House, the golden sandy beaches full of surfers, and the Harbour Bay are amongst the most symbolic in Australia. That’s why you need minimum 4 days to visit the capital of New South Wales , located in the southeast of Australia.

ALSO READ: How to reach the Blue Mountains by train from Sydney In this article we offer an itinerary of Sydney to follow on foot and using public transport. Let’s get to know the most iconic places in town!

HOW TO GET TO SYDNEY

For obvious logistical reasons, the vast majority of visitors arrives in Sydney by plane. You’ll be happy to know that Sydney Kingsford Smith airport is just 8 km from the city , and well connected. It takes 25 minutes by train, even less by car (traffic permitting). Whereas you won’t be happy to certify the price of an Opal Card , needed to use public transport across the city, which will set you back 35AU$ (25US$). Despite the airport being close-by, the ticket costs 19.80$ for a one way trip. Consider a taxi/Uber. For those who are already here in Australia and will reach Sydney travelling on-the-road like we did in the past , we suggest Lane Cove Caravan Park or Sheralee Tourist Caravan Park to spend the night in your van and easily explore Sydney by day. We didn’t get to Sydney straight on a helicopter, but we did take a memorable flight over the city. That’s how we managed to take photos like this one! More info about the helicopter flight here.

DAY 1 – SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE AND HARBOUR BRIDGE

If you too have been dreaming of Sydney for years, the first destination on your itinerary of Sydney will be the Opera House . The world famous building is wonderfully located on the waterfront within the bay, facing the other majestic monument, the Harbour Bridge . Hop off at Circular Quay station to get there. From here you can take several walks along the bay and enjoy the views from many angles. Not far from the Opera House you can chill out at the Sydney Royal Botanical Garden , the typically huge green area where native Australian plants are displayed. A nice panoramic point is Mrs Macquarie’s Chair . This is where we watched the well-known New Year’s Eve Fireworks from (video below). Next to Harbour Bridge is the neighbourhood of The Rocks , great for a cocktail or dinner by night. Check this popular tour to visit the Sydney Opera House from inside!

Visualizza questo post su Instagram Un post condiviso da Ambra&Edo│Travel Couple 🇮🇹 (@amilliontravels)

DAY 2 – BONDI, BRONTE & COOGEE BEACHES

After a first day of city landmarks, it’s time to hit the beach! Winters in Sydney (May to September) are mild and can be wet, but for the rest of the year it gets hot as soon as the sun is out. The most popular beach is Bondi Beach . It’s your classic postcard from Australia: a wide sandy beach spreading out for hundreds of square metres, exposed to open winds which create perfect waves for surfers. Come here to sunbathe and swim, have a picnic, and admire the surfers doing what they do best. We definitely recommend the Bondi to Bronte walk (2.5 km) and up to Coogee for the more fit among you (6 km). These locations feature amazing beaches and breathtaking cliff-side views. In order to reach Bondi Beach you can either take the bus from the city (30 minutes), or the train to Bondi Junction followed by bus n.333 to the beach. If you are in a group of three or four, you might be better off with taking a taxi/Uber. Warning : if you want to swim at Bondi Beach and any other beach, make sure you do so within the yellow-red flags which indicate the presence of life-savers. Riptides are very strong and areas outside the flags are for surfers only.

DAY 3 – FERRY TO MANLY AND DARLING HARBOUR

We talked earlier about the Opal Card for transports. The best days to use it are Saturdays and Sundays, since the daily cap is halved from 16.30$ to 8.15$. Besides the real perk is using ferries, which allow you to move quickly around the bay and to do some sightseeing at the same time. Therefore if you are in Sydney over the weekend, make sure to keep a full day to make the best of this opportunity to visit the following spots. Luna Park: the old Sydney Luna Park is one of the most loved places by kids and families. Plenty of fun and rides by the waterfront. The Luna Park is just one ferry stop away from Circular Quay. Kirribilli: quiet Kirribilli neighbourhood, home to the Australian Prime Minister, is opposite to the Opera House. It can be reached by ferry too, come here for a different perspective over the city. Manly Beach: if you want to see another beautiful beach in Sydney, the Manly Ferry will take you to the seaside area of the same name. The charming cross takes roughly half an hour, ferries are frequent. If instead you prefer quieter corners, head to Rose Bay or Watsons Bay , 20 minutes away. Darling Harbour: west of the CBD lies fascinating Darling Harbour, full of bars, restaurants and tourist attractions, including different museums, the aquarium and the observation wheel. Ideal to spend the evening, and it can be reached by sea too.

Want to earn with your photography skills? Smiler App is the first on-the-spot photography marketplace, which makes photographers and customers meet in tourist spots or points of interest as stadiums, museums, conferences. You can join Smiler for free at this link.

DAY 4 – ALTERNATIVE NEIGHBOURHOODS

We are almost at the end of our itinerary of Sydney . If you have half more day to spend in town before leaving, here’s some ideas to keep busy for a few hours. The city centre offers many galleries and shopping malls. The most famous ones are older Queen Victoria Building , and newer Tower Eye , with its revolving platform and restaurant at the top. As for most metropolis, Sydney too has its own Chinatown . It lies close the CBD, offering many food places, the night market, and the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Several museums in Sydney are free , among which the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Australian Museum, and the State Library of NSW. Also, they are easily reachable on foot and nearby the nice green areas at Hyde Park and the Botanical Garden. Last but not least we mention the cool neighbourhoods of Surry Hills , known for its quirky cafés and bars, and Newtown , where the music video “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay was recorded.

If you’re staying longer read our article How to reach the Blue Mountains by train from Sydney

Our 4-day itinerary of Sydney is complete! Don’t hesitate to write us in the comment section below if you have any questions. We wish you a great time in Sydney! READ ALSO: Cairns, Tropical North Queensland 5 of the best waterfalls in Tasmania, Australia

HOTEL – WHERE TO STAY IN SYDNEY

• You can book all your stays in Sydney and Australia with free cancellation   here.
• Best Western Plus Hotel Stellar : excellent value for money in the city centre of Sydney, close to Hyde Park.
• Metro Aspire Hotel Sydney: located in the neighbourhood of Ultimo, not far from Darling Harbour.
• Lane Cove Caravan Park : our favourite caravan park in Sydney, 20 minutes by train from the CBD, prices from 40AU$ (29US$) including all facilities.

HOW TO GET AROUND

• Car and campervan: as said it’s convenient to stay in a caravan park by night and head to the city everyday. If you’ll be travelling out of Sydney too, rent a car at the airport. Best car rental options in Australia here.
• Train and metro: you need to get a Opal Card at the airport to start using public transport, priced at 35AU$ (26US$). The fare from/to the airport is 19,80$, rides in town between 3-6$ with a maximum daily cap at 16,30$ (8,15$ weekends). The Opal Card is valid for buses and ferries too.
• Helicopter tours: 20-40 minute long flights over the city and the bays, starting from the airport. More info here.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Better safe than sorry. We recommend two options for you to compare. Get a quote with Worldnomads here , and get up to 20% off your travel insurance  with Heymondo here.

Disclaimer: this post contains links to products and services for which we may be compensated, at no additional cost for you. Thanks for your support that helps us keep our blog free and operating!

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4 days to connect with Sydney, Australia

Nov 15, 2022 • 11 min read

Friends hug in front of the Sydney Opera House © Isabella Moore/Lonely Planet

International visitors have missed Australia during the pandemic, and with travel returning down under, it’s also an opportunity to connect with the city in new ways.

From hosting one of the largest Pride celebrations in the world to its new Indigenous tours over the bridge, return to Sydney and see it from a new perspective.

We asked Sarah Reid to map out a way to reconnect with Sydney over four days. 

I called Sydney home for nearly a decade, and I still get a buzz every time the harbor comes into view through the plane window on my regular visits from upstate New South Wales . From its famous beaches to its fabulously diverse food scene, Sydney never fails to dazzle .  

Why you should visit Sydney

Few cities bring the wow factor quite like Sydney . But it’s not just the Harbor City’s golden beaches and architectural icons that make it special. One of the world’s most multicultural places, Sydney’s rich diversity shines in its vibrant arts and ever-evolving culinary scenes. Sydney is also a famously inclusive metropolis, geared for good times, all year round.  

Meet the icons 

Lace up your walking shoes and make your way to Circular Quay to savor your first glimpse of Sydney’s glittering harbor. Snap an obligatory selfie with the Sydney Harbour Bridge as a backdrop before taking a tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House ($28, 1 hour), which reopened its concert hall in 2022 following a major renovation designed to address long-standing acoustic and accessibility issues. Now with an elevator to whisk less-mobile visitors up to the dress circle, the reimagined concert hall also had its brush-box-timber wall panels replaced with acoustic diffusion panels constructed from the same Australian hardwood, creating a harmonious ripple effect throughout the venue. Expect a packed calendar of events to celebrate its 50th birthday in 2023.

Follow the waterfront pathway through the Royal Botanic Garden to Mrs Macquarie’s Point , where you can take a breather on a sandstone bench carved by convicts (Mrs Macquarie’s Chair) and enjoy one of Sydney’s best harbor views. Next, wander through the lush gardens toward the Art Gallery of NSW , home to a superb collection of Australian and international art. It adjoins the Sydney Modern – due to open in December 2022, the new gallery space is Sydney’s most significant cultural development in half a century. Like the Art Gallery of NSW, its general collection will be free to visit. 

Bondi-bound

Grab your swimwear, slip on a chic cover-up, and jump on a bus, train or taxi to another Sydney icon: Bondi Beach . Before you hit the waves, treat yourself to a smart regional Italian lunch with stellar beach views (and maybe some celebrity-spotting) at Icebergs Dining Room , a Sydney institution perched above Bondi’s famed ocean baths. Lola’s Level 1 and Sean’s also dish up sublime Mediterranean fare with sea views just steps from the sand. 

Spend an afternoon lazing on Sydney’s most popular beach, or stretch your legs alongside buffed locals on the 1.4-mile (2.3km) Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, which traces the dramatic sandstone sea cliffs linking the two beaches. If you’re feeling energetic, continue south along the coastal pathway for another 2 miles (3.2km) to Coogee Beach , where the Coogee Bay Hotel offers the perfect place to pause for a restorative passion-fruit spritz in the afternoon sunshine. 

Out on the town for dinner

If you’re bedding down in the City (Sydney’s central business district), kick off your evening with the best mezcal margarita in Sydney at hole-in-the-wall Cantina OK! (Latin American flavors have become increasingly popular in Sydney during the past decade) before moving onto dinner. Once slim on quality dining options beyond the classic fine-diners of Circular Quay (including the still-excellent Aria, Bennelong and Quay), the City is now home to some of Sydney’s best eats. For something new, head to 25 Martin Place (the revived former MLC Centre) for a handful of options including Middle Eastern–inspired Aalia, where the melt-in-your-mouth slow-roast lamb neck shawarma is a must-order. Or take your pick from the tantalizing offerings of Barangaroo , a former industrial port transformed into a buzzing multi-use precinct. We love Rekōdo, TV chef Matt Moran’s riff on a Japanese listening bar featuring modern Japanese shared plates. 

Sleep in the heart of the city in minimalist-chic style without breaking the bank at the Little National, which rises above Wynyard Station, or opt for art-deco glam at the recently opened Kimpton Margot Sydney, set within a magnificent heritage building, the former Sydney Water Board headquarters. Also new on the hotel scene is the W Sydney. Shaped like a giant glass ribbon, the Darling Harbour hotel, located within easy walking distance from the city center, is due to welcome its first guests in October 2023. 

Connect with Sydney’s cultural fabric

Grab a flat white to go from one of Sydney’s countless coffee bars (they’re all good – trust us) and see the city in a new light while scaling the Sydney Harbour Bridge with an Indigenous storyteller guide on BridgeClimb Sydney’s Burrawa Climb. As you ascend the 1332 steps to the summit of what locals call the “coathanger,” your guide will share fascinating insights into Sydney’s rich Aboriginal heritage. If you don’t have a head for heights, join Dreamtime Southern X for a walkabout around The Rocks. On this lively tour, your guide will enlighten you on how Sydney’s Traditional Custodians remain deeply connected to the landscape today, through stories, songs and even native bush tucker and medicinal plants that you might be surprised to find growing in Australia’s largest city.

Get another taste of multicultural Sydney by diving into its food scene . Channel Sydneysiders’ deep love for Asian flavors by tucking into pillows of joy at Mr Wong on Bridge Ln, which only serves dim sum at lunchtime. If you’re visiting on the last Sunday of the month, book ahead to feast on Sri Lankan crab curry at Lankan Filling Station in inner-east Darlinghurst . Or pop over to the South Eveleigh precinct (a short walk from Redfern Station) at 11am to beat the queue for a table at the newest restaurant from Australian chef Kylie Kwong, Lucky Kwong, where light and fresh homestyle dishes reflecting the chef’s Cantonese heritage feed the soul as well as the belly. 

Wander over to the recently renovated Australian Museum , opposite Hyde Park , to learn more about the Aboriginal story of Sydney and beyond via its superb First Nations exhibitions, designed in collaboration with First Nations peoples and communities to ensure the objects held in the collection are interpreted appropriately. Free to visit, the museum also has an excellent natural sciences collection featuring everything from Australian dinosaur skeletons to specimens of the nation’s deadliest spiders. 

A Priscilla -style party, or a quiet glass of wine

Shimmy into something sparkly for an oh-so-Sydney night out at the Imperial in inner-west Erskineville, just a short walk from the train station. Immortalized in the legendary 1994 film The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert , the historic pub hosts the city’s best Drag N Dine experience at its restaurant Priscillas, with drag artists bringing buckets of sass to the stage from Wednesdays to Sundays. On Friday and Saturday nights, anything goes (and usually does) at the Imperial’s underground Basement nightclub.

Back in the city, the 2021 relaxation of Sydney’s lockout laws (which saw inner-city nightspots refuse entry after 1:30am in an effort to curb alcohol-related disorder) has breathed new life into the Oxford St LGBTQI+ precinct. Party on at the likes of the Colombian Hotel, Ching-a-Lings, or the Burdekin. Not your scene? Take a seat at the handful of tucked-away, European-style wine bars in Sydney’s Inner East (try Dear Sainte Eloise in Potts Point). Or catch a performance by renowned Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance company Bangarra , or a show at one of Sydney’s many theaters (you can’t go wrong at the renowned Sydney Theatre Company ). 

Spend a day on the Northern Beaches

Sydney’s best sandy bits aren’t limited to the south side of the bridge. Jump on a ferry at Circular Quay for the achingly scenic 20-minute ride to Manly , one of the most famous stretches of sand on the Northern Beaches . Hit the waves at Manly Beach or follow the short oceanfront path around to Shelly Beach , a picture-perfect sheltered cove popular with families – and snorkelers.

Factor in a seafood lunch by the sea (try Manly Boathouse ), perhaps followed by a hike (45 minutes, or else catch the 161 bus) up to North Head, a great vantage point for watching humpback whales put on a show during their annual migration from May to November. If you’re not pressed for time, jump on the 199 bus for the one-hour ride along the coast to The Newport. Overlooking the gorgeous Pittwater tidal estuary, this sprawling venue packs out with locals on weekend afternoons, with multiple bars and dining options giving it a casual marketplace feel. If you’ve got your own wheels, take a spin to Palm Beach at the northern tip of the peninsula for a refreshing dip just steps from some of Sydney’s priciest real estate. The short but steep climb up the sandstone steps to the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse at the northern end of the beach is worth it for the sweeping coastal views.

Sundowners in Manly

The last ferry back to the city doesn’t leave until after midnight, allowing plenty of time for dinner and drinks in laid-back Manly. Start with sundowners at Wharf Bar , perched over the water just a short stumble from the ferry terminal. Or wander up Manly Corso to Manly Greenhouse, where a smart-casual restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu, cozy wine room and rooftop cocktail bar filled with lush plants are spread across three levels opposite the beach. Also on the beachfront is the historic Hotel Steyne (circa 1859), reimagined for 21st-century fun with a stylish whiskey bar and breezy rooftop terrace. 

Day 4: Get out of town, or seek out more Sydney gems

Sydney lies within day-tripping distance of two blockbuster New South Wales attractions: the Blue Mountains and the Hunter Valley , both easy add-ons to a Sydney visit. If you’d rather stay local, fuel up with a classic Sydney brunch before uncovering more of the city’s highlights. 

Blue Mountains

Just 90 minutes west of Sydney by car (or two hours by train), the eucalyptus-scented Blue Mountains are laced with some of Australia’s best bushwalking (hiking) trails; check the NSW National Parks website for the most-up-to-date trail information. Get your bearings in Katoomba , where the Echo Point lookout offers epic views toward the World Heritage Area’s famed Three Sisters rock formation. Historic Katoomba is also home to the bulk of the region’s restaurants and accommodations, should you want to extend your visit. And don’t forget to bring a sweater: at 3337ft (1017m) above sea level, it can get cool in the mountains, even in summer, 

Hunter Valley

Australia’s oldest wine region, the gentle rolling hills of the Hunter Valley lie just two hours north of Sydney. Sign up for a day tour, which typically includes four cellar-door visits and a winery lunch, or hire a car and take your pick of the region’s 150+ cellar doors.

Chardonnay is the star of the Hunter Valley, with other key varietals produced here including semillon, verdelho, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Some of the state’s best restaurants are also nestled in the area’s vineyards – book ahead for a meal to remember at the lauded Muse Restaurant (set in the grounds of the Hungerford Hill winery), where French techniques are married with superb local produce. 

Best bets for brunch

Melbourne-born chef Bill Granger put brunch – and avocado on toast – on the map at his first bills restaurant, opened in Sydney in 1993. You can now tuck into his famous ricotta hotcakes and silky scrambled eggs at four bills locations across the city. 

A coffee roastery, bakery, cafe and restaurant wrapped up in one delicious package, the Grounds of Alexandria in Sydney’s Inner West is another brunch favorite for locals. Its sister cafe, the Grounds of the City , is located in the city center. 

Explore an artistic legacy

Art lovers shouldn’t miss a visit to the former studio of the late Australian artist Brett Whiteley in Surry Hills (look for the signs on Devonshire and Bourke Sts), where many of his multi-million-dollar works were created. Then take a train to North Sydney to enjoy one of Sydney’s most delightful green spaces, Wendy’s Secret Garden . Created by Whiteley’s widow following Brett’s 1992 death, the serene green space sits at the foot of the couple’s Lavender Bay house, where Wendy still lives today. 

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The perfect Sydney itinerary for 4 days

• July 14, 2019
• 62 Comments

If you know me, you probably have a fair idea of my love for the countryside, mountains and lakes, and historical towns with medieval architecture. Big cities fail to impress me, modern architecture doesn't charm me and I am really past my age of partying late into the night. So when I decided to visit Australia, I was looking forward to exploring the remote places more than visiting Melbourne and Sydney and kept my expectations from these cities quite low. However, since I was travelling with my senior parents, who weren't too excited about hiking or beach-bumming like me, I promised that I would keep the last 4 days of our trip for one of the most acclaimed metropolises in the world - Sydney. I worked up a Sydney itinerary that was a good mix between covering all the famous sites, shopping and some nature walks (unlike most big cities, nature has been kind to Sydney!).

Here's what I appreciated the most about Sydney - it is not just about world-class retail and food outlets, swanky & chic buildings, a spectacular skyline and buzzing nightlife, it's also home to some of the most beautiful blue waters, stunning gardens and to my delight, breathtaking coastal walks that have managed to retain the 'natural' element in an otherwise highly commercialized city. What disappointed me was the weather (and I was unusually unlucky with it for I've heard a lot about its enviable climate); it was pouring all through the 4 days I was there, in the month of March. Luckily, we had booked a hotel in CBD (Central Business District) which wasn't too far from most places and having a car to drive around helped on the days we wanted to visit the beaches. However, I would recommend using public transportation while in Sydney unless you don't mind spending an exorbitant amount of money and time on parking.

Click here to book your car in Sydney.

The perfect 4-day Sydney Itinerary

Darling Harbour

Day 1: Sydney CBD: Chinatown, Paddy's Markets & Darling Harbour

Although it is ideal to find a hotel in the Central Business District (CBD), either near Darling Harbour or Circular Quay, it's likely that you may not be able to afford one and like me, would prefer to stay close to the central yet low budget area. Chinatown , located in Haymarket, in South CBD fits the requirements perfectly. If you're a fan of authentic Chinese food like me, then you'll be in foodie heaven in this place. This is also where you can buy some inexpensive Chinese goods, enjoy the colourful Oriental architecture and soak in the atmosphere. Dixon Street mall , a pedestrian street, is the heart of Chinatown and has some of the best places to eat as well as shop.

Hardly a 5-minute walk from there are the iconic Paddy's Markets . An indoor market for getting cheap bargains, Paddy's Markets have more than a thousand stalls selling souvenirs, offering massages to the tired feet, fresh local produce and food items, artistic knick-knacks, homewares and crafts.

Sydney Chinatown

If shopping for cheap novelties isn't your thing, then head to Darling Harbour . Hardly a 10-minute walk from Paddy's Markets, Darling Harbour is one of the most popular hang-out places in Sydney. Any Sydney itinerary would be incomplete without a visit to this waterfront entertainment venue, lined with boutique shops, restaurants, museums and several other tourist attractions to keep one busy. The Sydney skyline view from here is quite appealing and taking a sunset cruise is not uncommon. Or simply enjoy a stroll along the paved promenade, walk into the high-end shops to buy fashionable clothing and shoes, or visit one of the museums (Madame Tussauds, Australia National Maritime Museum, Sydney Sealife Aquarium). The precinct is buzzing at night and the perfect place to experience the quintessential Sydney life, with a cocktail in one of the rooftop bars or dining on the waterfront while enjoying the brilliantly lit night sky.

The secluded garden bar at the top floor of East Village Hotel is quite a find in the area!

Recommended budget hotel stay in Sydney: Capitol Square Hotel (Haymarket)

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Day 2: Taronga Zoo, Manly, Opera House & Circular Quay

On day 2 of your perfect 4-day Sydney itinerary, I would highly recommend taking the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly / Taronga Zoo for the best views of the Harbour Bridge as well as The Opera House.

If you're planning on visiting the Taronga Zoo , the ferry ride is hardly 12 minutes from Circular Quay and is following by a cable car ride from the ferry pier to the zoo, which is included in the price of the zoo's admission ticket. This is also a great idea because you will explore the zoo from the topmost point, walking downhill, allowing for the best vantage point views of Sydney's Harbour. The zoo is home to some of Australia's most exotic wildlife and if you haven't had the chance to see kangaroos, wallabies, dangerous reptiles and cute koalas anywhere else yet, then the zoo is a great place for animal encounters. You cannot  cuddle a Koala at Taronga Zoo though you can get up close to them under supervision. You can, however, play with a wallaby (there's no food available to feed them, unfortunately), watch the fur seals and sea lion show, and feed penguins and giraffes at an extra cost.

Another lively neighbourhood that should make it to your Sydney itinerary is Manly . You can either take a direct ferry from Circular Quay to Manly or one from Taronga Zoo. Located a bit far from the central district, Manly's beach is one of the best in Sydney, especially for the surfers. A laid back, holiday vibe is what'll greet you in Manly as soon as you alight from the ferry. Walk along The Corso , a pedestrian street with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, buzzing with live performers and street musicians.

Manly Beach

The golden-sand Manly Beach is a favourite of surfers and even has a surfing school located right next to it. If you're into scenic coastal views, then the 10-km Manly Scenic Walkway  might be of your interest. If that seems too long, then the short 2-km Cabbage Tree Bay Coastal Walk is the perfect easy coastal stroll that will take you through some breathtaking views of the blue waters of Manly.

Coastal Walk

In the evening, head back to Circular Quay by the ferry from Manly and you'll absolutely love the night views of the harbour. If you're lucky to be in the area on a weekend, The Rocks Markets at Circular Quay is a really cool one to explore. Unlike the cheap novelties of most street markets, this one features high-quality local fashion collection of clothes, trinkets, precious stones, gourmet food and handmade beauty products.

Sydney Opera House

Walk to The Cruise Bar  for a sundowner and spectacular sunset views of both The Harbour Bridge and The Opera House. Alternatively, you could also head up to The Pylon Lookout , situated on the Harbour Bridge, that offers vantage point view of The Opera House and the harbour. At a cost of $25, you can climb the 200 steps to the top viewing point of the bridge, walk through a museum which talks about the history of the construction of the bridge and be rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views of the city.

Thunder and lightning at Sydney Opera House

Circular Quay, Sydney

End your evening at one of the bars or restaurants in Circular Quay or watch a performance at The Opera House. Walk down the steps behind the Opera House to the harbour and meet Benny, the local friendly fur seal, or dine at one of the many restaurants with a view. The vibe at Circular Quay is one of the best in the city and the area is also known for its nightlife, and very often, fireworks too!

Circular Quay Dining

Tip: If you're adventurous, why not attempt the Harbour Bridge climb ? Although a little pricey, a journey to the summit of the Harbour Bridge, with harnesses and insane views, sounds totally up my alley, however, I couldn't do it because of the bad weather.

Visiting Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef ? Read about my experience.  

Bondi Beach

Day 3: Bondi Beach, Coogee Beach & Watsons Bay

I suggest starting day 3 of your perfect Sydney itinerary with a visit to Coogee Beach and moving up north towards Watsons Bay. Although there is no ferry to Coogee from CBD, you can either catch a bus that takes about 40 minutes or rent a car as it is fairly easy to find street parking outside Coogee Beach. Far less crowded than Bondi beach and lacking its glamour, Coogee beach is laid-back and equally pretty. A great place to swim or just soak up some sun, one of the most popular things to do in the area is the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk . Although this 6km long cliff walk offers stunning coastal views, it may not be everyone's cup of tea. However, a quick walk up the cliff right next to Coogee does the job too- crystal clear waters and the waves crashing on the rugged cliffs are worth taking this short route to the top.

Coogee Beach

Bondi to Coogee coastal walk views

If you're not doing the coastal walk, you could drive to Bondi Beach  from Coogee. Popularly known as the queen bee of all Sydney's beaches, Bondi is famous not only in Australia but all over the world. In my personal opinion, the only thing that was better in Bondi Beach as compared to Coogee and Manly Beaches for the atmosphere! Probably because it is the closest to CBD, the beach was crowded and lively.

What caught my eye the most, however, was the ocean pool at Bondi Icebergs . A very popularly Instagrammed place, the pool at Bondi Icebergs has been acclaimed as one of the most photographed pools in the world and rightly so! Open to visitors for a reasonable fee, one can either swim in the famous rock pools or simply enjoy a meal on the terrace that offers sweeping views of the beach, the sea and the spectacular mid-ocean pool.

Bondi Icebergs Pool

Not as popular as the Bondi Coogee Coastal Walk but equally picturesque is the walk from Bondi to Watsons Bay . The 7 km walk is yet another one of Sydney's glorious nature walks which left me in awe. Although I did not attempt the entire route, a drive to soak in the views from the famous viewpoint called The Gap left me speechless. A dramatic cliff point with a sheer drop to the ocean below, you have the unending Pacific views on one side and Sydney's striking skyline on the other. A simply unmatched and rewarding sight, The Gap is one of the most splendid places in the city for those who love impressive views.

The Gap at Watsons Bay

Here's how you can spend 3 Amazing Days in Australia's Gold Coast .

Day 4: Day trip to the Blue Mountains & Jenolan Caves OR Day trip to Hunter Valley Region

You could easily add another day to your Sydney itinerary but if you have only 4, then you'd have to make a choice between one of the day trips suggested here. Having spent 3 days exploring the city, it makes total sense to rent a car on Day 4 and head out to explore the outskirts of Sydney.

The Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves make for a very popular road trip from Sydney. If you do not plan to rent a car, you could either book a day trip through a tour agency or take a train from Sydney's Central station to Katoomba; the journey lasts 2 hours. Once you arrive at Katoomba station, you can take the HOHO bus from here to Scenic World,  just a 10-min ride away. Plan to spend about 2 hours here, as this is the most popular and spectacular place to visit in the Blue Mountains. Start with a ride on the scenic skyway that offers panoramic views of the valley over Katoomba falls and a fantastic view the famous Three Sisters as well. The glass bottom floor allows for a 360-degree view, bringing out the enormity of the valley below.

Three Sisters

You could return to the base of the scenic skyway and take the railway to the valley floor next. Sit right up in the front for the trip downwards if you're adventurous. You can then take the scenic cableway back up from the valley floor to the top station. From here, take the HOHO bus to the Echo Point,  another viewpoint that offers sweeping views of the valley, the mountains and the Three Sisters. From here, you can easily see why the mountains are called 'Blue Mountains'!

If you're also planning to visit Jenolan Caves as part of your 4-day perfect Sydney itinerary (which I highly recommend you do), it might be a better idea to rent a car or take a full day tour with an agency rather than the train from Sydney. Also, I would recommend leaving Sydney really early in the morning because this can be one long day for you. Jenolan Caves  are further up ahead of Echo Point, by about 1.5 hours. Make sure to check the tour timings for the caves and also book in advance, especially during weekends and peak season. The tour that takes you through the limestone formations, underground streams and a series of cave chambers, lasts for about 1.5 hours with a tour guide who explains how these formations came into being.

Jenolan Caves

If time allows, head to Blue Lake.  You could either take the walking track of 2.5 km from the caves to the lake or drive to it. I would highly recommend the scenic walk with beautiful views of the waterfalls, lake and the bridge.

Hunter Valley Region

If, like me, you're a wine enthusiast, then Hunter Valley might take precedence for you over visiting the Blue Mountains. I was, however, very unlucky with the weather and even though I had rented a car to drive to this famous Australian Wine Country, I could not make it due to the extremely harsh conditions, with the rains pouring down all day long. I read up about some of the best wineries for wine tasting, gourmet food and fantastic views, and came across a place called Bistro Molines , that I would've loved to visit, had I been able to make it to Hunter Valley.

For other itinerary suggestions, you can refer to this link

Read Why the Whitsunday Islands must be part of every Australia itinerary .

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The pool on Bondi Beach looks dope! Awesome article. I’m about to fly to Sydney next Thursday and this will help. Cheers! 🙂

Bong Junior

Wow Sydney! I really miss this place! Hoping and pray I can visit again.

Pingback: The Best Things to in Sydney with Kids - Thrifty Family Travels

Australia was my first international trip on my own and Sydney was my first stop. I have amazing memories, there couldn’t be a better place to travel for the first time. People were so helpful and there are so many great things to see and do. I wasn’t aware Sydney had such a great Chinatown and missed it, but I will catch it next time for sure

MEENAKSHI J

The vistas that you have captured are truly breathtaking. It is quite helpful the way you have laid out the itinerary. For a family traveller like me, this looks perfect. Has got a nice combination of leisure, soft adventure and wildlife thrown in. It is interesting how every metropolitan has a vibrant China bazar that give life to the mundane. Would love to have a glimpse of the exotic Australian wildlife. And, those Jenolan caves and the Bondi icebergs look splendid.

Wow, Sydney is so beautiful. It is a pity that the weather played a spoilsport when you visited there. You have given a great itinerary for Sydney with a mix of city, beaches and nature. Yes, I would love to climb the Harbours Bridge. I have heard that you get a great view from there. I loved the pictures of Bondi Beach and Watson’s bay. These 2 places will surely be on priority when I visit Sydney.

Medha Verma

I did find the experience (climbing Habour Bridge) sort of expensive. But it’s Australia and nothing really comes cheap there 🙂

Gorgeous photos! We are hoping to do an extended trip to Australia soon, so I loved reading your suggestions. I would love to visit each one of the beaches, but the Coogee coastal walk views especially caught my attention!

Mijia Eggers

On the way to NEw Zealand, we were unable to make a trip to Sydney. We have discovered that we could do a lot of things there and decided to spend more days there. This itinerary is a good reference for us.

Sydney has an added charm considering its combination of modern skylines, traditional markets, buzzing nightlife and tranquil beaches. Jenolan Caves and Blue Lake sound like my kind of places. I would also love to check out the Paddy’s Markets – sounds like a charming place to eat and shop. Sorry to hear that the weather wasn’t in your favour. But I’m glad you still enjoyed your trip to the fullest.

I’m planning to visit Australia by the end of the next year and your guide is so handy for Sydney itinerary. Which other cities would you suggest for a 12 days trip to Australia?

Hi Ana, you could do Melbourne, Gold Coast and Whitsundays Islands or Cairns for Great Barrier Reef. I have written about them all on my blog, feel free to have a read 🙂

Ambica Gulati

Like you, I am a nature walk and explore at ease person. So, this is quite a good post for it’s not one of those random list on the bars and the nightlife. I would love to hike up Harbour Bridge for the views, but need to get fitter for that. Jenolan Caves and Bondi Iceberg pools are now on my bucket list. The pictures really make this a super place to visit.

Happy to hear that Ambica x

I also prefer outdoors than cities but Sydney is a beautiful place. As someone that visited Sydney on several occasions, this sounds like the perfect itinerary. It sums up the best the city has to offer, it has the right amount of activities and anything more would make the itinerary too packed.

Thanks Daniel, I’m glad you think so x

wow , this is perfect. I was actually looking for a Sydney itinerary and this looks perfect according to me. Thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge. This actually saves a lot of time for people like me.

blair villanueva

I haven’t been to Australia, and I am excited to visit it (yup Sydney first!) this coming December for the holiday season. Perfect timing, I will save your recommendations.

I lived 2 months in Sydney and I haven’t been to half of the places to mention in this itinerary. I guess I mostly spent time in the city and Manly beach… I would have needed it at the time! The good news is that I am going back there soon and I just bookmarked this post. Your itinerary is so complete and 4 days is exactly what you need in Sydney if you are passing by. Thank you so much for your insights!!!

It often happens that we do not end up exploring the city that we live in, as a tourist would! Good to hear that you’re going back soon, gives you another opportunity to visit the places you missed while you were there. Have fun!

I agree that lesser-known areas of Australia are so amazing, but I’m glad you found some awesome things to do in Sydney as well! I loved Sydney and you are right — it definitely has more nature aspects than most cities. I really enjoyed walking from the Opera House to the botanical gardens, they are so beautiful. Manly Beach was another highlight and I was lucky to get to do a day trip to the Blue Mountains and see the Three Sisters too. I wish I had been able to go see The Gap — it looks incredible. I will have to put it on my list for next time, thank you!

I’m sure there are several other beautiful viewpoints and nature walks that I didn’t even have the time to do! It seemed to me that I could’ve spent a few more days in Sydney, easily!

Similar to you, I love when big cities have nature components too and aren’t all about skyscrapers and bright lights. Day 3 at the beach stood out to me the most, though having never been to Sydney, I’d love to go and experience it all. I love the pools at Bondi beach – they’re a pleasure just to look at, I can only imagine how fun it would be to experience it in person.

Aleksandr Popkov

hmm. somehow, I am the most intrigued by the china town and the paddy’s market. They seem to be the places, where you really can feel the culture. Opera and things are cool, but I am kinda tired of architecture… get to see it everywhere I go.

We all have our own likes and dislikes 😉 Paddy’s Markets were quite cool, I ended up buying a lot of tidbits 🙂

This is such a detailed itinerary for Sydney, and perfect for someone like me who’s yet to visit. I love the look of all the beaches, but I must say that Bondi looks wonderful. And though I’m not a fan of the Instagrammable places, I can see why the Icebergs pool is popular. The Gap is equally stunning to me, and I can picture myself there taking in all the scenery. I really hope to visit one day soon!

I love visiting places that I’ve previously seen on Instagram and really liked. Bondi Icebergs was not a disappointment at all! The Gap certainly had unparalleled coastal views.

This Sydney itinerary is fantastic Medha, just the perfect balance between traditional sites and escapes in the nature! Bondi Beach looks stunning and The Gap viewpoint is just spectacular. I’ve also heard that Scenic World, is pretty cool but I’m not sure that I could handle the glass floor in the skyway…so scary!

If you’re scared of heights then it probably isn’t the best idea 😉

What an awesome trip you had. I’ve been trying to talk the bf into a trip here for ages. Australia is such a beautiful country and Sydney just looks incredible. I’d love the chance to make it through this itinerary!

Annick Lenoir-Peek

I’m planning a three day stay in Sydney early next year and this itinerary really helps with planning. I’ve visited a long time ago and look forward to seeing the Opera House and visiting the harbor. I saw Bondi Beach from a distance last time but want to see the famous pool. All in all great suggestions for how to get from place to place too.

That’s awesome Annick, visiting a cit for the second time allows you to go to places you couldn’t go the first time. Have fun x

Christopher Mitchell

I sure wish I had this post at my disposal before I went to Sydney for the first time! Great stuff.

Eric Gamble

I guess if you only have 4 days that this is the perfect Sydney Itinerary for 4 days. But man o man, with all there is to do in and around Sydney, I feel that you would easily need a month. In Day 1 all those markets would be right up my alley! The Paddy’s Markets sounds like a blast exploring. What a cool way to learn about the local foods, crafts, and overall culture then an outdoor market. With Day 2 those bays with the views are perfect. Obviously the Sydney Opera house is iconic. However, the Zoo though cool sounding would bum me out if I cant really hold or touch a koala. As for Day 3…you had me at beach. The more I read about Australia and the beaches near Sydney…the more I want to explore Bondi & Watson’s Bay. For Day 4..the hiker in me would be super excited to explore all the different mountains and cliffs. The more I think about Sydney and the surrounding areas the more it reminds me of San Diego, here in the United States. Yeah I may need a perfect Sydney Itinerary for 4 years!

Haha, I’m sure you can spend a lot more than 4 days there easily. Unfortunately, I never have more than 4-5 days in a city and have to make the most of it.

Adrenaline Romance

Manly Beach seems so manly! LOL! 😀 Bondi Beach seems to be perfect for surfing; are the waves always that big and strong?

My childhood friend Levi lived in Sydney for most of his adult life until he decided to go back to the Philippines to live here for good. He said Sydney is a beautiful city, and it shows in your photos.

Sydney always struck me as a big city and for some reason, I only thought of it as a point of disembarkation. However, the number of day trips from here make it interesting. Like the Caves – I think they look really fascinating. And of course, the epic Great Ocean Road road trip includes the city. Your post added some more stops to my itinerary for Sydney.

Alysa Tarrant

Australia has long been on my list, especially after binge watching Dance Academy! This is such a great itinerary to start with. What other parts of Australia would you recommend?

The Great Ocean Road drive from Melbourne is quite iconic. Great Barrier Reef is a must visit and Whitsunday Islands are incredible. Gold Coast is a lot of fun too 😉

Can I do all the things? Absolutely everything sounds fantastic but I think I am most intrigued by Paddy’s Markets and the glass bottom skyway. It does seem like an expensive (once in a life time) trip, but it’s going on the bucket list!

My itineraries are usually activity-packed, I end up covering a lot in a day, even though sometimes it may seem like a rush. I wish I had another day though, to make it to Hunter Valley 🙂

I have been to Sydney and lived for couple of months so can’t comment that these many things can be done in 4 days. As I took some time and did all these places at my leisure. For me Bondi beach was over crowded and so could not admired its beauty because I came here during the peak summer time. Though I liked Toronga zoo and Darling Harbor a lot.

How was it to live there? It’s usually like that – when you know you’re going to be in a place for a while, you tend not to rush and take your own sweet time in exploring the place.

This really does seem like the perfect Sydney itinerary! I’ve always wanted to go and thought that I wanted to fit too many things into my stay, but this proves it can be done. Bondi and Coogee beaches are on my bucket list! Such a beautiful place.

While I do appreciate nature and beautiful countryside, I am more of a city girl so I have always wanted to go to Sydney. I do love cities on the water and it looks like Sydney would be a perfect city for me. You shared so many greats ideas of what there is to do. The Coogee to Bondi coastal walk looks really nice. The harbor bridge climb sounds right up my alley too!

Mijua Eggers

I like that Bondi beach because the pool is so close to the sea. The Jenilan Caves are also interesting. I like to see caves around the world. Thanks for the tips.

The pool at Bondi Icebergs is pretty awesome!

I visited Sydney a couple of years back and not too sure why, but I didn’t quite enjoy it. Seeing your post makes me want to visit the city again to discover all the places I’ve missed out or didn’t quite get to explore. The coastal walks especially! Can’t believe I didn’t visit Manly beach or spent more time at Bondi to do the coastal walks.

For me, the coastal walks were the highlight! I preferred them over the happening city centre or the harbour.

Shreya Saha

The crystal water of the bay and the coastal area are really beautiful. It’s not about the skyscrapers, now I know, Sydney is more about the beautiful beaches. I am not surprised seeing the Chinatown there also, it’s almost everywhere. However, I loved the Bondi Beach and Watson’s Bay the most.

Haha, yes, there’s a Chinatown everywhere 😉

Iuliana Marchian

I have a friend who lives in Sydney and keeps inviting me to go there. I usually like to stay in a big city for at least a week so that I have time to explore all its parts at a slow pace. Your 4-day itinerary seems perfect for my travelling style and the China Town reminds me of course of bustling Bangkok.

There’s nothing better than knowing a local when you travel, they usually take you to the hidden gems! You must make it to Sydney soon x

This looks like a perfect itinerary for 4 days in Sydney. It has a little bit of everything, which is what I would do too if I ever make it there. Those beaches look absolutely stunning, but my main desire is to see an opera at the Sydney Opera House.

Wow Sydney looks beautiful! I’d love to go and see the Sydney Opera House, the caves also look gorgeous 🙂

I will be in Perth in October and would love to try make a stop in Sydney too! The Gap at Watson’s Bay looks like an incredible view. I love getting out of the city and into nature so this guide is perfect! Would love to do the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk – that scenery must be amazing!

That coastal walk is definitely worth going for!

I also prefer getting away from the cities and exploring nature off the beaten path and I did my fair share of that in Australia. However, I also love Sydney- it’s an amazing city! And I have to say, you did a great job with this 4-day itinerary. I’m impressed you cover the city’s main highlights in such a short time period.

Great and informative post!! your photos are STUNNING. The Bondi Beach looks amazing.

Nicole Hunter

I am exactly like you. I’m going to Australia in March and I don’t really want to go to cities. I want to go to more remote and authentic places to experience natural beauty and such. However, I’m glad that you were happy with your time in Sydney. I’ll have to rethink my approach to our holiday.

Do make it to Byron Bay, Great Barrier Reef and Great Ocean Road, the three highlights of my trip. Also, Whitsunday Islands ?

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The Perfect 4-Day Sydney Itinerary for 2024

Are you planning to visit Sydney? Are you wondering how much you can see in 4 days in Sydney? Ideally, 7 days are perfect to see Sydney without rushing it, but, with our 4-day Sydney itinerary, you will be able to see the major highlights of our stunning harbour city. We are so passionate about our home town and we know you will be as well.

In our 4 days 3 nights Sydney itinerary, we will cover the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, a visit to Manly on the Manly Ferry, wandering the historical Rocks area, Darling Harbour, Bondi Beach and Taronga Park Zoo. These are the most popular hot spots that all visitors dream of when travelling to Sydney.

You can use our Sydney Australia itinerary for as little as a day or up to a week depending on how much time you have.

You can now download our article on GPSMyCity. How it works:  Download the app “GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities” from the iTunes App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. Each walk comes with a detailed tour map as well as photos and background information for the featured attractions. The app’s navigation functions guide you from one attraction to the next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when travelling abroad.

If you are visiting between the months of May and November why not consider a Sydney Whale Watching Cruise?

This post may contain affiliate links.  Please see our disclosure for more information.

Table of Contents

How To Get From Sydney Airport to Sydney CBD

Sydney Airport is just 8 km from the Sydney CBD. Flights are available to Sydney from all over the country and many regional centres. Sydney is the top destination for international travellers and flights are available to Sydney from all corners of the world.

Public transport is a cheap and efficient way to travel around Sydney, so you won’t need to hire a car.

From either the Sydney Domestic or International Terminal you can catch the Airport Link and be in the city within 13 minutes. You can purchase an Opal Card at the Airport. You can use the Opal Card on trains, buses, light rail and ferries. You will have to put $20 on the card when you first purchase it and $10 for children. On the Airport Link, you can also use Visa, Mastercard or American Express card to tap on and tap off.

Current prices as of July 2022 for the Airport Link are:

Adults Off Peak $18.39

Children Off peak $15.41 (children are from 4 – 16 years of age, children under 4 travel free)

Adults Peak $19.53

Children Peak $15.98

Taxis and Uber are available from the Airport.

Car rental is available from both terminals but if you are staying within the city limits it is not necessary. Parking is expensive in the city.

Travelling Within the Sydney CBD

Sydney is easy to discover by foot. The new Light Rail has made travel even easier for visitors.

If you want to get a feel for Sydney before you start exploring on foot or by public transport consider using the Hop on Hop off Bus especially if you want to visit Bondi Beach.

Inclusions, when you purchase the Hop on Hop off bus:

• 2 hop-on and hop-off routes around Sydney
• 1-day validity or 2-day validity (depending on the option chosen)
• Sydney Harbour cruise (included in the Deluxe ticket)
• Digital commentary in a choice of 8 languages
• WiFi on board

Day 1 of Your Sydney Itinerary

If you are staying in the Rocks area and you are on a budget we can recommend the best budget accommodation with the best view in Sydney staying at the YHA Sydney Harbour . Not only do they have dorm rooms but you can stay in a double room with ensuite, just as we did. You must check out their archaeological site at the entrance and their rooftop for panoramic views.

If you want to be close to Darling Harbour we can recommend the Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour with its rooftop bar and swimming pool with great views over the city. As you can see we love roof top bars and views, especially in Sydney with its harbour and iconic bridge.

Either accommodation or location mentioned will have you staying in the heart of the city and perfect for Sydney sightseeing.

If you are on a tight budget but still want to visit Australia there are some options to get free or cheaper accommodation . One of those options includes house sitting and there are 100s of assignments available now.

Every visitor wants to head down to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge on their first day. If you have time you can book a Sydney Opera House Guided Tour which includes the Entrance Ticket.

The tour lasts an hour and includes:

• Step beneath the sails and discover what makes the Sydney Opera House so inspiring
• Explore the building with passionate and knowledgeable guides
• Step inside iconic theatres and foyers
• Capture photographs from rare vantage points, off limits to the general public
• Uncover insider secrets and stories

Good to know : The Opera Bar is open from 11 am and is the perfect venue for a meal or a cocktail or two with its backdrop of Sydney Harbour. It is our favourite venue to bring family and friends when they visit Sydney.

Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens

The Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens were created in 1816. They are a beautiful part of the city and many visitors and locals come to relax and enjoy their beauty. They are a popular spot to enjoy the fireworks at New Years Eve. There are 30 hectares to enjoy and can take you up to 2.5 hours to explore. There are places to eat and enjoy the ambience of the gardens.

The gardens are open from 7 am daily but during the year they close at various times. You can check on their website here .

There are local tours available:

Aboriginal Heritage Tour

Free guided walk

Bespoke heritage tours

All can be booked online .

The Rocks area of Sydney is where the first settlers arrived back in 1788. We enjoy coming to the Rocks area in the afternoon and wandering through the lanes before heading to a local pub for dinner and drinks. You can also visit the Rocks Discovery Museum or the Museum of Contemporary Art . Entrance is free to both museums.

Rocks Walking Tour

To learn more about the Rocks area a walking tour is the way to go. There are two available that we recommend:

The Rocks 90-Minute Walking Tour:

• Take a walk off the beaten track through hidden alleyways, along cobbled lanes and into shady courtyards
• Enjoy spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge across sparkling Sydney Cove
• Hear stories of triumph over tragedy and be introduced to characters from the early convict settlement era

Check availability here

2.5 Hour Sydney Rocks Area – History and Convicts Walking Tour

Embark on a journey through time and space to discover the secrets of Sydney’s convict colony in the Rocks. Wind through cobblestone alleyways once home to Sydney’s most notorious rum dealers and street gangs. Discover the inner workings of heritage buildings and the unknown stories behind important sculptures, maps, models and relics. Check Explore unique sandstone structures, hidden ruins and the story of the infamous convict architect

If you are visiting on a weekend The Rocks Market is held every weekend from 10 am to 5 pm at George Street and Playfair Street. In December before Xmas Day they are also open on Friday evenings from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Some of our favourite places to eat and drink at the Rocks are:

The Glenmore Hotel – 96 Cumberland Street The Rocks. Travel tip : book the corner table in the Roof Top Bar for the best views of Sydney

The Australian Heritage Hotel – one of Sydney’s oldest pub located at 100 Cumberland Street The Rocks

The Endeavour Tap Rooms – brewery bar and restaurant located at 39/43 Argyle Street The Rocks

The Doss House – the heritage underground bar specialising in whiskey

Caminetto Italian Restaurant – great Italian food for breakfast lunch and dinner

Sydney Harbour Bridge

You can walk across the bridge to North Sydney. The access point is from the Bridge Stairs and it takes 20 minutes each way. The Bridge Stairs are located between the Glenmore Hotel and The Rocks YHA Sydney Harbour. This is a free activity.

The path takes you on the eastern side of the bridge so you will have great photo opportunities of the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay.

Day 2 of Your Itinerary for Sydney

Are you an early riser?

How about a Sunrise Kayak paddle?

What to Expect: 

• Breakie and coffee credit of $20 provided by the local Flying Bear café after the tour!  (https://www.birdandbear.com.au/flying-bear ) 
• A fun-filled, friendly, and safe kayak session in Sydney Harbour, led by qualified guides
• A smaller group than most kayak companies in Sydney, with a maximum of 12 paddlers per experience
• Photo opportunities with iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge
• Safety briefing and equipment customisation at the beginning of your session
• Photos dropped via email by the end of the day

If you are not an early riser:

After a good breakfast at your hotel it is time to head to Circular Quay to take the ferry to Taronga Zoo. With the ferry ticket you can depart from Circular Quay and then in the afternoon return to Darling Harbour. The ticket includes entrance to Taronga Zoo and the Sky Safari Cable Car.

The Zoo is open daily from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm. I would suggest allowing 3 hours to visit the Zoo but you may spend longer as there are several shows at different timings throughout the day.

Good to know : A great photo opportunity at Taronga Zoo is the Giraffe Enclosure with its magnificent views across Sydney Harbour.

Travel tip: Take the Sky Safari Cable Car to the top on arrival at the Ferry Wharf. Then wander downhill visiting all the exhibitions and shows. It is an uphill walk from the ferry terminal if you don’t take the Sky Safari.

Day 2 – Afternoon

After visiting Taronga Zoo catch the ferry to Darling Harbour.

Apart from the many restaurants and bars available around Darling Harbour there are some major attractions as well.

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium – Book ahead here and reserve your entrance tickets

• Visit one of the world’s most spectacular aquariums with over 12,000 animals from 650 different species
• Key creature attractions at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium include Sharks, Dugongs, Platypus, Sting-rays, Penguins and Seahorses
• Take advantage of the aquarium’s prime location in heart of Sydney at Darling Harbour
• Walk underwater at Sydney’s world-class Aquarium

Good to know:

You can save money by purchasing a Sydney 4 Attractions Pass:

Single entry to 4 Sydney Attractions, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower Eye and Madame Tussauds Sydney.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

• SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is located on the city side of Darling Harbour, right in the heart of Sydney

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

• WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is located on the city side of Darling Harbour, right in the heart of Sydney

Sydney Tower EYE

• Sydney Tower EYE is located in the Westfield Shopping Centre, at the corner of Pitt St & Market St, right in the heart of the Sydney CBD

Madame Tussauds Sydney

• Madame Tussauds is located on the city side of Darling Harbour, right in the heart of Sydney

How about a Sunset Kayak Experience on Sydney Harbour

Enjoy the brisk evening air as you paddle through Sydney Harbour, watching the sun set and the skyline light up.

Some of our favourite places to eat in and around Darling Harbour are:

Nicks Seafood Restaurant – for the best seafood in Sydney. They are located at The Promenade Cockle Bay Wharf. To get the best tables we recommend booking in advance.

Cyren Bar Grill Seafood – Harbourside Darling Harbour. Great for happy hour, views and casual dining.

Planar Restaurant – Ground Floor of the International Convention Centre – casual dining

Fireworks Darling Harbour

If you are visiting on a Saturday night there are fireworks from 9 pm.

Day 3 – Sydney itinerary visiting Bondi Beach

Take a Brunch Paddle on Sydney Harbour before heading to Bondi Beach

• Photos dropped by the end of the day
• $20 brekkie credit at the local Flying Bear Cafe nearby 

It is now time to hit Sydney’s famous beach – Bondi Beach.

How to get to Bondi Beach :

By bus : You can catch Bus 3333 from Circular Quay to Bondi Beach which takes 45 minutes and departs from Stand B

By Metro : There is no direct train to Bondi Beach. You will need to catch a train from Central, Town Hall, Martin Place, Kings Cross, Edgecliff and Bondi Junction. The train ride takes 11 minutes from Town Hall to Bondi Junction. Then change into a 380, 381, 382 or 333 bus for a 15 minute ride to the beach.

Uber/Taxi : You can arrange for a Uber or taxi if there are 3 – 4 travelling together.

Things to do in Bondi

Bondi is famous for its surfing beach. You can take surfing lessons from the best at Bondi Beach whether you are a beginner or intermediate. You will be taught surfing basics in a group of 5 students or less–a great way to increase your surf knowledge, technique, and confidence.

Take a Walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte or Coogee

Popular with everyone and all ages is this scenic beach and cliffside walk. You can choose to walk to Bronte which is 2.5 km or further on to Coogee 6 km. You should be able to complete the 6 km in 2 to 3 hours depending on how many times to stop for those perfect Instagram shots or if you decide to enjoy brunch along the way. Along the way you can visit Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly Beach and Coogee. Along the walk you can see aboriginal carvings that date back 200 years – for more information click here .

If you happen to visit in the Spring look out for the Sculptures by the Sea which is located on the walk between Bondi and Tamarama.

As you know we love our rooftop bars, so, if you make it to Coogee head to the roof top bar of the Coogee Pavillion .

Address : 169 Dolphin Street Coogee

Bondi Beach has such an arrange of places to eat and drink you will be spolit for choice.

Day 4 – Visit Manly on the Northern beaches

One of the top scenic journeys on Sydney Harbour is the ferry ride from Circular Quay past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House to the northern beaches town of Manly .

There are two types of ferries available – the Manly Fast Ferry which takes approximately 18 minutes and the Manly Ferry which takes around 30 minutes. The Manly Ferry is an icon and we recommend that you make at least one journey on your visit on this old girl of the harbour.

Manly is famous for its beaches, restaurants and the scenic walk from Manly Beach to Shelly Beach.

As you arrive at Manly Wharf there are some premier eating establishments – Manly Wharf Bar and Hugos .

If you make it to Shelly Beach enjoy brunch or lunch at the Boathouse .

Take a Snorkelling Tour

• Snorkel in the protected Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve
• Try to identify more than 200 fish species, invertebrates and algae
• Learn about the coastal culture of Manly from your local guide
• Search for endangered species, such as Blue Groper in their natural habitat

For more information and availability click here

Manly Beach Cycle Tour and Sunset Cruise

• Experience this memorable Sightseeing tour of Sydney Harbour and Manly Beach by bicycle and ferry
• Relax and take in the scenery as you cruise out to the famous Manly Beach
• Enjoy learning about the city and its surrounds with our knowledgeable and friendly tour guide
• Marvel at stunning views from the world-famous Manly beach, and experience coastal cliffs with city skyline views

Northern Beaches Brewery Tour and Tasting

• Visit 3 great breweries in Sydney’s northern suburbs
• Have an amazing lunch
• Enjoy transport in our air-conditioned buses

Manly Weekend Markets

Just 100m from Manly Beach Manly Weekend Markets are open from 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. They have a great range of unique arts and crafts.

Visit the Q Station

On Manly’s North Head is the Q station. Once a quarantine station it now has accommodation, a restaurant, a cafe, a museum, its own beach and day and night tours. We recently spent a night staying at the Q Station. You can read our review of our accommodation, our history tour and dinner at the Boilerhouse here.

We hope you have enjoyed our sample itinerary for Sydney. As you can see there is so much to do and see in Sydney in 4 days. Let us know your favourite activities in Sydney when you visit.

Are you on Pinterest? We are at Staycation Australia .  Why not follow us and save to your own board for your next travel inspiration?

You may enjoy these articles for getaways from Sydney:

Blue Mountains Travel Guide

Wollongong Travel Guide

Jervis Bay Travel Guide

Southern Highlands Getaway

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Sydney Harbour, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW

4 days in Sydney

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Beginning in the heart of the city, this four-day itinerary will guide you around Sydney to uncover secret beaches, culinary delights and spectacular vistas.

By Amy Fraser

The must-do experiences

• Catch the sunrise from the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Wander past pristine beaches on the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk  
• Meet adorable koalas at Taronga Zoo

Day 1: Sydney Harbour

Begin your getaway with the very best Sydney views at the iconic Sydney Harbour . Take your pick from a range of cultural and culinary activities.

The best hotels in Sydney

Whether you want to stay in a converted brewery, a luxury hotel on the harbour or an edgy loft-style room above one of the city's most popular nightspots, Sydney has a huge range of top-quality hotels.

Read time • 8min

Day 2: Bondi to Coogee Beach

Pack your swimmers for a day at the beautiful Bondi Beach . This coastal suburb is bursting with incredible experiences.

Guide to Bondi

This iconic beachside neighbourhood in Sydney’s east is a dynamic pocket of sun and sand, with a bustling social scene and top-notch restaurants and cafés.

Read time • 4min

Day 3: Mosman and Manly

Venture over the Harbour Bridge today to explore Manly’s laid-back beaches and Mosman’s wildlife wonders. Here’s what you can do north of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Day 4 : Sydney’s Inner West

On your last day, explore Sydney’s vibrant Inner West, best known for its trendy food and drink scene.

Explore more nearby

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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The Perfect 4 Day Sydney Itinerary

Sydney, Australia

My best friend, Rachal, and I decided to take a trip down to Australia and New Zealand, but only had two weeks of vacation to explore  (which probably wasn’t the best idea).   With the time restraint, we decided that our time in Australia would be spent only in and around Sydney instead of trying to spread ourselves too thin across the country.  Quite an activity packed 4-day trip!

Here is our basic 4 day Sydney itinerary.  For detailed events and even more pictures of each day, just click on the title!

Arrival – Sydney Tower Eye – Darling Harbour – Badu Gili

A long day of travel landed us in Sydney, Australia around 0900 which meant we HAD to explore and use our first day wisely.  It started with meandering around Chinatown and getting a bite to eat before checking in to our Airbnb.  Once we got settled in and met our furry friend, we set out to use our iVenture Pass (which is totally worth it to see all the touristy things).

First up, the Sydney Tower Eye where we got to go up the tower and take a look over the entirety of downtown Sydney.  I even spotted a huge Sheppard Fairey mural (which I made Rachal hunt with me for when we got back to street level)!  Later, we headed to Darling Harbour where we got Italian food from Crinitis.  We decided to spend the rest of the evening wandering around the harbor and waiting for Badu Gili.  What we didn’t realize, was that we were waiting in the wrong area, but we made it to the last show thank goodness!  Just had to walk around to the entrance by the park.  That was a nice conclusion to our first day.

Sydney BridgeClimb – Opera House Tour – Tattoos

Our main event (and the reason we woke up hella early) on day two was the Sydney BridgeClimb.  Even though it costs a ton of money and we didn’t even get the whole experience (read more about this here ), it’s pretty cool to see the Opera House, the harbor, and downtown Sydney from that height.  After the climb, we found the historical Hero of Waterloo Hotel and Bar.  We had some pretty good food here, and Rachal continued her tradition of having a “celebratory beer.”  There is a museum nestled in a tower on the bridge with an amazing view, and definitely way cheaper.

Back to the harbor we went, joining an official Opera House tour (another item included in our iVenture Pass).  It was quite informative and definitely cool to see all the tiles and such up close.  Especially interesting was learning about its construction turning an entire sphere into the “sails” we see today.  Since we didn’t have any more large plans for the day, we decided to find a tattoo parlour.  We came across the incredible building that houses Little Tokyo, but without an appointment we had to search for other options.  The chick that helped us there referred us to Max’s Village Tattoo.  This is where we ended up getting our tattoos and was in a great place for food nearby afterwards!

Bondi Beach – Infiniti Pools – More Beaches – Luna Park

Today was all about the beaches!  Rachal and I took a ride out to Bondi, had amazing breakfast looking at the water, and then took a lovely walk on the sand admiring the artwork on the walls.  After meandering about, we started hiking towards Coogee Beach.  The views from the cliffs were absolutely incredible and we found a practically unoccupied infinity pool at Bronte Beach!  We got in and definitely got attacked by waves, which was hilarious.

After the beaches, we searched, failed, and finally succeeded at finding food.  Village Coffee was a total lifesaver and they have THE BEST smoothies ever!  Finally, after all the walking, Rachal convinced me to get a ride out to Luna Park.  We were told that it isn’t a running theme park anymore, but I wanted to take photos anyways.  Turns out, it’s still open!  There’s a nighttime discount, and we had such a blast on all the rides.  Plus, the view from across the harbor of Sydney is absolutely beautiful.  The lights and entertainment at Luna Park are pretty impressive to boot!

Blue Mountains

Three words: Hiking. Blue. Mountains.  The hop-on-hop-off red bus was included in our iVenture Pass (mentioned in Day One ) which took us around the park until we decided to get off at Echo Point and start walking.  We saw the Three Sisters Peak and started descending the stairway to hell.  True to its name, it seemed never ending and it was a tough trek to the bottom.  We ended up on a wild goose chase to find Leura Falls, which made Rachal want to punch me.  However, after about four hours of hiking, we found it!!  Totally incredible, and totally worth it.  On our way back up towards civilization, we met a lovely local couple who even gave us a ride to a pub across from the train station.  Clearly this was the most logical thing since Rachal needed her celebratory beer of course!

Our four days in Sydney were amazing.  We saw and experienced so much and didn’t feel too stressed about trying to cram the whole city in over one day.  I highly suggest spending your time out in the city instead of spreading out too far, unless you have enough time of course!  There’s a lot to do, and a lot of land to cover.

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20 thoughts on “ the perfect 4 day sydney itinerary ”.

Such a great trip ideas! What was your budget for this trip if you don’t mind me asking? Anna

We spent WAY more money than I would have by myself. I’m a fan of getting groceries and eating out only one meal a day, but my friend Rachal is more on the luxury side of things. So I don’t have a realistic number for you. Sorry Anna! I’m going to do better at tracking my budget for my trip to South America, so stay tuned!

I’ve always wanted to do the Sydney Bridge Climb! Definitely doesn’t seem like a budget activity though…although I could see how it would balance out by spending a day hiking and spending way less money.

It really was not a budget item for us, but what we learned (after the fact unfortunately) was that there are so many deals for it! Between Groupon and so many other avenues, you just need to shop around a bit. Never pay full price!

Looks like you had fun even with 4 days and did a lot of activities 🙂 I wouldn’t have thought about combining hiking with a place like Sydney but I’d love to include that myself too 😀

Oh we crammed in a LOT and the hiking was so worth it! Still wish we had more time there though.

You really did see a lot in four days. I love that you combined urban adventures with hiking and beaches – that is so my kind of trip!

I couldn’t survive if I didn’t combine it all! Just love all of it.

Thanks for the tips! I didn’t go to Luna Park or Little Tokyo when I was in Sydney. Quite a few cool things to see and do there 🙂

There really are so many places, and such quirky things to see!

Awesome stuff! I’d love to go to Australia, but it is just so expensive to fly there. I’ll have to keep my eye out on deals! 🙂

I know that struggle… but I definitely get emails every little bit about deals! 🙂

Wow you guys did a lot in 4 days! Sydney is a second home to me. I will be heading there for another 3 months at the end of the year. This post makes me super happy. Glad you enjoyed this wonderful city!

I’m so jealous!!! I had such a blast there and can’t wait to visit again!

Sounds like you had a great 4 days in Sydney. I would definitely purchase the iVenture pass if I was visiting the city.

It was a total blast! And the iVenture pass was so worth it!

This is a great itinerary! I’ve always wanted to go to Australia and I’ll keep this in mind when I plan my trip out.

Thank you! It was so much fun!

Wow! It’s super-brave to get a spontaneous tattoo in a foreign country! I think I’d need to plan for like… a decade… before taking the plunge!

It’s definitely not my first foreign tattoo… haha but I understand!

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Sydney 4-Day Itinerary: Explore the Best of the Harbour City

March 29, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 4-day adventure in Sydney with a curated itinerary that promises an unforgettable experience. Begin your journey at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, a serene oasis amidst the bustling city, before marveling at the architectural wonder of the Sydney Opera House. Next, take in panoramic views from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, followed by an exciting visit to the Taronga Zoo Sydney, where wildlife encounters await. Day two is a shopper's paradise starting at the Queen Victoria Building, rich in history and retail therapy, then dive into the underwater world at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. Don't miss the chance to meet Australia's unique creatures at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and end the day with fresh finds at the Sydney Fish Market. Your third day takes you high above at the Sydney Tower Eye observation deck, followed by a spiritual pause at St Mary's Cathedral and a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park. Engage with history and culture at the Australian Museum to round off the day. Conclude your Sydney escapade with sun, sand, and surf at the iconic Bondi Beach and the picturesque Coogee Beach, where the waves will wash over your feet and the memories of your trip will last a lifetime.

• Day 1: Sydney's Spectacular Start

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Begin your Sydney adventure amidst the lush greenery of the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Nestled near the edge of the bustling city, this tranquil oasis offers a serene escape with its vibrant floral displays and scenic walkways. Spend an hour wandering through the themed gardens, marveling at the exotic plant species, and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere before heading to your next iconic Sydney landmark.

Attraction Info

• Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open from 7:00am-8:00pm，Open from 7 am to sunset every day (December 31st only applies to New Year's Eve activities)

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Sydney Opera House

Just a short stroll from the natural splendor of the gardens, the Sydney Opera House awaits to enchant you with its stunning modern architecture. This world-renowned theater isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a hub of cultural activity. Dedicate an hour to explore the exterior and, if time permits, peek inside to witness the grandeur of its halls. It's a perfect segue from nature's artistry to human innovation.

• Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Continue your journey through Sydney's architectural marvels with a visit to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This majestic bridge not only connects points across the harbor but also offers breathtaking views of the city and sea. Spend an hour here, perhaps walking across or simply admiring this feat of engineering from a distance, and let the panoramic vistas etch into your memory.

• Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney NSW, Australia
• Open 24 hours

Taronga Zoo Sydney

Conclude your first day with an exciting trip to Taronga Zoo Sydney, where the wild heart of Australia comes to life. Set aside three hours to meet the diverse array of animals that call this place home, from native Australian wildlife to exotic species from around the globe. The zoo's unique location also provides stunning views of Sydney Harbour, making it a picturesque finale to a day filled with discovery.

• Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia
• Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour
• Open from 05/01-08/31,9:30am-4:30pm;Open from 09/01-04/30,9:30am-5:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

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• Day 2: Sydney's Splendid Shopping and Marine Marvels

Queen Victoria Building

Begin your second day in Sydney with a touch of elegance at the Queen Victoria Building, a grand shopping mall housed in a historical edifice. As you wander through its ornate Romanesque architecture, you'll find yourself amidst a variety of high-end shops and delightful eateries. Allot two hours to explore the intricate stained glass windows and the majestic Great Australian Clock, making sure to indulge in some retail therapy along the way.

• 455 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open on Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat,9:00am-6:00pm;Open on Thu,9:00am-9:00pm;Open on Sun,11:00am-5:00pm

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Next, dive into the underwater world at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, just a short stroll from the Queen Victoria Building. Immerse yourself in the aquatic wonderland for an hour, where you can marvel at the colorful marine life, including majestic sharks and vibrant coral reefs. The aquarium's unique glass tunnels and themed zones provide an up-close experience with the ocean's fascinating creatures.

• 1-5 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour, Sydney 2000
• Open from 03/29-04/01,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 02/01-03/28,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 04/02-05/29,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 05/30-05/31,10:00am-8:00pm

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

Continue your wildlife adventure at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, conveniently located near the aquarium. Spend two hours meeting Australia's most iconic animals, such as koalas, kangaroos, and one of the world's largest crocodiles in captivity. The zoo's interactive displays and natural habitats offer an intimate and educational experience with the diverse species of the Australian continent.

• 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
• Open from 01/02-01/29,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 01/30-03/28,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 03/29-04/01,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 04/02-04/12,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 04/13-04/28,9:00am-5:00pm;Open from 04/29-05/29,10:00am-5:00pm

Sydney Fish Market

Conclude your day with a visit to the bustling Sydney Fish Market, where the freshest catch awaits. Spend an hour here to experience the lively atmosphere of one of the world's largest fish markets. Sample some of the finest seafood, witness the excitement of the auction floor, and perhaps even take a cooking class to learn how to prepare your favorite seafood dishes like a true Sydneysider.

• Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd &, Bank St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
• Open from 7:00am-4:00pm

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• Day 3: Soaring Views to Serene Vistas in Sydney

Sydney Tower Eye

Begin your third day in Sydney with a sky-high experience at the Sydney Tower Eye. As the first stop of the day, you'll ascend to the observation deck that offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. Spend an hour marveling at Sydney's skyline, spotting iconic landmarks from an eagle's perspective. Located in the heart of the city at Westfield Sydney, the Tower Eye is a perfect starting point to get your bearings and plan out the sights you'll visit next.

• Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000
• Open from 01/02-01/29,10:00am-9:00pm;Open from 01/30-04/06,10:00am-8:00pm;Open from 04/07-05/30,10:00am-7:00pm

St Mary's Cathedral

After descending from the heights of Sydney Tower Eye, a short stroll will lead you to the divine tranquility of St Mary's Cathedral. This architectural masterpiece is not only a place of worship but also a work of art that captures the essence of Sydney's religious heritage. Spend an hour here to appreciate the serene atmosphere, the stunning stained glass windows, and the intricate Gothic Revival design that makes this church a spiritual and visual sanctuary amidst the bustling city.

• St Marys Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
• Open on Mon-Fri,6:30am-6:30pm;Open on Sat-Sun,6:30am-7:00pm

Next, embrace the greenery and open spaces of Hyde Park, Sydney's oldest public parkland. Just a few steps away from St Mary's Cathedral, this city park offers a peaceful retreat with its majestic trees, well-manicured gardens, and the famous Archibald Fountain. Spend an hour here to unwind, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply people-watch, soaking in the vibrant yet relaxing energy of one of Sydney's favorite outdoor spaces.

• Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Australian Museum

Conclude your day with a cultural deep dive at the Australian Museum, the nation's first museum with an impressive collection that spans across natural history and anthropology. Located near Hyde Park, dedicate a couple of hours to explore the extensive exhibits that showcase Australia's rich history, indigenous cultures, and unique biodiversity. It's an enlightening finale to a day filled with breathtaking views and serene cityscapes.

• 1 William Street Sydney NSW 2010 Australia
• Open on Mon-Wed,9:00am-9:00pm;Open on Thu-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm，Closed on Christmas Day, specific business status is subject to opening conditions on that day

Pullman Sydney Hyde Park

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• Day 4: Basking in Sydney's Coastal Splendor

Bondi Beach

Kicking off the final day with the iconic Bondi Beach, your Sydney itinerary wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in the vibrant beach culture that defines this coastal gem. Nestled in the heart of Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia, this world-renowned shoreline offers a perfect blend of golden sands, turquoise waves, and a bustling atmosphere. Spend about 3 hours here to soak up the sun, surf the renowned waves, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. Bondi Beach isn't just a beach; it's a lifestyle, where the spirit of Sydney's laid-back charm and outdoor enthusiasm comes to life.

• Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia

Coogee Beach

As the sun begins its descent, continue your beach-hopping adventure to the serene Coogee Beach. Less than a 30-minute drive from Bondi, Coogee offers a more relaxed vibe, making it the ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration. With 2 hours at your disposal, you can take a refreshing dip in the ocean, explore the natural rock pools, or simply lie back on the soft sands and reflect on your Sydney escapade. Coogee Beach, with its calm waters and inviting coastal walks, presents a tranquil retreat to conclude your 4-day Sydney journey.

• New South Wales, Australia

MAD Monkey Coogee Beach

Coogee sands hotel & apartments, coogee beach house, top things to do in sydney-2024.

The Sydney Opera House is a symbol of Australia. It is recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the 20th Century and is also a landmark in Sydney. Its white exterior, a shell-like sculpture built on the harbour, like scattered petals floating in the air, have for many years left observers in amazement. It houses a concert hall, a music theatre, a performance theatre, a children's theatre and a photography studio. Auctions, concerts and other events are held every month or even every week.

△ Enjoy wonderful performances from all over the world

△ Behind the scenes, walks, tours and experiences

△ Admire the magnificent scenery of Sydney Harbor and enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea time

The Taronga Zoo shows tourists Sydney's original scenery and brings them with a satisfying wildlife experience. With incredible lush native forest belts and harbour views, it is an ideal place to enjoy Australian animals and addicting Sydney views.In the Sky Safari, you will enjoy a fascinating trip over the zoo, and breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour.

△ Meet Australian native animals

△ Enjoy daily animal performances

△ Get up close and feed the animals

SEA LIFE Sydney ticks all the boxes for a fun and informative day out. Discover 14 themed-areas, including Discovery Rockpool, West Coast Shipwreck, Dugong Island, and Shark Valley. There are 13,000 marine creatures of 700 species, including sharks, dugongs, penguins, water dragons, and many more waiting to be discovered. Experience a trip to many different underwater worlds, where the magic of the Great Barrier Reef comes to life and penguins waddle by from up close.

△ Watch the waddling steps of penguins

△ Admire the colorful tropical fish and coral reefs

△ Learn more about sharks

Wild Life Sydney Zoo is an indoor zoo located in the Darling Harbour, adjacent to the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. There are nine pavilions at Wild Life Sydney Zoo, where you can see not only Australia's well-known koalas and kangaroos, but also cute but cruel Tasmanian devils, huge saltwater crocodiles, and lizards with unique characters. Of course, in addition to viewing from a distance, you can also have some "close contact" with animals.

△ Encounter cute koalas in Australia

△ See the cute short-tailed kangaroo

△ Meet the huge saltwater crocodile

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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The Perfect 4 Days in Sydney Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to Sydney Australia and wondering what to see and do to make the most of your time? This 4 days in Sydney itinerary includes the highlights of the harbour city, the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, and the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Mountains.

You’ll spend lots of time in and around Sydney’s beautiful harbour, enjoy art, culture and history in The Rocks, catch the ferry to Manly, relax on Bondi Beach, meet koalas, kangaroos and wombats at Taronga Zoo and go bushwalking on the clifftops of the Blue Mountains. It’s a busy itinerary but it’s varied and you’ll see the best of Sydney in 4 days.

Sydney is my home and I’ve included my favourite sights and activities to help you plan an amazing stay. This guide is perfect for solo travellers to Australia . But if you have company, this 4 day Sydney itinerary will work for you too, just tailor the activities to suit your interests.

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links which means I may make a small commission on sales that result from clicks on those links. This does not cost you any extra and helps to keep this website running. I appreciate your support!

Table of Contents

4 Days in Sydney Itinerary

Day1: city highlights.

Spend the first day of your 4 days in Sydney exploring the city, see the highlights and discover why Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

• Start the day with an early morning Harbour Bridge climb and enjoy panoramic city and harbour views from the top of Sydney’s most famous bridge. I highly recommend climbing the bridge. It’s not as scary or as hard as you might think and the view is spectacular!
• If the Bridge climb doesn’t appeal, you can enjoy incredible views across Circular Quay and the Opera House from the Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout (open 9 am – 5 pm).  
• Walking across the Harbour Bridge is another option. From the bridge stairs in The Rocks, it takes around 20 minutes to walk across to Milsons Point. Catch a ferry back to Circular Quay from Luna Park on the north side of the harbour and you’ll pass underneath the bridge.

• Next spend a couple of hours in The Rocks , Sydney’s oldest area. A scenic walking tour of The Rocks is the perfect way to explore the suburb that was once frequented by convicts, sailors and whalers. Along the way, discover Sydney’s colourful colonial history.
• Call in at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) and enjoy the free Modern Art exhibits. Stop for a coffee at the MCA Café and take in the stunning views across the harbour to the Opera House.

Sydney Opera House

• Head back to Circular Quay and continue walking around the Sydney Cove foreshore to the Sydney Opera House . The view is spectacular and there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.  
• Walk up the stairs inside the Opera House to the box office area and book a ticket for an evening performance. Find out what’s on at the Sydney Opera House OR take a guided Tour of the Opera House to see behind the scenes at Australia’s most famous performance venue and learn all about this iconic building.

Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens

• Then continue walking around the point to the Royal Botanic Gardens . Enjoy the beautiful green space with gorgeous harbour views and stop for a picnic on the lawn or a coffee at the Palace Café.
• On the other side of the Botanical Gardens, the Art Gallery of NSW has free exhibitions that culture lovers will enjoy, including Australian Aboriginal artworks. You can also buy a ticket to see visiting international art exhibitions.

• Head back towards the harbour to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair to watch the sunset.

TIP: Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is one of the best sunset spots in Sydney and from the lookout, you’ll have a perfect view of the sun setting behind the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

• After sunset head back to the Opera Bar for dinner and a drink before your evening performance at the Opera House.

TIP: The gates to the Sydney Botanical Gardens close at sunset so you’ll need to walk back via the road. Head towards the Art Gallery, take a shortcut through the Domain and walk back down Macquarie Street to the Opera House.

Day 2: Sydney Beaches & Sydney Harbour Ferry

Circular quay.

On the second day of this 4 day itinerary in Sydney, you’ll visit Sydney’s most famous beaches, Manly Beach and Bondi Beach and see beautiful Watsons Bay on the way. The Manly ferry ride is a personal favourite of mine and you’ll see the harbour for a fraction of the cost of a Harbour Cruise.

• Arrive early at Circular Quay (wharf 3) and catch the ferry to Manly. The trip takes around half an hour and it’s one of the best ways to see Sydney Harbour and something you don’t want to miss if you’re in Sydney for 4 days.

TIP: Have your camera ready! As soon as the Manly ferry leaves the wharf, you’ll pass right by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Manly Beach

• When you arrive in Manly, stroll through the Manly Corso shops to Manly Beach. Go for a swim, watch the surfers and enjoy the lovely scenery then take a short walk around Manly Point past the pretty Fairy Bower Sea Pool to Shelly Beach .
• Stop for brunch at The Bower café overlooking the Fairy Bower pool and the ocean. Then head back to Manly Wharf to catch the Ferry to Watsons Bay. The Harbour Hopper ferry leaves from Manly Wharf at 11:08 am.

Watson’s Bay

In Watson’s Bay, there is a choice of things to do.

• The scenic South Head Heritage Trail is a lovely short walk around the South Head of Sydney Harbour. From the wharf, walk towards pretty Camp Cove Beach along a cobblestone road. The 1.7-kilometre trail continues to the red and white striped Hornby Lighthouse past secluded Lady Bay Beach . Take the stairs down to the beach and enjoy a swim (no swimsuit is required here).
• Head back to Robertson Park and stop for high tea at the historic Dunbar House and enjoy the parklands and the harbour views.
• Then walk through the park to The Gap Lookout for dramatic cliff and ocean views . Catch bus 350 to the famous Bondi Beach . There’s a bus stop at The Gap and the trip to Bondi takes around half an hour.

Bondi Beach

• Aim to arrive at Bondi Beach in the early afternoon and enjoy a swim in the surf, relax on the sand, and grab an ice cream at Gelato Messina. There are lots of cafes near the beach like the Hard Rock Café where you can get a meal or a coffee.
• From Bondi Beach, it’s a short walk to the Notts Avenue Lookout at the south end of the beach. This lookout has a stunning view of Bondi Beach & the ocean-filled pools at the Bondi Icebergs Club. At the club, you can swim some laps in the pools ($9), and grab a drink, a coffee or a meal.
• If time permits, the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk begins just past the Bondi Iceberg’s Club. The trail is famous for its sweeping cliffs and ocean views. It’s one of Sydney’s most popular walking trails, enjoyed by both locals and visitors. It takes around 2 to 3 hours to walk the 6 kilometres to Coogee Beach.
• Bronte Beach is around halfway, and you can continue to Coogee or head back to the city from here. Catch a bus to Bondi Junction and a train to Circular Quay

** Get off the train at Martin Place and walk to Circular Quay OR change trains in the city at Town Hall or Central Station and catch a city circle train to Circular Quay.

• Back in the city, head to Dawes Point for an evening performance by the Sydney Theatre Company or the Sydney Dance Company and enjoy gorgeous views of Sydney Harbour at night from the Piers.

Day 3: Taronga Zoo & Darling Harbour

On day 3 you’ll meet Australia’s unique wildlife at Taronga Zoo , explore Darling Harbour and visit the Sydney Aquarium . It’s another busy day but strolling around Taronga Zoo is another of my favourite ways to spend a day in Sydney and it’s perfect for first-time visitors.

Taronga Zoo

• Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo and take the Cable Car up the hill to the Zoo entrance.
• See kangaroos , koalas, Tasmanian Devils, wombats, platypus and other Australian wildlife along with a wide variety of other animals from around the world.
• Book an animal encounter at Taronga Zoo to see your favourite animals up close and learn all about them. I highly recommend this and it will make the day really special.
• Enjoy the superb location on Sydney Harbour with stunning views of the city from various vantage points around the zoo. Don’t miss the giraffe enclosure with million-dollar views.

TIP: Skip the queues and book your Taronga Zoo , tickets in advance and save on your ferry tickets with a 48-hour ferry pass for the Harbour Hopper ferry.

Darling Harbour & The Sydney Aquarium

From Taronga Zoo, catch the 2 pm Harbour Hopper ferry to Darling Harbour.

• Spend the afternoon discovering the underwater world at the Sydney Aquarium. See sharks, tropical reef fish, turtles, penguins, dugong, jellyfish and more.

In Darling Harbour there are more things to do if time permits:

• Escape into a peaceful space at the Chinese Garden of Friendship , a beautifully landscaped garden with water features and ponds full of fish.
• Visit the Australian National Maritime Museum and enjoy learning about Australian history with interactive exhibits. You can climb on board a tall ship or a submarine.
• Relax on the lawn in Tumbalong Park in the centre of Darling Harbour or shop for souvenirs. Stop for a coffee or a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the Darling Quarter.

Day 4: Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are my favourite escape from the city and a day trip to Katoomba in the upper mountains is the perfect way to end this 4 day Sydney itinerary. Today you’ll experience a UNESCO World Heritage Wilderness area and enjoy magical mountain and escarpment views that will take your breath away.

TIP: Dress for bushwalking with covered walking shoes, sunhat, 50+ sunscreen, and carry water . Take a jacket and wet weather gear as wel. The weather is noticeably cooler in the upper mountains.

How to get to the Blue Mountains from Sydney

The upper Blue Mountains are about 100 kilometres from the city and the easiest way to get there is to book a day trip from Sydney . An organised tour is a great idea if you’d like to relax and let a local guide show you around. But if you prefer to be independent it’s easy to catch a train to Katoomba in the upper Blue Mountains (or to drive if you have a car.)

From Circular Quay, catch a bus or train to Central Station. Blue Mountains trains to Katoomba leave every hour or so from the Country Trains area and the trip takes around 2.5 hours.

After arriving in Katoomba, catch a local blue bus (686) to the Echo Point Lookout area.

TIP: The Hop–on–Hop–Off (red) bus also leaves from Katoomba station and visits stunning lookout points around Katoomba and the Blue Mountains. It’s a great way to get around if you don’t want to walk or you’re short of time on a day trip to Katoomba.

Best things to do in Katoomba

• Enjoy the classic Blue Mountains view of the “ Three Sisters ” at Echo Point. The view here is breathtaking and if you follow the walking trail you can see the Three Sisters up close. You can continue down the Giant Staircase into the Jamieson Valley but it’s a steep climb back up the valley.
• Then head across to the other side of the Echo Point Lookout area to the Prince Henry Cliff Walk and enjoy more breathtaking escarpment views from the trail. This short walk is a personal favourite of mine and follows the clifftops to Katoomba Falls . It’s less strenuous than walking into the valley and takes around 2 – 3 hours to return to Echo Point.
• If you keep walking Beyond Katoomba Falls to Scenic World , you can take a ride across the valley in the Scenic Cableway or descend into the Jamieson Valley on the Scenic Railway. This is a bit more adventurous but also a lot of fun.
• Return to Katoomba Village on the blue public bus (686) or walk back to Echo Point and catch a bus from there.
• Grab a meal or a drink at Pomegranate Café or the historic Carrington Hotel near Katoomba Station before catching a train back to the city.

How to get around Sydney

Sydney has a reliable public transport network and it’s easy to get around by bus, train, ferry and light rail. Buy an Opal card ($20) to pay your fare and top it up when you run out of credit. It’s easy to use and it works on all public transport, just tap on and off at the start and end of each journey.

Taxis and Uber are also available in Sydney but they are a more expensive way to get around the city so I suggest using public transport if you’re on a budget.

How to get from the airport to the city CBD

Sydney International Airport is 8 kilometres from the city centre and it takes about 25 minutes or longer by car depending on the traffic. I suggest catching the train or taking a shuttle bus. The Airport Link train will take you to the CBD in around 13 minutes. It’s an easy and reliable way to get to the city.

Taxis and Uber are also available at the airport.

Where to stay in Sydney

If you’re visiting Sydney for 4 days, there’s a wide variety of accommodation available but the best places to stay in Sydney are in the City Centre at The Rocks , in the CBD or Darling Harbour. You’ll find cheaper accommodation further away from the city.

Budget: Sydney Harbour YHA , in the heart of the city, has a perfect location for sightseeing and a fantastic harbour view from the rooftop. Private rooms and dorm beds are available. The hostel is built over The Big Dig, an archeological site and it’s just a short walk to Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the Botanical Gardens.

Mid Range : The  Rendezvous Hotel  has an upmarket location at the Rocks that is perfect for 4 days in Sydney. The rooms are clean and comfortable and there’s a gym and a pool.

Luxury: The Four Seasons Hotel  has one of the best locations in Sydney near Circular Quay. Guests love the service at this popular five-star hotel and the reviews are exceptional.

How many days is ideal in Sydney?

There’s so much to see and do in Sydney that 3 – 5 days is an ideal amount of time to spend in the harbour city. With 2 or 3 days in Sydney, you can see the highlights, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, The Rocks, Bondi and Manly Beach and spend a day in the beautiful Blue Mountains. But it’s a very full schedule and if you allow a few extra days, you can relax and see more of the city.

Is 4 nights in Sydney enough?

4 nights in Sydney is enough time to see the highlights and to get a taste of the city. But there’s so much to see and do in Sydney you could easily spend a week or more.

Is it worth visiting Bondi Beach?

Yes, the famous Bondi Beach is definitely worth visiting but can get crowded. Bondi is a beautiful surf beach with a wide stretch of golden sand and clear blue water. Relax on the sand and swim or surf the waves and enjoy the laid-back beach vibe. Bondi Beach is popular with backpackers and a younger crowd. There are lots of cafes, restaurants and bars and a lively nightlife.

Final Thoughts: 4 Days in Sydney

With 4 days in Sydney, you’ll have time to see the city highlights, the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, experience history, art and culture, visit Sydney’s most famous beaches at Bondi and Manly and enjoy the laidback surf vibe that Sydney is famous for. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet koalas, kangaroos and other unique Australian wildlife and see some dramatic and beautiful scenery in the Blue Mountains.

But 4 days in Sydney is only enough time to scratch the surface. If you have more time to spend there are many wonderful day trips in Sydney and other things to do that are perfect for solo travellers .

This 4 day Sydney itinerary is varied and shows you the best of the city, the harbour and beaches and the beautiful Blue Mountains. Enjoy!

You might also enjoy

Scenic Self-Guided Walking Tour of The Rocks Sydney

15+ Best Sunrise Spots in Sydney

15 of the Best Sunset Spots in Sydney

The Best Places to Stay in Sydney

15+ of the Best Things to Do in Sydney

10 Great Day Trips in & Around Sydney, Australia

The Beautiful Blue Mountains in Australia

10 Things to Love about Byron Bay in Australia

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Linda is a travel blogger and teacher from Australia. She loves to travel solo and over the years she’s visited around 50 countries on 5 different continents. Her recent trips include volunteer teaching in an orphanage in Uganda, swimming with sea turtles on the stunning islands of the Great Barrier Reef and a jaunt to Java and Bali climbing volcanos, visiting ancient sacred places and zipping around on the back of a motorbike.

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4 Day Sydney Itinerary – Exploring Sydney’s Local Culture

The nature of travel is to explore new places and create your own story by finding unique and individual experiences. Sydney is such a diverse city that one could spend a week there and not run out of things to do. That’s probably unlikely that you’ll have that long, so I’ve crafted this suggested itinerary on how to spend 4 days in Sydney.

The big Sydney sights will take maybe 2 days, after which you might be left wondering what next? This Sydney itinerary will help you cut through the noise and show you how to explore Sydney’s local culture: the neighbourhoods most guidebooks don’t get around to, the secret beaches only the locals frequent and more.

Summary: 4 Day Sydney Itinerary

• Breakfast at the QVB,
• Walk to Circular Quay and the Opera House, then through the Botanic Gardens,
• Walk to cab to Darling Harbour for lunch
• Watch the sunset over drinks atop the Shangri-La Hotel,
• Eat dinner in The Rocks.
• Explore Newtown for brunch,
• Have an arvo beer and snack at Young Henry’s,
• Walk the backstreets of Surry Hills before finding a place for dinner here,
• Hit the clubs of King’s Cross (Darlinghurst) for a late night jaunt. Don’t get pregnant.
• Catch a ferry to Watson’s Bay,
• See the Gap and out to the Lighthouse at the entrance of Sydney Harbour,
• Have lunch at Doyles,
• Catch bus 380 to Bondi Beach,
• Follow the hordes south round the coastal walk to Coogee (or until you’ve seen enough),
• Have dinner in Darlinghurst and go on a Razorhurst walking tour with Two Feet and a Heartbeat,
• Catch a ferry to Manly,
• Optional: Catch a bus to Freshwater Beach,
• Catch the ferry back to the city and get a train to Milson’s Point, Walk through Luna Park,
• Have dinner in the Rocks.

Day 1 – Check all the boxes

Don the comfortable shoes and fill your stomach because today will involve a substantial amount of walking. In fact, most of your 4 days in Sydney will involve lots of walking due to the difficulty in navigating public transport.

Morning – QVB and Circular Quay

Start your day with Breakfast in the Queen Victoria Building. If you are into exotic tea the Palace Tea Room will be the perfect starting point for your day. The QVB is a beautiful Victorian building and is filled will plenty of (admittedly upmarket) shops if you fancy a spot of shopping.

After you’ve filled your stomach, walk about 10 minutes to Circular Quay. This is probably the most people you will see in one spot in Sydney so either come prepared to get lost in a sea of iPads and fanny packs or come early. Real early.

Snap your photos of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, because, despite the people and the hype they really are quite spectacular and one-of-a-kind.

Once you have your photos, explore the Botanical Gardens to the degree that your inner botanist and nature-lover will allow. However, don’t let the name fool you, it is more of a park than a garden so prepare for large, hilly expanses of grass and spotted with trees.

The “Gardens” are a great spot for a break and morning tea so bring something to nibble on and enjoy a rest. Walk through the park and find Art Gallery Road (there’s only one road). Follow this road to the exit of the Gardens, past St Mary’s Cathedral, Archibald fountain in Hyde Park and continue along Market St (or King St) to Darling Harbour.

Afternoon – Darling Harbour

It’s about a half hour walk in total to Darling Harbour. It’s one of the more popular areas for dining and drinking, it’s  full  of restaurants on both sides of Cockle Bay and further south towards the Entertainment Centre as well.

Enjoy an afternoon of people watching and wandering Darling Harbour before getting a ferry from King St Wharf back towards the Shangri-La hotel in The Rocks where to watch the sun set over a drink from the 36 th floor at Blu Bar.

Evening – The Rocks

Find dinner in the Rocks (try Harts pub for a gourmet Aussie burger experience), then have drinks at either Palmer and Co (cocktails), Baxter Inn (whiskey) or the Lord Nelson Brewery (craft beer), depending on your style and beverage preference.

For more information on where to stay in Sydney , check out this post here.

Day 2 – Explore suburbia

Morning – newtown.

With most of the big sights out of the way, escape the CBD to Newtown and find a place for brunch.

To experience Newtown is to explore, and given the unique subculture of the suburb, finding the perfect spot along King Street will be no trouble. There aren’t any “tourist attractions” per se, but it’s a precinct frequented by locals that is packed with local cafes, bars, and a huge music scene.

Walk up and down King Street, looking in shops that pique your interest, and even some that don’t: it’s all part of the experience.

Record stores, second-hand bookshops, independent clothing retailers and a United Nations of culinary options are all integral parts of what makes Newtown great. There are even a number of breweries in the area so make sure to visit one if you love your beer. Young Henry’s is right in Newtown or there’s Batch Brewing, Wayward Brewing, and Grifter a little further out.

Afternoon/Evening – Surry Hills

In the event that you have not quite reached your independent, hipster quota for the day, retreat back to Central Station and begin an exploration of adjacent Surry Hills before settling on a place for dinner.

When you couldn’t possibly bear to hear another person ask “Would you like single origin?” or tell you the profile of the water you have been served, get way out of your comfort zone at Absinthe Salon for a strikingly gothic and authentic absinthe experience. One suburb east is Darlinghurst. If clubbing is your thing, you won’t want to miss the nightlife of Kings Cross.

Day 3 – Coastal Sydney

Morning – watson’s bay.

By your third day you are a pro at navigating George St or using the City Circle trains. Get to Circular Quay and board a ferry to Watson’s Bay.

Walk through the park up to ‘The Gap” – essentially a large cliff face popular for suicides. It’s jus across the road near a big bus stop, you can’t miss it.

If you are feeling energetic walk north to the lighthouse, around the point and back to the park. Enjoy lunch at either Doyle’s on Fisherman’s Wharf or Doyle’s on the beach, depending on your budget.

Afternoon – Bondi Beach

Catch bus 380 south to Bondi Beach (about 25 minutes and departs every 20 minutes).

Navigate the maze of people to your small allotment of sand, soak in the sun and have a dip in Australia’s most famous coastal waterway.

Follow the hoards around the point and walk for a couple of hours all the way to Coogee. It is all beautiful coast and on a clear day you will probably feel like you would want to be nowhere else in the world. Walk past Coogee Beach to Wylie’s Baths for a dip in one of Australia’s most picturesque colonial pools.

Evening – Darlinghurst

Catch the 373 bus back to Darlinghurst to explore the underbelly of Sydney.

History-heads will want to drop $40 on the Two Feet and a Heartbeat “Kings Cross Razorhurst Walking Tour”, which will walk you through the heart of gangland wars, prostitution and drugs of the 1920s.

Eat dinner at either Lucio Pizzeria or The Victoria Room before donning your cowboy boots for a cocktail at the Shady Pines Saloon, satisfied with your success of seeing as much of Sydney as possible in only 3 days.

For more great tips on seeing Sydney in a budget friendly manner, check out Voyager’s guide to Sydney .

Day 4 – North of the Bridge

Morning – manly.

Make your way back to Circular Quay and board a ferry bound for Manly.

Manly is the most popular suburb for visiting on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It has a long pedestrian mall that stretches from the ferry terminal to Manly Beach.

You will likely see many shops that you have seen plenty of already on the “mainland”, and a few that are clearly just after tourist’s money – one store in particular has been advertising a “closing down” sale for over 4 years now!)

Spend a few hours relaxing in the sun and if you like you water a bit calmer, take a 15 walk south to the end of the path to Shelley Beach.

Morning/Afternoon – Freshwater Beach

As an alternative, if the crowds are too much for you at Manly Beach and you’d like to see a beach in a more local setting, from Manly, catch the 159 or 136 buses towards Dee Why or Chatswood respectively.

Freshwater is a great representation of Australian Beach culture. Get there on a Sunday morning to see the Surf Life Saving Nippers, which is kids in training to learn beach skills like swimming in the surf, beach sprints and eventually how to use equipment to save a life.

Afternoon – Milson’s Point

If time permits, upon your return to Circular Quay, catch the city circle train to Milsons Point, the station on the south end of the Harbour Bridge.

Walk through Luna Park, take in the incredible views of the city skyline and walk back along the bridge to the CBD for dinner. You will be perfectly placed for dinner in Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood, The Rocks.

By now you are completely exhausted but satisfied that you have seen every aspect of Sydney and have a list as long as your arm of places you will visit when you inevitably return.

Bonus: Days 5 and 6

If visiting in Summer and you love the idea of water parks and thrill rides, (western) Sydney is now home to its very own Wet’n’Wild water park . It’s a bit of a distance from the city, but it’s a really fun day out with rides for all excitement levels. Even my own thirst for thrills was quenched satisfactorily when I visited, which was a surprise for me.

You can read all about my day out here .

A great day trip option could also include catching a train (or driving) out to the Blue Mountains. It is home to the unique formation called the Three Sisters, many boutique cafes, antiques and shops, as well as plenty of hiking for the outdoors type.

Heading to Sydney soon?

Or just pin it for later.

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Sydney railway square yha review.

Hi Luke.. really loved your non-obvious tips.. :) I’m going to sydney for couple weeks and will bring your list with me for sure!

Thanks for sharing

I really loved your breakdown.

Sydney is a city with a little bit of everything. From the area beaches to the downtown you’re sure to experience the city fully thru an extended visit. We were in and out in hours; layover both to and from Fiji. So we hung in No Man’s Land outside of the airport. If we returned we’d have to see the beaches. No way we could skip on such immense beauty, and hey I’m a beach bum at heart.

Thanks for sharing!

Yeah man for sure. There is so much see and there really is something for everyone. An endless array of beaches, really good coffee, international iconic attractions, and for those willing to drive a little, plenty of bush to explore! Hope you’re able to make your back someday and experience it fully!

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The best day trips from Sydney

Venture to one of these countryside, coastal or mountainous locations only a couple of hours away from Sydney

Sydneysiders are a lucky bunch. Jump in the car (or the train) and within just a few hours you can find yourself in some of the most beautiful spots in the state.

But with so many options to choose from, it begs the question: where should you visit first? You're certainly spoilt for choice, so we've cherry-picked a selection of the best day trips from the city – featuring quaint villages, seaside hangouts and mountain escapes.

Around a two-hour drive or a scenic train ride away from the CBD, you'll find yourself rambling through eucalypts and gums, gazing out over gorgeous ocean cliffs, or watching the world go by in a sleepy village café. All these places have two things in common: they're close enough to get you there and back within a day, and they're well worth your time.

While you're on an adventure, check out the power of nature at these  waterfalls  and blowholes in NSW.

Want to make a night of it we've rounded up some of the best caravans and campervans to rent and tiny houses to stay in ..

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The most awesome day trips from Sydney

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

You’ll discover deep-rooted history and picturesque landscapes at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, 50 minutes north of Sydney by car. Feast your eyes on views of Pittwater to the Central Coast from the sandstone viewing area at West Head Lookout. Take a short walk through the bush to find important Indigenous sites on the Aboriginal Heritage walk , which includes viewings of historic rock engravings and handprints made by the Guringai people. The park includes many waterways including Hawkesbury River, Pittwater and Cowan Water, plus numerous creeks and coves to explore. Want to see more? Hire a paddle boat from the Bobbin Inn.

How far? 43km

Get there by car. It’s about 50 minutes’ drive from Sydney CBD.

• Royal National Park

The Royal National Park has endless possibilities for sightseers and explorers eager to connect with nature. Trek the expansive coastal cliffs and walk through eucalyptus bushlands, swim under the waterfalls in Wattamolla, or paddle down Hacking River by hiring a canoe from the Audley Boatshed. You can even catch a glimpse of whales migrating north for the winter from May to November. Cyclists can brave the 10km Loftus Loop Trail and unroll a picnic blanket for lunch at Ironbark Flat or Wattle Forest afterwards.

How far? 36km

Get there by car. It’s about one hour away from Sydney CBD. Or take the train from Central to Otford, which takes just over an hour and costs $7.65 with an Opal card.

Blue Mountains

Take a train to the Blue Mountains and make a day of visiting gobsmacking lookouts like Echo Point and wandering along tracks that boast rich Indigenous history. Trek the scenic loop of the Grand Canyon track near Blackheath to see world heritage listed waterfalls, sandstone walls and native plants. Or soak in the vibrant shades of flora in the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in Mount Tomah . Take a peek into the Glow Worm Tunnel in Lithgow where the bioluminescent glow of fungus gnats covers the walls and ceilings. Or relax in at one of the finest day spas in the Blue Mountains  for massages, facials, soak therapies and body wraps.

How far? 79km

Get there by car, it’s about one hour away from Sydney CBD. Or catch the Blue Mountains line train from Central to Katoomba, then the bus from Katoomba to Echo Point for the lookout. It costs around $10 with an Opal Card.

Dedicate a few solid hours to simply wandering around this adorable seaside village, stopping in at cute cafés and the famous Ice Creamery, Kiama (aaaaaaah). A trip here wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Kiama Blowhole , where waves spurt out through a  crevasse  in the cliff, forming a fabulous salty fountain. Play golf at the rural golf course or walk the Kiama Coast Walk for views of lush green cliffs overlooking rocky shores, rivers and private beaches. There are also plenty of surrounding coastal towns connected by cycleways for fitness fanatics to conquer. You can also book magestic activities like dolphin watching cruises, outdoor rock climbing and kayaking tours.

How far? 130 km

Get there by car, it’s about two hours away from Sydney CBD.

• Things to do

Home to panoramic coastal views, sunny weather and an infamous surf, 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. Cruise the crystal waters on a boat charter, tee off at the Palm Beach Golf Course, or grab a bite at the Boathouse for lunch after embarking on a Pittwater kayaking tour . The Barrenjoey Lighthouse delivers a bird’s-eye-view of the sandy dunes, 91 metres above sea level. And if you're a die-hard Home and Away fan, you can pretend you're a Summer Bay local, as much of the show's filming was done at Plam Beach and the surf lifesaving club.

How far? 44km

Get there by car. It’s about one hour away from Sydney CBD. Or catch the L90 bus from Wynyard Station for around $5 with an Opal card.

Kangaroo Valley

If you’re looking to escape to the countryside, Kangaroo Valley, located two hours south of Sydney, has got you covered. Go wine tasting at the Yarrawa Estate Winery, where you can sample locally made jams. Entertain the kids by kayaking down Kangaroo River or go horse riding through rainforest and grazing lands . You can admire the Victorian architecture of the Hampden Bridge or the bushland views from Mannings lookout, too. For the DIYers there are also plenty of  hands-on classes in gourmet cooking, gardening, soap-making and the art of high tea.

How far? 156km

Get there by car. It’s about two hours and ten minutes away from Sydney CBD.

Port Stephens

Despite being a two hour drive from Sydney CBD, Port Stephens offers adventure and scenic views that make it worth the time at the wheel. Embark on a camel ride at Oakfield Ranch or dive in for a snorkel with dolphins. Sandboard the largest dunes of Stockton Beach during the day, or do it by sunset for a more romantic picnic setting. For adventurers, the outdoor rock climbing at Port Stephens’ sea cliffs will have you reaching unimaginable heights overlooking the ocean slapping the rocky shore, or you can opt to stretch your legs on the newly completed Tomaree Coastal Walk that is a whole 27 kilometres of stunning views.

How far? 179km

Get there by car, it’s about two hours and 30 minutes away from Sydney CBD.

The Entrance

Less than two hours north of Sydney, you’ll find one of the most charming corners of the Central Coast. Famed for its community of hungry pelicans – there’s a public feeding of the local ‘scoop’ (that’s the collective noun) every day at 3.30pm, which can attract up to 50 hungry birds –  this coastal town sits astride the natural ocean channel that separates the sapphire waters of Tuggerah Lake from the Pacific. A day out here is perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors but want to keep one foot planted in civilisation – the town has plenty of caf é s and restaurants you can retreat to when you need a feed or a coffee. There are many super spots for fishing and prawning and multiple places in town where you can hire the necessary equipment if you’re not already kitted out. If you’re a keen cyclist, the 12-km shared trail along the lake will have you spoilt for beautiful views and just north of the Entrance, there are a number of easily manageable bushwalking tracks through Wyrrabalong National Park. During the sunnier months, head to Tuggerah Beach, which boasts more than 8km of golden sands lapped by ocean waves, and if you’re not put off by chillier waters, surf conditions are excellent here all year round.

How far? 110km

Get there by car. It’s about 1.5 hours from Sydney CBD.

This quaint spot is the South Coast getaway for people who live on the South Coast, and being locally adored is always a good sign. It’s basically a two-for-one holiday: the salty sea breeze floating up from Seven Mile Beach to the sprawling green hills makes you feel like you’re in a small country town and a forgotten seaside village in the same breath. There’s incredible baked goods to be found at  Milkwood Bakery and you’ll find unusual bottles of plonk at the almost-too-cool Justin Lill Wines & the Berry Bottleshop . If fancier eats are in order, Queen St Eatery is an elegant little restaurant on Berry’s main drag executing the classics with style. A generous plate of prawns grilled in their shells carry a whisper of aniseed from the Pernod flambe, and the herbal spiciness of a proper Café de Paris butter on a minute steak is balanced by a crunchy nest of wafer-thin fries. If you’re ready to burn some energy, the three-hour return hike to the stunning plateau of the Drawing Room Rocks is always a winner. Looking to stay the night? Plan a long simmer in a balcony bath with sightlines out to the ocean at the stunning Mount Hay Retreat . 

How far? 138km

Get there by car on a two-hour drive that’ll take you past some gorgeous ocean cliffs – stop off at the Kiama Blowhole on the way, or take your pick of other South Coast adventures . 

Step into another time by visiting the historic village of Berrima, established in the 1830s. Widely recognised as the preserved example of a Georgian village on the Australian mainland, Berrima is surrounded by wineries, charming centuries-old architecture, and fancy boutiques. Buy handmade country produce at Mrs Oldbucks Pantry and warm winter knits from the Australian Alpaca Centre. Stop by Eschalot for lunch for a hatted fine-dining experience at a heritage-listed building. Walk by the Berrima River for a platypus sighting, or book yourself a ghost tour at the local courthouse.

How far? 125km

Get there by car. It’s just under two hours away from Sydney CBD.

Lake Macquarie

While you may only know Lake Macquarie for its expansive body of water, this unassuming region sandwiched between Sydney and Newcastle has a lot to offer city folk looking to slow down and get back to nature. If you want to go there and back again in a day, Bilbo Baggins-style, then we must recommend a trail  ride with  AAA Horse Riding & More . You'll be trotting and cantering under palm tree canopies, along lush fern pathways and through skinny gums stretching skyward at the foothills of  the Watagan Mountains. Afterwards, become a salty skipper while you cruise around the region's namesake lake on a private runabout boat with  Jetbuzz Watersports .

How far? 127km 

Get there by car in just under two hours, driving through the bushlands of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Stanwell Park

Situated on the northern tip of Wollongong, Stanwell Park is where Australian aeronautical pioneer Lawrence Hargrave first flew in his box kite in 1894. Since then, Bald Hill lookout has been the spot for hang gliding and paragliding, as well as a good place to enjoy an alfresco lunch. You can also hike the 6.5km walking track of Wodi Wodi or hand feed kangaroos at Symbio Wildlife Park . If all else fails, slap on some sunscreen and head to the beach for a splash.

How far? 64km

Get there by car. It’s about one hour, 15 minutes from Sydney CBD. Or take the train from Central to Otford, which takes around one hour and costs about $6 with an Opal card. The walk from Otford Station to Stanwell Tops takes 22 minutes.

Mermaid Pools

• Southern Highlands

Trek through the bush, swim in rivers and chase waterfalls around Mermaid Pools near Tahmoor Gorge. You’ll encounter steep steps and rocky platforms as you venture to the water, but the views are well worth it. While the Mermaid Pools themselves are not the safest to swim in, the many swimming holes you’ll encounter on the trek are ideal for a splash. The See Through Pools are the perfect pit-stop for a swim, allowing you to view hidden rock formations underwater.

How far? 100km

Get there by car, it’s about 1.5 hours from Sydney CBD.

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4 days in Sydney

October 4, 2019 //  by  Mae-Gene //   4 Comments

Why, hello there! This post might contain affiliate links, which means I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you!) if you purchase from them. 

As an Australian, it always seemed a bit weird to write about Sydney. I grew up taking family trips to Sydney (it’s only a 1 hr flight from my home city of Melbourne), so it always seemed so normal to visit.

Now, as a travel blogger, I’m constantly hearing how people want to visit Australia, and Sydney in particular. From endless blue skies (don’t get me started on the weather) to the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney is filled with pinch-me moments you’ll remember for years to come.

I’ve put together a guide to spending 4 days in Sydney, so if you’re planning on visiting Sydney, read on my friends!

Day 1 – iconic sydney.

There are endless things to see in Sydney, but you can’t go past the iconic parts of Sydney. From the Sydney Opera House to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, these are the iconic parts of Sydney that anyone would recognize, regardless of where they’re from.

You should spend some time during your 4 days in Sydney in the area known as Circular Quay. This harbor is a must , especially on a sunny day and is where you’ll see incredible views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

I’d recommend walking across the Sydney Harbor Bridge (this is free!) where you’ll get the best views of the Opera House and the surrounding harbour. Once you’re across on the other side, you can walk back, take a train back or take a ferry!

Things to do:

• Go for a stroll around Circular Quay, soaking in the views
• Walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge (I did this once, and while it was $$, it was so much fun!)
• Take a Ferry across Sydney Harbour
• Go for a tour of the Sydney Opera House 
• Take in views from Pylon viewpoint (note: there is an admission fee)
• Have a drink at the Opera Bar, located right outside the Opera House and enjoy the incredible harbour views.

Day 2 – Explore more of Sydney

Look, there are so many things to do in Sydney, it would be remiss of me not to mention that you couldn’t possibly fit it all into a few days.

What you do on your second day depends on your interests.

Do you love food? Here are some suggestions for your 4 days in Sydney…

• Brunch at the Grounds of Alexandria: on sunny days and weekends, this place is packed with people enjoying a drink or chillin’ out. The Grounds of Alexandria is filled with brunch options and is a beautiful place to relax.
• Enjoy a delicious meal at Sydney’s Chinatown: if you’re new to Australia, Australia has some of the best Chinese food outside of China!
• Brunch or late-night drinks in the inner-city suburb of Newtown (this is also where Sydney’s nightlife is at)

Or, are you after more iconic views or beautiful architecture?

• Taronga Zoo: hear me out, guys! Taronga Zoo’s location means it has beautiful views of Sydney. The giraffes, in particular, have the  best views of the Harbour Bridge.
• The Strand Arcade: the Strand Arcade is a Victorian-style arcade in the heart of Sydney. The building is heritage listed and is like something out of an old British movie. The arcade is still fully functional and is now home to many boutique and designer shops.
• Royal Botanic Gardens: Spread across 30-hectares, you could spend  hours here. Located next to Circular Quay, you’ll get incredible views of Sydney Harbour from here too. A particularly photogenic spot at sunset is Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.

Day 3 – Bondi to Coogee Walk

Bondi Beach is iconic around the world, all thanks to the TV show, Bondi Rescue. And while to most Australians this is not the most beautiful beach Sydney has to offer, it’s still worth a visit.

Psst: unless you hate beaches. Then maybe don’t visit Bondi 😉

The best way to experience Bondi Beach is via the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. This walk hugs the coastline and involves stopping at various beaches and small seaside towns. While the walk is called the “Bondi to Coogee” walk, you can do it in either direction.

On a hot day, I’d recommend starting in Bondi and walking towards Coogee (as the sun will be “behind” you as the day progresses) If you don’t mind the heat or if it’s not a hot day, I’d recommend starting at Coogee. Bondi is a far bigger beach, and it’s fun to “build” up to it.

Both Bondi and Coogee are accessible via public transport (bus), and it takes approximately 45min – 1hr from Sydney city. At the end of your walk, you can just take the bus back to your hotel!

Make sure you bring water and swimwear, as you’ll want to cool off on the many beaches that make up this part of the coast.

• Enjoy food at the Coogee Pavillion (their fish and chips are to die for)
• Relax at Coogee Beach, a smaller but still pretty beach
• Have a relaxing dip at Bronte Baths (a saltwater rock pool that has free entry!)
• Visit the iconic Bondi Icebergs Pool (note: closed for cleaning on Thursdays)

Day 4 – Blue Mountains day trip

The Blue Mountains is only a 1hr drive from Sydney, but the views here will make you feel like you’re much further from the city. This region is known for dramatic cliff views and forests.

The region is named “The Blue Mountains” after the blue-like fog that appears as a result of the eucalyptus oil which is released from the eucalyptus (or gum) trees.

For most visitors, I’d recommend a day trip here, unless you have extra time or enjoy hiking (then definitely spend another day here)

Driving from Sydney takes 1hr, or if you’re on a budget or don’t like driving you can take the train here which takes approximately 1.5 – 2hrs.

Psst: Driving can be stressful, and parking here can be hard to find, especially on weekends or during busy holiday periods. 

I’d suggest choosing from one of the many day hikes available. When visiting, I chose the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. This 6 km walk was short enough not to feel rushed but also long enough to enjoy Blue Mountain’s incredible views.

You can start at Katoomba Scenic World (take a bus) and walk along the cliff walk, stopping at the most popular lookout to see the Three Sisters (and you can even walk into it). The walk ends at Leura with the waterfalls (which at the moment are small because of the current drought).

You can take a bus to Leura Station, or if you’re still feeling like walking, you can walk to Leura station (which takes about 20-30 min from the end of the hike).

Are you spending more than 4 days in Sydney?

If you enjoy hiking, I’d add an extra day in the Blue Mountains and stay in Katoomba.

Another alternative is visiting Jervis Bay, which is a 4hr drive from Sydney. Jervis Bay is home to one of Australia’s most beautiful beach (Hyams Beach) which has white sand and turquoise water. This is a must if you love beaches. If you want to read more about Jervis Bay, make sure you check out my guide on things to do in Jervis Bay !

Are you spending less than 4 days in Sydney?

If you’re running short on time, I’d skip the Bondi to Coogee walk – unless it’s a lifelong dream of yours to see Bondi. While Bondi is a beautiful beach, it’s not the best beach Sydney has to offer.

Where to stay in Sydney

Where to stay on a budget: Veriu Broadway

This boutique-style hotel is located in Sydney’s business district. And even though I’ve listed this as a budget-friendly place, this hotel is beautifully decorated and a great option for those who love designer experiences on a budget.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Book on Booking.com

For those on a medium-range budget: Ovolo Woolloomooloo

This boutique hotel is located along the harbour, giving incredible views of Sydney Harbour. Similar to the budget-friendly option above, this boutique hotel is stylishly decorated and great value for the price.

Where to stay if you want to treat yo’ self: The Langham

The Langham Sydney is really something. This hotel is in the top 100 hotels in the world and even features a Sotheby’s artwork collection. You can also get incredible views of Sydney Harbour too (who can say no to that?!)

I hope my guide to spending 4 days in Sydney was helpful!

Regardless of where you choose to visit in sydney, you’re guaranteed a fun time. i’ve visited this city many times in the past, and it never ceases to amaze me., are you visiting sydney have any questions leave ’em for me below, and i’ll answer them.

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About Mae-Gene Yew

I'm obsessed with eating copious amounts of sushi and hiking in New Zealand. But on most days you can find me in my home city of Melbourne dreaming of my next adventure, working my lil' corner of the internet (this blog!) or gettin' ready to strap on my hiking boots. Read more...

Reader Interactions

January 17, 2020 at 9:21 pm

Great post. You’ve covered all the best bits of Sydney. I can’t wait to go back again.

January 18, 2020 at 12:56 am

Thank you Ruby! I hope you get to visit Sydney again 🙂

January 18, 2020 at 7:36 pm

I am so glad that you reminded everyone how much tourism will play an important role in the recovery of Australia. A wonderful post!

June 22, 2020 at 12:21 am

Thank you Alexandra! 🙂

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Discover the Best of Sydney in Just Four Days with Our Expert Guide

Sydney, the vibrant capital of New South Wales, is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure, culture, and stunning natural scenery. With its iconic Opera House, picturesque harbor, and golden beaches, there is plenty to explore and enjoy in this cosmopolitan city. In this 4 day Sydney itinerary, we will cover the must-see attractions and activities, as well as tips on accommodation, safety , and budget-friendly options.

Getting to Sydney, Australia

Sydney is served by two major airports, Sydney Airport (SYD) and Bankstown Airport (BWU). From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or train to your accommodation. If you’re traveling from elsewhere in Australia, you can also take a train or bus to Sydney.

Accommodation in Sydney, Australia

Sydney offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Wake Up! Hostel is a popular option for budget travelers, offering a central location and a range of amenities, including a rooftop terrace and bar. For those looking for a higher-end experience, Swisshotel offers luxurious rooms and stunning views of the city and harbor.

Safety and Budget-Friendly Tips for Sydney, Australia

Sydney is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling . Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. To meet other travelers and save money , consider staying at a hostel or attending free events and activities around the city. For budget-friendly dining options, head to local markets and food courts for delicious and affordable meals.

4 Day Itinerary for Sydney, Australia

Day 1: arrival and city exploration.

After arriving in Sydney, settle into your accommodation at Wake Up! Hostel or the luxurious Swisshotel . Then, spend your first day exploring the city. Visit the iconic Opera House, take a stroll through the picturesque Botanic Gardens, and visit the historic Rocks district. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for breathtaking views of the city and harbor.

Day 2: Bondi Beach and Coastal Walk

No visit to Sydney is complete without a visit to Bondi Beach. Spend the morning soaking up the sun and surf at this iconic beach before embarking on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This six-kilometer walk takes you along stunning cliffs and beaches, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Day 3: Taronga Zoo and Manly Beach

Catch a ferry to Taronga Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most iconic animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils. In the afternoon, head to Manly Beach for a relaxing afternoon in the sun and surf.

Day 4: Blue Mountains National Park

Take a day trip to the nearby Blue Mountains National Park for a dose of stunning natural scenery. Take in the panoramic views of the Three Sisters rock formation, explore the lush rainforest, and learn about the region’s Aboriginal history and culture.

Final Thoughts on Sydney

Sydney offers an incredible array of experiences for travelers, whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned globetrotter. From the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge to the beautiful beaches and scenic coastal walks, there is no shortage of sights to see and activities to enjoy.

While it may seem like a short trip, this 4 day Sydney itinerary provides a great starting point for exploring the city and getting a taste of what Sydney has to offer. Remember to take advantage of public transportation and plan your days in advance to make the most of your time here.

As with any travel, it’s important to prioritize safety and make sure you are aware of your surroundings. Additionally, solo travelers should take advantage of opportunities to meet other travelers , whether it’s through a hostel, a walking tour, or a social event. And finally, for those traveling on a budget, be sure to check out our tips and suggestions for making the most of your money while in Sydney.

Overall, Sydney is a must-visit destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. We hope this article has provided you with a helpful guide to planning your four-day adventure in this incredible city.  Be sure to read The Ultimate 3-Week Eastern Australia Itinerary: Sydney, Melbourne, Noosa, and Byron Bay to plan the rest of your trip!

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20 Best Road Trips From Sydney

If you're living in Sydney or just visiting and have a few days (or better yet, weeks) to spare, you could throw a stone in a random direction and follow it to a number of beautiful road trip destinations.

Starting off at Australia's east coast is very advantageous for thrill-seekers and explorers, as the area is rich in expansive parks and preserves, sky-high mountains, and cities and towns that'll win you over in a matter of hours.

Featuring everything from ghost towns in the middle of nowhere to the world's largest rainforest, here are some of the road trips that will stay with you for life and make you an expert on all things Australia.

1. Moss Vale Road

2 hours 10 minutes from Sydney (160 km)

If you want to get away from the bustle of Sydney life and visit someplace more rural yet nearby, Moss Vale makes for a beautiful Highlands retreat, and getting there via Moss Vale Road makes for a very scenic experience.

You can get to Moss Vale Road by simply following Highway 1 and Princes Highway along the coast, then joining Kangaroo Valley Road at Berry and staying on it for about 15 km.

Following Moss Vale Road north will take you through Kangaroo Valley and across Kangaroo River via the beautiful Hampden Bridge. Here, you can check out the KV Pioneer Village or keep going further north through the Barrengary Nature Reserve, which is roughly where the road ends.

If you're itching for more, continue north along Nowra Road (stopping at Fitzroy Falls is a must!) until you reach the town of Moss Vale - thanks to its pleasant summer temperatures and the unique ambient of places like Argyle Street, you'd be hard-pressed to find a homelier town in East Australia.

One of the fastest-developing towns in New South Wales, Moss Vale has plenty of bars, retail stores, and a great golf course - great news for prospective visitors like yourself!

This is a town with a lot of history, so while you're here, take a few hours and enjoy a self-guided heritage tour that covers everything from the beautiful Leighton Gardens and Pavilion to the historic houses on Argyle and Brownley Streets.

2. Newcastle

2 hours 15 minutes from Sydney (163 km)

For those looking for something more urban but still by the ocean, follow the Pacific Highway north for two hours to reach Newcastle, New South Wales' second-most populated city.

This coal export juggernaut (named after England's very own coal port of Newcastle) is a beautiful coastal city boasting incredible beaches, countless scenic parks, and year-round cultural events, courtesy of the gorgeous Newcastle Civic Theatre.

If you're visiting on a sunny day, definitely go on a picnic and fire up a barbecue at Blackbutt Reserve or enjoy a swim at the near-100-year-old Mereweather Ocean Baths. Alternatively, if you're a history buff, take a tour of the monumental Fort Scratchley and see some breathtaking views of the ocean while you're there.

A good place to get a great view of Newcastle is the Obelisk, a monument for a windmill that once pumped water to the area. Because you won't be directly by the coast, your beautiful panoramic view will include not just the city but the blue ocean waters as well.

On the way to Newcastle, be sure to stop at Broken Bay Pearl Farm to learn some trivia on pearls or rent a boat to catch some oysters yourself. Also on the way is Lake Macquarie, the largest saltwater lake in the southern hemisphere (and a beautiful one at that).

Finally, check out Hunter Valley, known for having some of Australia's best wineries – be sure to enjoy a bottle of the iconic Hunter Valley Semillon, and experience Chardonnay like you never have before.

3. Blue Mountains National Park

2 hours 20 minutes from Sydney (139 km)

As great as East Australia's towns and cities are, our next itinerary demonstrates the country's greatest asset, its natural beauty – we're talking about Blue Mountains National Park.

Although there's some stiff competition, the signature features of this park are the Three Sisters, a one-off triad of rock formations which you can access via the Giant Stairway or admire from the nearby town of Katoomba.

Speaking of, Katoomba's Scenic World is as scenic of an experience as they come – featuring an incline railway system and a cableway ride from Doppelmayr to Jameson Valley, this place is not to be missed.

The park features countless hiking trails that seem to go on forever, and you can enjoy an outdoor meal by Wentworth, Katoomba, or Gordon Falls as you listen to the relaxing sounds of water.

You can get to Blue Mountains NP by taking a 2.5-hour drive along the M4 Motorway and Great Western Highway west of Sydney.

If you're looking to take the road trip a bit further, consider visiting the town of Lithgow – combining a small-town feel with the nearby Blue Mountains and national parks from all sides, this makes for a very scenic afternoon stop before venturing deeper into New South Wales for your next adventure.

4. Grand Pacific Drive to Jervis Bay

3 hours from Sydney (196 km)

Capitalizing on the beautiful coastline of the South Pacific, Jervis Bay is definitely one of the crowning jewels of New South Wales.

The bay features impossibly white sand, often said to be the whitest in the whole world. You can cruise along the entire bay or settle on one of the beaches and camp out there – the White Sands Park is definitely a highlight, as are Jervis Bay Marine Park, Cave Beach, and Greenfield Beach.

Jervis Bay is ideal for water-based activities, so consider going sailing, kayaking, or take full advantage of the many dive boat services and explore the ocean bed.

If you want to see one of the best national parks in the South Pacific Coast, check Booderee National Park's unique blend of beaches, high cliffs, and botanic gardens. For something a little bit different, visit the historic Point Perpendicular Lighthouse and enjoy the splashes of the ocean waves from its titular peninsula.

The drive from Sydney can be every bit as scenic as Jervis Bay itself – along the Grand Pacific Drive, you can turn your trip into a full-fledged coastal vacation by stopping at Royal National Park, Wollongong, Shellharbour, and a slew of other beautiful places that deserve their own travel guide.

5. Canberra

3 hours from Sydney (290 km)

An uninitiated foreigner may be surprised to find out that Sydney is, in fact, not the capital of Australia – Canberra is. That aside, a road trip from one of Australia's biggest metropolises to another is sure to give you plenty to look at.

Driving through Campbelltown, follow the M31 Motorway and the Federal Highway all the way to Canberra. The trip Sydney to Canberra spans just under 300 km and can be done in about 3 hours.

Designed some 100-odd years ago by American architect W.B.Griffin, the ‘Garden City' of Canberra beat out Sydney and Melbourne for the title of capital of Australia, and it's not hard to see why.

With beautiful landscapes like the National Arboretum and the Australian National Botanic gardens, this is one of the greenest major cities you're ever likely to visit. Keep a camera handy even in the most urban parts of town.

As you might expect from such a large city, the list of things to do here is practically endless – relax in the Lennox Gardens by Lake Burley Griffin, brush up on the country's history at the National Museum of Australia and the War Memorial, or enjoy a fancy night out in one of the countless bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

For the ultimate Canberra experience, you should explore the Parliamentary Triangle – this part of the city was designed with tourism in mind, and most of Canberra key buildings and constructions can be found here, from the Parliament House to various recreational facilities.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Sydney to Canberra

6. Mollymook

3 hours 10 minutes from Sydney (225 km)

Mollymook is a small beachside town with a population of just over 1000, whose name is thought to be derived from a species of albatross.

Getting here from Sydney couldn't be much simpler – follow Highway 1 and Princes Highway south (mostly sticking right by the coast) for about 225 km, or 3 hours.

Mollymook is actually generally used as a blanket name for two locations – the town of Mollymook and the adjacent Mollymook Beach, which has double the population and, as the name suggests, a beach on the Tasman Sea.

There's nothing exceptionally flashy about this town, yet it simply commands your attention with its beautiful coastal views, surf-friendly beaches, and events such as poker tournaments and boat races.

In the charming town of Mollymook, be sure to check out Bannisters Day Spa & Walking Track, and take a few swings at the Mollymook Golf Club or Hilton Golf Course if you feel so inclined.

On your way here, you should definitely consider stopping at Milton, a unique little town along the Princes Highway and an important thoroughfare for its region.

7. Central Tablelands

5 hours from Sydney (435 km)

If you're looking for something a little bit more obscure, you can explore the hidden gem that is the Central Tablelands region, a sequence of several small towns best known for their wineries. The towns are sprawled along the M31 motorway and the Lachlan Valley Way, and you can reach the last one in the chain in about 5 hours.

Your first stop would be the town of Gundaroo, which is close to Lake George (check out Weereewa Lookout – it's beautiful!), as well as Tallagandra Hill Winery and Lerida Estate – you can actually order the former's wine from anywhere in Australia if you wind up liking it, and the latter offers servings of delicious truffle dishes to go along with your wine sample.

Next up are the twin towns of Harden and Murrumbateman – being slightly bigger than Gundaroo, you'll have a bigger selection of charming locales to visit here. On top of that, wineries include Clonakilla, Helm Wines, and Dionysus Winery, among others.

The last town on this itinerary is Young. Because of its annual Cherry Festival, this town is affectionately called the Cherry Capital of Australia. Visit Wombat Heights to sample the fabled Young cherry, and cap off your road trip with a picnic at Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Garden.

Another thing that's great about this route is how close it is to Canberra (Gundaroo is less than 2 hours away). If you have some extra time and took us up on our Canberra suggestion (#5), be sure to stop by Central Tablelands on the way back.

8. Thunderbolts Way

5 hours 30 minutes from Sydney (415 km)

Some 150 years ago, an escaped convict, alias Captain Thunderbolt, ran and hid from the authorities along a route that spanned several hundred kilometers. This route would later come to bear his name, and is one of the most beautiful stretches of land in East Australia.

Thunderbolts Way combines the Eastern Highlands, various national parks, and a couple of quaint villages and farmlands into an unforgettable experience. After following Highway 1 north of Sydney to Gloucester, your journey officially begins.

As great as cruising along the Great Dividing Range is, it's even better for you to stop by Chinamans Creek, Manning River, or any of the National Parks on either side of you to soak in the beautiful scenery.

Around the halfway point of the route, you'll enter the farming town of Walcha, home to the Apsley River. The town also acts as a passageway towards Werrikimbe and Oxley Wild Rivers National Parks, the latter of which features the gorgeous Apsley Falls.

If you want to dedicate more time to this area, make an overnight stop at the next town – Uralla. Featuring museums, memorials, and heritage sites, this historic town is a staple of the route and a definite must-see.

As soon as the route ends in Inverell, things get a lot more urban. Finish your trip by learning about the town's rich history at Inverell Pioneer Village, and enjoy the vintage vehicle exhibits at the National Transport Museum.

9. Jindabyne and Kosciuszko National Park

6 hours from Sydney (520 km)

Traveling with a backdrop of the Australian mountains is one thing, but getting up close and personal is a different animal altogether. Following Monaro Highway and Boboyan Road past Canberra and into Snowy Mt Highway, it won't be long before you reach the beautiful Kosciuszko National Park.

Featuring, among others, the tallest mountain in the Australian Mainland (Mt Kosciuszko, at well over 2,200m) and a network of rivers including Eucumbene and Snowy Rivers, you'll have a virtually endless supply of hiking trails and campout spots here.

Thanks to its Alpine climate, the park has enjoyed a rich skiing history spanning over 150 years, and it features the Perisher and Selwyn Snow Resorts, both quintessential Kosciuszko experiences if you're traveling in the winter.

To really make the most of this trip, your best bet would be to visit the town of Jindabyne first – check out the town's visitor centre to get acquainted with the area and enjoy a stroll along the Lake Jindabyne shoreline.

From there, take the Alpine Way running for over 120 km, through Kosciuszko National Park and to the edge of New South Wales. Following this road into the high country, you can explore the gorgeous Alpine woods and enjoy a scenic hike or mountain bike ride.

10. Coffs Harbour

7 hours 30 minutes from Sydney (670 km)

If you're up for a scenic ride including coastlines and rainforests alike, and especially if you took our advice and checked out Newcastle (#2), consider driving out to Coffs Harbour along Highway 1 and then trekking through some gorgeous natural parks.

Coffs Harbour is a beautiful coastal city with plenty to see and do. The Regional Botanic Garden should make for a great warm-up for the rest of the route, and you can admire the tropical haven that is the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House (which also features dinosaurs, because why not?)

Prior to becoming a major tourist attraction, Coffs Harbour owed most of its economic growth to the production of bananas. If you're up for something a little bit different, you could spend a few hours at the banana-themed Big Banana Fun Park – it's every bit as wacky as it sounds!

Taking a two-hour drive west of here along the aptly named Waterfall Way, you'll drive through (or past) several national parks and various breathtaking waterfalls before reaching the town of Armidale.

Bongil Bongil National Park a coastal park featuring lush eucalyptus forests, beaches with dunes, and the ever-so-adorable koala. Be sure to check out the beaches to the east to take a quick dip or relax by the dunes.

Further west, Durango's dangling boardwalk will literally have you walking above the park's gorgeous rainforests. Some of the waterfalls featured here include Crystal Shower, Red Cedar, and Dangar Falls, each more beautiful than the last.

Rounding off the chain is Cathedral Rock, which combines forests and granite formations into a very unique national park. Once you're done exploring, definitely stop at Wollomombi Falls, not far from Armidale.

11. Byron Bay

8 hours 30 minutes from Sydney (760 km)

Byron Bay marks the easternmost point of mainland Australia and is quite beautiful to boot, so if you have about 8h 30m, consider making the drive here from Sydney .

From its humble beginnings as a logging town to one of the fastest-developing towns in the east coast, Byron Bay has grown to attract hundreds of thousands of tourists each year thanks to its beautiful landmarks and relaxed, hippie-esque community.

Later on, farming would become the main industry in Byron Bay and has continued to thrive until the present day. Get a sample of the local delicacies by checking out The Farm at Byron Bay – after visiting bakeries, restaurants, and home-grown food freshly picked from the soil, you definitely won't be leaving town hungry.

To see the actual easternmost point of this easternmost town, go and visit the Cape Byron Lightstation. On top of its beautiful ocean views, the lighthouse is also a museum that teaches you about its own history, and that of Byron Bay as a whole.

The lighthouse is nestled between some beautiful beaches, The Pass being the most iconic, and is part of the incredibly scenic Cape Byron State Conservation Area – if you're going to stay in Byron Bay for the night (which you really should), you'd be wise to find a room here.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Sydney to Byron Bay

12. Lightning Ridge

8 hours 45 minutes from Sydney (715 km)

For a small settlement with barely over 2,000 people and no major parks or preserves to its name, this quaint mining town is sure to keep your schedule full, especially if you love art. It might seem like too long a drive to see such a small place, but it's well worth it.

Following the Great Western Highway out of Sydney, past several beautiful national parks and onto Castlereagh Highway, you'll reach Lightning Ridge in just under 9 hours, breaks excluded.

This inconspicuous town is very special, in that it's one of the few places worldwide where you can find the gorgeous black opal. To get an idea of what the excavation process entails, take the Big Opal Underground Mine Tour and check out the Walk In Mine.

Amigo's Castle is probably the last thing you'd expect to see in a place like this – in this tower-turned-art-gallery, you can admire local art and paintings as you learn the story of the former miner who built a castle of his own.

Another must-see in town are the Chambers of the Blackland, an underground opal shop featuring sandstone carvings of Elvis, Chewbacca, Medusa, the Buddha, and a few hundred others.

If you haven't had enough exposure to beautiful, yet bizarre art, be sure to visit John and Viki Murray's Art Gallery – you can purchase paintings and admire murals of decrepit vehicles, arid desert landscapes, and emus wearing makeup.

13. Melbourne

9 hours from Sydney (880 km)

The city of Melbourne truly needs no introduction – Australia's former seat of government is one of the richest and most beautiful cities in the modern world. Getting to Melbourne from Sydney involves a relatively simple drive down Hume Fwy and Craigieburn Bypass.

European influence permeates throughout Australia, but it is probably most apparent in Melbourne. From the domed Flinder Street Station and its multicolored art trams to countless themed restaurants and locales, the city borrows aspects of European culture and makes them its own.

Exploring the city can be quite the experience, as it is said to go through “four seasons a day”. You can expect the unexpected here, including sudden, heavy rain which may or may not clear up in a matter of minutes – nevertheless, it's a quintessential part of visiting here.

Some of the most obvious places to check out include the Royal Exhibition Building (with the gorgeous Carlton Gardens), the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Queen Victoria Market, the Southern Hemisphere's largest outdoor marketplace.

Although there are plenty of strong contenders, the natural highlight of the city would have to be the Royal Botanic Gardens – combining lovely lakes, thousands of floral species, and a breathtaking view of the city, no visit to Melbourne can be complete without visiting the Gardens.

If you're historically curious, check out the Old Melbourne Gaol, a former prison that housed the most hardened of criminals, as well as the Shrine of Remembrance, which commemorates those who served in World War I.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Sydney to Melbourne

14. Murray River

9 hours 30 minutes from Sydney (880 km)

A great way to sweep through the Australian southeast is to travel along the Murray River, the longest in all of Australia at just over 2,500 km.

Starting from the Australian Alps and continuing northwest, the river defines the border between New South Wales and Victoria and empties into the Southern Ocean at Murray's Mouth. On the way, it cuts through plenty of interesting towns, especially towards the east.

For instance, the charming town of Echuca makes the most of its proximity to the river. For example, you can take a walking tour of the Port of Echuca, or take a riverboat and cruise along the Murray River, enjoying an on-board meal and snapping some great pictures.

Right across the river is the town of Moama, well-known among gambling aficionados for its poker machines. You can expect some crowds if you visit in mid-February, as the town marks the finish line of the Southern 80 Water ski race.

Up north is Deniliquin, and you should definitely consider stopping at Waring Gardens for a picnic – what started off as a testing ground for the fertility of the soil is now a beautiful park featuring Italian sculptures and a lagoon system.

Further east, in the Tocumwal area, you shouldn't miss out on Barmah and Murray Valley National Parks, characterized by their beautiful flooded forests. In conjunction, these two parks form the largest red gum forest in the entire world.

15. Brisbane and Gold Coast

10 hours from Sydney (910 km)

Our first venture into Queensland takes us to the large-and-in-charge city of Brisbane and its adjacent Gold Coast. To get there, follow the classic Pacific Highway route north for about 900 km.

Once you get to Brisbane from Sydney , your first order of business should be to cross Victoria Bridge into the South Bank precinct. Located by the Brisbane River, this beautiful area features plazas, rainforests, and the iconic Wheel of Brisbane.

For a once-in-a-lifetime view of Brisbane, you should go to the Mount Coot-tha Lookout. Try to avoid visiting during the weekend if you can help it, though, as it can get rather crowded and take away from the serenity of the experience.

Eat and shop at the Northshore, go rock climbing at Kangaroo Point Cliff Park, or go for a cruise on the Brisbane River – there truly is something here for everybody.

Thanks to their proximity and shared status of large coastal towns, Gold Coast and Brisbane are like two sides of the same coin – there's no reason to visit one without stopping at the other too. Click here to read our detailed guide on the ultimate road trip from Sydney to Gold Coast.

If the name didn't give it away, the beaches at Gold Coast are absolutely incredible. The view of the city's gigantic buildings from Surfer Paradise Beach is incredible, and if you'd like to hit the waves, Snapper Rocks is one of the area's best surf breaks.

Gold Coast has theme parks, and lots of them – here, you can awaken the child in you and have a blast at Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet n Wild Gold Coast, and so many others.

Much like the one in Brisbane, the highest point in Gold Coast is one you don't want to miss. The SkyPoint Observation deck offers an outright unbelievable panoramic view of the city and ocean. If you're up for an adrenaline rush, grab a harness and do the SkyPoint climb to the top pf the building.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Sydney to Brisbane

16. Old Glen Innes Road

10 hours 30 minutes from Sydney (790 km)

Before the advent of highways and motorized vehicles, going along Old Glen Innes Road (or Old Grafton Road) was the only practical way of accessing the mountains in the Australian northeast. The benefit of driving it today is the long stretch of beautiful landscapes.

From Sydney, follow the Pacific Highway for about 6.5 hours to Grafton. You'll definitely want to fuel up here, as Old Glen Innes Road takes 4 hours to drive through and has no petrol stations of its own. From Grafton, follow the Gwydir Highway for just over 5 km to get to Old Glen Innes Road.

One thing you'll be seeing plenty of along this road are rivers – Orara, Guy Fawkes, Nymboida, and Boyd are just a few in a long list of rivers worth checking out on the way. As is typical of water-rich areas, you can also expect to see lots of gorgeous valleys and forests that time forgot.

Just past the halfway point is the town of Dalmorton, once a prosperous mining area, but currently a ghost town featuring campsites for travelers of the Old Glen Innes Road. The main thing of interest here is the Historic Tunnel, whose walls are decorated by near-150-year-old black graffiti.

17. Nightcap National Park and Dorrigo National Park

12 hours from Sydney (970 km)

The Rainforest Way is a choose-your-own-adventure-type itinerary that'll have you driving through a few dozen towns and cities, as well as the Gondwana Rainforests and various national parks in Queensland and New South Wales.

We've already said our piece on Byron Bay (#11) and Gold Coast (#15), two of the key stops along this route – if you do visit either of these places, consider pivoting from there into some of the other spots of interest along this route.

For example, west of Byron Bay begins a northward sequence consisting of Whian Whian State Conservation Area (home to Minyon Falls and countless hiking trails), Nightcap National Park (named after and containing the endangered Nightcap oak), and Mount Jerusalem National Park (rich in rivers and great for bird watching).

Dorrigo National Park deserves a special mention because of its popularity – boasting beautiful vistas and a slew of hiking spots, this park and its neighbors in New South Wales form the largest rainforest stretch in the world, the Gondwana Rainforests.

A prominent feature of the Rainforest Way is the Scenic Rim, a series of forested mountains belonging to the Great Dividing Range. While you can't go wrong with any of the parks or ranges here, some highlights include O'Reilley's Rainforest, Tamborine National Park & Mountain, and the Gallery Walk just off Gold Coast.

18. Darling River Drive: from Walgett to Wentworth

19 hours from Sydney (1,560 km)

If you'd be willing to commit to a longer drive, a road trip along Darling River, one of Australia's longest rivers, would make for quite a scenic travel experience across New South Wales.

First off, you'll want to get to the town of Walgett. The quickest way there from Sydney would be driving through Blue Mountains National Park, then following Castlereagh Highway and the B55 the rest of the way.

From Walgett, take Kamilaroi Highway to get to Bourke – be sure to stop at Brewarrina to check out its camping reserve by the Barwon River, which features beautiful, partially submerged trees. From Bourke, you can start following the Darling River.

Just outside of town is the Gondabooka National Park, which contains petroglyph art. In Louth, you could stop for the night at Trilby Station, or continue on forward to Tilpa – further down, you can check out the Paroo-Darling National Forest, which features red sands and the Peery Lake, which is a great bird watching spot with a free picnic area.

Menindee is the Darling riverside's oldest town, and the first to be inhabited by European settlers. Adjacent to the town is Kinchega National Park, featuring campgrounds and lovely river red gum trees.

Past the village of Pooncarie, you'll reach Mungo National Park, where the oldest human remains in all of Australia were found. In addition, the park is famous for the beautiful Walls of China, Lake Mungo, and over a dozen other ancient dry lakes.

The town of Wentworth marks the end of the route and the meeting point of the Darling and Murray Rivers - at this very point lies Junction Park, ideal for a riverside picnic. Also located in Wentworth are Australian Inland Botanic Gardens, which house lemon-scented gums and other trees that thrive in dry living conditions.

19. Tasmania

24 hours from Sydney (1,600 km)

Few places in Australia and beyond can compare to the rugged natural beauty of Tasmania, so this long and winding road trip is definitely worth considering.

The first step of the journey is to get to Melbourne, which we discussed above (#13). From there, take the Melbourne – Devonport ferry over to the island, which should take around 10 hours.

Tasmania's national parks are out of this world – for example, the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park features Mount Ossa (the highest in Tasmania), and Mount Pelions East and West. The highlight here, however, is the Overland Track, which connects its titular mountain and lake and amounts to one of the most scenic walks you'll ever take.

Freycinet National Park contains one of Australia's most beautiful bits of nature, and certainly the most beautiful spot between all the natural parks – Wineglass Bay. The arched beach, crystal-blue water, and green, sunny backdrop look amazing from any angle, and any elevation. Also worth noting is the park's unique 5-mountain granite range known as The Hazards.

Obviously, you'll also want to visit Hobart, the state capital. One thing that should immediately strike you about this city is the Victorian-era architecture – although many locals associate it with the country's dark history, it nonetheless creates a unique atmosphere for tourists and visitors.

Tasmania's most famous tourist attraction is definitely the Salamanca Market in Hobart. Every Saturday, thousands of tourists flock around the 300 stands, which sell everything from local food and wine to paintings and hand-made jewellery.

Even if you don't find museum trips particularly fun, the Museum of Old and New Art will definitely be of interest to you. Featuring a surface-level exterior and a burrowed interior, the museum's provocative art and unique ambient are bound to get a reaction out of you.

Besides the capital, Launceston is Tasmania's second-largest city and it houses a sizable chunk of the population. The best-known spots in town would be the scenic City Park, as well as the Cataract Gorge Reserve, an incredible river gorge less than a mile from the center of town.

20. Silver City Highway: from Buronga to Tibooburra

26 hours from Sydney (2,300 km)

If you prefer the thrill of a long, scenic trip over driving to reach a single final destination, the Silver City Highway is the ultimate Australia road trip for you.

At a staggering 683 kilometers, this highway connects the towns of Buronga and Tibooburra, located on opposite ends of New South Wales. The drive is different than most of the ones we've proposed so far, in that it has you driving through The Outback – petrol stops are scarce, so load up.

One of the earlier stops you can make is in the town of Wentworth, located at the junction of the Murray and the Darling – you can admire the beauty of the two rivers from Junction Park, and visit the Old Wentworth Gaol to learn what life was like for prisoners some 200 years ago.

Further north, next up is Broken Hill, also known as Silver City– this is a major player in Australia's mining industry, as reflected in the countless mine-themed museums and memorials.

For something that hits a bit closer to home, you can visit the Mad Max 2 Museum (you read that right) to pay tribute to one of Australia's greatest films, or check out the Living Sculptures, erected to act as guardians of the flora in the Living Desert.

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Sydney Itinerary: 4 Days In Sydney on a budget

How to travel to Sydney on a budget?

If you love traveling, Australia, or specifically Sydney, is undoubtedly on the list of the top must-visit destination. However, as you might be aware, Sydney, one of the most expensive cities in the world, can deter you from getting the most of this lovely city.

Read this Sydney Itinerary: 4 days travel to Sydney on a budget written by Trang Le – a travel lover currently living in Melbourne to find out all the answers.

You’ll find the best places to visit in Sydney, things to do in Sydney, and places to eat in Sydney in this article.

Summary of 4 days Sydney Itinerary

• Trip: Melbourne to Sydney Budget: 500 – 600AUD (flight ticket and accommodation, Adele concert ticket, eating, shopping, and transportation included)
• Length: 3 Full days and a half-day (4 nights at Hostel)
• Requirements: Walking ability + health conditions + Food sharing + Modest shopping + Early wake-up and the late comeback
• Places covered: Harbour area, CBD area (Shopping streets, Mary Cathedral, Sydney Tower, Queen Victoria Building, Hyde Park), The Rocks area, Royal Botanic Garden (Macquarie’s chair), Sydney Fish Market, The Star Casino, Darling Harbour, The Market City ( The paddy’s Market), The Melbourne Contemporary Museum, Harbour bridge walking (30-1 hour) Harbour night view, Manly Beach, Coogee to Bondi Beach walk ( 3-4 hours), The Rocks + the rocks Sunday market.
• Places I ate: It’s time for Thai food, Vietnamese Bread – Destination Roll, Peters Sydney Fish Market, Cafe Cre Asion, The Pancakes on The Rocks.
• The note includes my itinerary, my tips, my recommendations.
• Suitable for: travel on a budget, nature lovers, foodies.

Sydney Accommodation

Where to stay in Sydney on a budget?

I usually use booking.com to book accommodation while traveling. You can check Sydney budget accommodation with Booking.com or read reviews on Trip Advisors.

>>Read the best tips to book a perfect stay in Sydney .

Sydney Itinerary: Day 1

I flew from Melbourne to Sydney with the early morning flight at 8 am.

After arriving at the hostel around 10 am, I had my first breakfast in Sydney with Vietnamese bread at the store next to my hostel: 5.50$ for any rolls. It is quite good, and the price is affordable.

Free walking tour Sydney

Then, I went on a “Free walking tour – CBD Tour” from 2:30 pm until 5:00 pm and a “Free walking tour – The rocks” from 6 pm until 7:30 pm.

The ending point of the first tour is also the beginning of the 2nd one, which is in the Harbour area ( Circular Quay).

Harbour Area in Sydney

It was about less than 1 hour in between the tours. Therefore, you might walk around the Harbour area to Opera House and take some pictures with Harbour Bridge, Opera House, etc.

The tour covered all of the main iconic places in CBD Sydney, explained the history then gave some fun facts.

I recommend it for those interested in listening to stories and knowing more about what locals think.

My experience

I did enjoy it since it is free, and I haven’t joined any informative tours like this before. Especially there are so many places to go around Sydney, and you might spend a lot of money on transportation which can be made within walking distance.

I think the tour is perfect for people who are new to the city. You can have an overall review of all the places around CBD. Then you can come back later to any sites that you are interested in.

However, you shouldn’t go on the tour if you prefer walking randomly on your preferences. The journey is designed to briefly introduce the Main points in Sydney for you to come back later.

Foodie time: Thai food in Sydney

After finishing the tour, my friend and I decided to have a meal at a Halal Thai food restaurant named “It is time for Thai.”

It is also the place we ate on the last day in Sydney. Since she is a Muslim, we preferred eating here. So it is optional if you want to give it a try.

I think the “Green chicken curry with Roti” – 13.50$ and Tom Yum Kung are very delicious. I love the smell of coconut and the spicy, sour flavor for Tom Yum.

Some friends might know I am a spicy eater, but it is not that spicy, though. Therefore, I recommend them to those who are into Thai food and spicy food.

Sydney on a budget Itinerary: Day 2

Where is the best place to have breakfast on the first morning in Sydney?

Where to go in the beautiful and chilly weather to have another look at the harbor FREE and, more important, the best place to eat for lunchtime. Everything is included on the second day of the Sydney Itinerary.

Breakfast at The Cafe Cre Asion

Waking up at 7 am, I had breakfast at a cafe called “The Cafe Cre Asion,” which is just 5 minutes walking from my hostel.

I found this cafe with the highest reviews and ratings on the Zomato app, so I gave it a try.

I can say it is the most expensive breakfast that I ever had in my life. However, I think it is worth the money because the food is tasty and filling, so I didn’t feel hungry until dinner.

I ordered a “toast with peanut butter and avocados adding” and a “Carrot cake”: 16.50$ for everything.

A better option is to order a scrambled eggs toast, and matcha latte (only 5$) because it is the most popular drink here.

The Royal Botanic Garden

Then, I went to the Royal Botanic Garden by train from Museum station to Circular Quay, then walk to the place.

At first, I was a bit lost since the place I want to head to is located at a different gate, and the Garden is huge. Therefore, I needed to walk back to the main entrance at Macquarie St.

Free walking tour of Royal Botanic Garden

My friend and I registered for a free tour at the Tourist information booth in the Royal Botanic Garden at 10:30 am.

The tour took us 2 hours of walking around one little corner of the garden. The guide gave us a lot of information about different kinds of trees, history, and fun facts.

However, you might get bored since the tour is academic and biologically oriented.

I don’t recommend it if you are not interested in knowing about different plants, trees, and biology. You can spend time at your own pace walking around the garden, taking photos instead.

In the Royal Botanic Garden, you must go to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, where you can see both Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the right side. It is charming and scenic to view from this angle.

Sydney Seafood Market

Next, we want to have lunch at the Seafood Market, which is the most recommended place if you are a seafood lover.

You can find a variety of fresh and affordable seafood here. It is a bit expensive when coming to seafood eating.

After going around to different restaurants in the area, we decided to buy food from Peter’s. My friend ordered a set of Lobster combo: 42$.

The portion was too much for one person. Because there is only one lobster, it is unable for me to share with her.

I ordered a la carte: one chilly grilled prawn skewer, one mashed cheese oyster, and one grilled shrimp: 17.50$

Don’t order a big combo if you are unable to share it with anyone else. Better to choose a la carte to save money and try different dishes based on your interest.

Overall, it was a fascinating experience when eating and covering your hands above the food.

It’s because of the invasion of many birds flying around and start stealing your food.

However, I did enjoy eating there so much. We viewed the scene of the pier, boats, sky, and birds.

The Star Casino

After eating brunch ( and brunches for me ), we took the train to The Star Casino to get inside a bit.

Both of us are not good gamblers, so we are not willing to play any lots there. You should bring your passport or personal identification to be checked at the entrance.

We went inside for 10 mins, then went back and headed to the Darling Harbour on foot. ( 20 minutes on average – lazy pace).

The Darling Harbour

On the way, there are many benched so you can rest. The scenery is beautiful and worth taking pictures of.

After that, we walked back to the Central area, where I took the train to go to the ANZ Stadium concert to enjoy the Adele concert.

KOI dessert restaurant

My friend instead went to “KOI dessert restaurant,” which is a place of fine dining with very high rates of fancy eating.

You might be aware of your budget if you want to spend money on eating at this restaurant. It can cost you around 60-70$ for a set of 3 different kinds of deserts.

I don’t recommend it for those who are not into fine dining and not willing to overspend the budget.

Another option for a dessert restaurant for sweet-tooth people is: “One tea lounge grill” if you like Matcha and Japanese dessert.

I haven’t tried the food there, but one of my friends did, and she rated it very high.

Sydney Itinerary Budget Travel: Day 3

To me, traveling is not only getting the most for yourself but also for other people back home. Therefore, buying some souvenirs is always a MUST on our to-do list.

On the 3rd day, you can find where to go for budget shopping in Sydney. You can also find out how to spend the rest of the day viewing Sydney from a spectacular view.

The Market City

I went to Market City, which takes 10 mins to walk from my hostel, so I didn’t spend money on transportation.

You can buy different souvenirs there for friends and families. Since my weight for luggage is limited, I can’t buy many things.

In some shops, you may bargain to get a reasonable price. Just try to make a deal with the sellers to see if you can get an excellent price.

Instead, my friend went to the Glebe market to see the old stuff, and then we met up near my place. We went around that area to CBD, near Sydney Tower, shopping arcade, Commonwealth Bank building.

The Commonwealth Bank building

Here, I recommend going and see the Commonwealth Bank building, which is located on the street named Martin place.

It is the most expensive building in Sydney and is made of all marbles and very luxurious looking.

However, the bank only opens on weekdays so that we couldn’t go inside on Saturday. It was a bit regretful.

Around this area, you can find many brands stores such as Zara, Forever 21 ( which doesn’t have in Melbourne, as you may surprise).

After that, we went to the “Halal Chinese noodles bar” near George Street to have a meal.

My friend ordered a bowl of beef noodles, and the portion was a lot for her to finish, so I recommended ordering a smaller one or a la carte type of food to share with friends.

Then again, this eating place is optional since it is a Halal food restaurant. You can easily find many different restaurants in this area, such as Korean food, Thai food, or Japanese food.

Melbourne Contemporary Museum

After that, I went to the Melbourne Contemporary Museum and spent around 45 minutes there.

It closes at 5 pm, so you should come earlier. You might find it a bit deep and hard to understand the arts but still a pleasant experience.

Harbour Bridge

I went to the north side of the Harbour Bridge by train to Milsons Point Station. From there, I walked back to the Harbour area through the bridge.

As you may know, you can spend 200$ on climbing above the bridge, but I instead save it up by walking through and see the view from the height.

Many people are walking as well, and it wasn’t arduous to walk. The look of the Harbour from the Bridge is astounding and breathtaking.

It took me roughly 30 mins ( my speed one again ) to finish walking from the north side to the other end.

Then I kept continuing walking, following the path to Royal Botanic Garden, where I saw the whole harbor area from the height at a different angle.

You better cross the bridge during sunset time so that you can see the Sydney Opera House under the moonlight and skylight of sunset.

Or else, you should come to the Macquarie chair at the Royal Botanic Garden to see the view during the sunset.

However, you may be aware of the closing time, which is 5 pm.

I walked for the next 30 mins and then came back to the Opera House to enjoy the night view there.

It was so peaceful and romantic when sitting on the bench and looking at the view. You better grab some snacks and spend time there.

I went inside the Opera House to have a look and went to the famous toilet. Haha. It was beautiful and worth checking out if you may wish.

>> Check Sydney budget accommodation

Sydney on a budget Itinerary: Day 4

Here are more tips for Sydney on a budget! As you may know, transportation fare in Sydney is expensive. However, on Sunday you can get an excellent deal with only 2.50$ for all the places.

For that reason, we decided to go to Manly Beach from Circular Quay by ferry. Usually, it will cost you nearly 6$ one way for the ferry riding.

From Circular Quay to Manly Beach by ferry

To avoid crowding ( because Of the Sunday deal), we woke up early and hopped on the boat at 8:45 am. Still, there were already many people at that time.

It took us 30 minutes to reach Manly beach ( haha, now I know the reason for this funny name).

Manly Beach

We spent nearly 2 hours wandering around, taking photos, and having breakfast at a random restaurant.

It usually costs 10-15$, depending on your choice. However, I had butter, bread, and milk at the hostel to save money before going.

The beach is very stunning with high waves and many surfers who are very MANLY!!! 6 packs and fit body men are everywhere!!!

There are also some local markets where you can check out. At 11:30, we went back to Circular Quay to have lunch at “The pancakes on the rock” – 5 to 10 minutes walking from the Circular Quay.

On the way walking there, we came across The Rocks Sunday Market, which sold many different types of vintage products and stuff.

You also should have a look at them as well. Here is my friend wearing a supergiant hat selling there.

I came to the restaurant and needed to queue for around 5 minutes. However, you usually might be expected to wait for more since the restaurant is very famous!

We shared one of the recommended pancakes here: the “Devil Delight Berry Pancakes” – 13,50$.

The price varies from 10 to 30$, but the portion is rather large for Asian girls like us, by the way.

Review of the pancakes

I love the smell of it. It is not too sweet, and especially the pancake is very soft and hot inside. Tasty! I recommend the restaurant to everyone.

Since it opens 24-hours, you may come at a different time of the day.

You can find the Breakfast set on the menu, which is available all day, and the price is lower than the dinner set.

After around one hour having lunch there, we went back to Circular Quay and took the bus to Coogee Beach, where we walked from Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach.

From Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach

Typically, people walked from Bondi to Coogee. However, we want to catch the sunset moment at Bondi, so we did it reversely on purpose.

We started the walk at Coogee from 2:45 pm, and we reach North Bondi at 6 pm roughly.

On our walk, we stopped at different places to take photos, rest, drink water and go to the toilet as well.

I recommend those with good conditions and walking ability to do the walk because you can see all the breathtaking views of the ocean from the height.

It was such a fantastic experience that I have never had.

When we reached Bondi, we sat on the bench, waited for the sunset time, and then came back to the city center.

I don’t ask you to follow all the things I wrote here. If you want to follow, you may be aware of the health condition and some certain aspects.

I am a fast walker (maybe 2 or 3 times compared to an average pace, and all my friends say that ), so I obviously can save time and money by walking fast to different places.

Besides, I AM KINDA STRONG and furious, so you can feel tired and uncomfortable covering up all the places I went to. So, consider my note as helpful tips for your next trip.

I hope you enjoy reading it and please give it a comment or share as you wish to let me know you think it is helpful.

Due to the time limitation, I couldn’t go to several places as I want to go, like “The Blue Mountain,” “The Taronga Zoo,” “National royal park,”..etc. Maybe I will save it for another trip in the future. Who knows?

Pin it for later!

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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49 Comments

Great tips, bookmarked for if I ever make it to Sydney (especially the fried ice-cream)!

You will definitely love the fried ice-cream! Catch up on next posts in this series :)

I loved Sydney, though I am a Melbourne girl at heart! It’s definitely not easy to do on a budget, but you’ve got some great tips here!

Thanks a lot! I’m glad that you like the tips :)

Sydney has always been on my travel bucket list. I am definitely saving this post for future references. Thanks for sharing :-)

I’m glad that it’s useful :)

Darling harbour is a great place, lots of free festivals and events always happening on weekends.

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• Sydney Tourism
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• 4 Days In Sydney

Sydney Itinerary 4 Days

Popular 4-day 3-nights itineraries.

Are you creating Sydney 4-day 3-nights itinerary? Here are the most popular trip plans for 4 days in Sydney. Check out the favorite places among travelers around the world and add them to your itinerary.

Recent 4 Day Trip Plans for City

Check out these recently created 4-day Sydney trip plans by fellow travelers. Get a quick glimpse of the trending attractions, preferred hotels, and tours of Sydney.

4 Days in Sydney - Perfect Holiday Guide

Sun-kissed beaches, Michelin-star restaurants, spectacular skyscapes, well-kept public gardens, and Australia’s iconic landmarks await to give you a grand welcome at Sydney, one of Australia's largest cities. Look beyond the shiny arch of the Harbour Bridge and the gleaming silhouette of the Opera House illuminated against the backdrop of the city and you will find a much more vibrant and intriguing face of Sydney. Look at this Sydney Itinerary 4 Days to plan your trip better

How to see Sydney in 4 days?

Sightseeing.

Sydney Opera House , the icon of Sydney, is the city’s most famous structure. This sailboat-inspired structure features six theatre and music venues with first-rate acoustics and offers and sweeping views of Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge . The Sydney Harbour Bridge, also called the "Coathanger" by locals, is the world's largest steel arch bridge. Another iconic structure in Sydney, it lies next to the Opera House. Sydney Harbour, with its 150 miles of shoreline, is famous for the scenic ferry rides and the plenty of shops and restaurants to explore nearby. The buzzing pedestrian area of Darling Harbour is also equally famous. Housing attractions like the largest film screen in the world at the LG IMAX Theatre Sydney and Australian National Maritime Museum, it is a popular sightseeing spot in the city. Last but not the least, The Rocks  is a neighbourhood brimming with cobblestone streets and 19th century buildings. Housing various shops, pubs, restaurants and galleries, this too is worth a visit.

With soft white sand framing the dark blue waters of the ocean, Sydney is famous for its laid-back beaches which provide the perfect recreation as well as adventure opportunities. Famous of all its beaches is the iconic Bondi Beach. A nudist-friendly beach, this one is extremely popular among surfers. The Manly Beach located 10 miles northeast of downtown Sydney, is a sprawling shoreline which is always buzzing with locals as well as tourists. This beach too is famous among surfers due to the prime surfing waves. If you are looking for a quite beach to soak up the sunshine and relax, the Coogee Beach is your best bet. The fact that it also features cafes, shops, grills and beach volleyball courts makes it even more popular among visitors.

Food and Wine

Breweries and wineries can be found in plenty throughout Sydney. Embark upon food and wine trails in regional NSW, go restaurant-hopping to pamper your taste buds at the award-winning restaurants on Sydney Harbour, or let loose your inner foodie at the street food stalls at inner city neighbourhoods, such as Potts Point, Chippendale, Surry Hills and Newtown.

Nature and Wildlife

In addition to its iconic structures and modern buildings, Sydney is also famous for its abundant wildlife and greenery. The Royal Botanic Garden, full of colourful flora-fauna housed in sections like Palace Rose Garden and Latitude 23, is the perfect place to explore this abundant diversity. The Taronga Zoo, which is home to over 4,000 animals of 350 species, is also a great place to experience the wildlife in Sydney. If marine life is what fascinates you, head to the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium , which displays more than 13,000 individual fish and other sea and water creatures belonging to over 700 species and from most of Australia's water habitats.

Tours in Sydney Worth Adding to Your 4-Day Trip

The several attractions that Sydney offers will definitely add up to your experience. Hence, without any delay, book some interesting and fun tours such as

Best Hotels in Sydney for 4 Day Trip

These are some of the hotels added in the past by our travelers to their Sydney itinerary 4 days. Check out the hotels that suit you and add them to your trip plan.

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Looking for a Shorter Trip to Sydney

If you are looking for shorter itineraries, checkout Sydney itinerary 2 days or 3 days in Sydney . Get hints on planning your weekends or long breaks to enjoy the best of Sydney.

Looking for a Longer Itinerary to Sydney

Itinerary more than 4 days in Sydney can give you freedom to explore the city in detail. Taste the best of life at Sydney. You can explore city on your own or opt for some tours. Explore itineraries for longer holidays like 5 days in Sydney or 6 days in Sydney .

Ready to Plan a Sydney Itinerary 4 Days Now?

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A knife attack in Australia against a bishop and a priest is being treated as terrorism, police say

Australia Church Stabbings Security officers stand guard outside Orthodox Assyrian church in Sydney, Australia, Monday, April 15, 2024. Police in Australia say a man has been arrested after a bishop and churchgoers were stabbed in the church. There are no life-threatening injuries. (AP Photo/Mark Baker) (Mark Baker/AP)

SYDNEY — (AP) — Australian police say a knife attack in Sydney that wounded a bishop and a priest during a church service as horrified worshippers watched online and in person, and sparked a riot was an act of terrorism.

Police arrested a 16-year-old boy Tuesday after the stabbing at Christ the Good Shepherd Church that injured Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel and a priest. Both are expected to survive.

New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb said the suspect’s comments pointed to a religious motive for the attack.

“We’ll allege there’s a degree of premeditation on the basis that this person has travelled to that location, which is not near his residential address, he has travelled with a knife and subsequently the bishop and the priest have been stabbed,” Webb said. “They’re lucky to be alive.”

The teenager was known to police but was not on a terror watch list, Webb said.

The Australian Security Intelligence Organization, the nation's main domestic spy agency, and Australian Federal Police had joined state police in a counter-terrorism task force to investgate who else was potentially involved.

ASIO director-general Mike Burgess said the investigation had yet to uncover any associated threats.

"It does appear to be religiously motivated, but we continue our lines of investigation," Burgess said.

“Our job is to look at individuals connected with the attacker to assure ourselves that there is no-one else in the community with similar intent. At this stage, we have no indications of that,” Burgess added.

On ASIO's advice, the risk of a terrorist attack in Australia is rated at “possible.” That is the second lowest level after “not expected” on the five-tier National Terrorism Threat Advisory System.

The boy had been convicted in January of a range of offenses including possession of a switch blade knife, being armed with a weapon with an intention to commit an indictable offence, stalking, intimidation and damaging property, Australian Broadcasting Corp. reported.

A Sydney court released him on a good behavior bond, the ABC reported.

The boy had also used a switch blade, which is an illegal weapon in Australia, in Monday’s attack, the ABC reported.

Juvenile offenders cannot be publicly identified in New South Wales state.

In response to the attack, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said “there is no place for violence in our community. There’s no place for violent extremism.”

The Christ the Good Shepherd in suburban Wakeley streams sermons online and worshippers watched as a person in black clothes approached the altar and stabbed the bishop and priest Isaac Royel during a church service Monday evening before the congregation overpowered him, police said.

A crowd of hundreds seeking revenge gathered outside the Orthodox Assyrian church, hurling bricks and bottles, injuring police officers and preventing police from taking the teen outside, officials said.

The teen suspect and at least two police officers were also hospitalized, Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Andrew Holland told journalists.

Paramedics treated 30 patients, with seven taken to hospitals, NSW Ambulance commissioner Dominic Morgan said.

“This was a rapidly evolving situation where the crowds went from 50 to a number of hundreds of people in a very rapid period of time,” Morgan said.

“Our paramedics became directly under threat ... and had to retreat into the

church,” Morgan added.

The church in a message on social media said the bishop and priest were in stable condition and asked for people’s prayers. “It is the bishop’s and father’s wishes that you also pray for the perpetrator,” the statement said.

Holland commended the congregation for subduing the teen before calling police. When asked if the teen's fingers had been severed, he said the hand injuries were “severe.”

More than 100 police reinforcements arrived before the teen was taken from the church in the hours-long incident. Several police vehicles were damaged, Holland said.

“A number of houses have been damaged. They've broken into a number of houses to gain weapons to throw at the police. They've thrown weapons and items at the church itself. There were obviously people who wanted to get access to the young person who caused the injuries to the clergy people,” he said.

Australians were still in shock after a lone assailant stabbed six people to death in a Sydney shopping mall on Saturday and injured more than a dozen others.

Holland suggested the weekend attack heightened the community's response to the church stabbing.

“Given that there has been incidents in Sydney the last few days with knives involved, obviously there’s concerns,” he said. “We’ve asked for everyone to think rationally at this stage. "

The church said in a statement on Tuesday the 53-year-old Iraq-born bishop’s condition was “improving.”

Emmanuel has a strong social media following and is outspoken on a range of issues. He proselytizes to both Jews and Muslims and is critical of liberal Christian denominations.

He also speaks out on global political issues and laments the plight of Palestinians in Gaza.

The bishop, described in local media as a figure sometimes seen as divisive on issues such as COVID-19 restrictions, was in national news last year with comments about gender.

A video posted in May 2023 by the ABC about a campaign targeting the LGBTQ+ community showed the bishop in a sermon saying that “when a man calls himself a woman, he is neither a man nor a woman, you are not a human, then you are an it. Now, since you are an it, I will not address you as a human anymore because it is not my choosing, it your choosing.”

McGuirk reported from Melbourne, Australia.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Pro-Palestinian demonstrators shut down airport highways and key bridges in major US cities

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators have blocked freeways and bridges in Illinois, California, New York and the Pacific Northwest, temporarily shutting down travel into Chicago O’Hare International Airport, onto the Golden Gate and Brooklyn bridges and on a ...

CHICAGO -- Pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked roadways in Illinois, California, New York and the Pacific Northwest on Monday, temporarily shutting down travel into some of the nation's most heavily used airports, onto the Golden Gate and Brooklyn bridges and on a busy West Coast highway.

In Chicago, protesters linked arms and blocked lanes of Interstate 190 leading into O'Hare International Airport around 7 a.m. in a demonstration they said was part of a global “economic blockade to free Palestine,” according to Rifqa Falaneh, one of the organizers.

Traffic in the San Francisco Bay Area was snarled for hours as demonstrators shut down all vehicle, pedestrian and bike traffic on the Golden Gate Bridge and chained themselves to 55-gallon drums filled with cement across Interstate 880 in Oakland. Protesters marching into Brooklyn blocked Manhattan-bound traffic on the Brooklyn Bridge. In Eugene, Oregon, protesters blocked Interstate 5, shutting down traffic on the major highway for about 45 minutes.

Protesters say they chose O’Hare in part because it is one of the largest airports. Among other things, they’ve called for an immediate cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas.

Anti- war protesters have demonstrated in Chicago near daily since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people. Israeli warplanes and ground troops have since conducted a scorched-earth campaign on the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli offensive has killed more than 33,700 Palestinians, according to the Gaza health ministry. The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants in its count but says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

O'Hare warned travelers on the social platform X to take alternative forms of transportation with car travel “substantially delayed this morning due to protest activity.”

Some travelers stuck in standstill traffic left their cars and walked the final leg to the airport along the freeway, trailing their luggage behind them.

Among them was Madeline Hannan from suburban Chicago. She was headed to O'Hare for a work trip to Florida when her and her husband's car ended up stalled for 20 minutes. She got out and “both ran and speed walked” more than a mile (1.6 kilometers). She said she made it to the gate on time, but barely.

“This was an inconvenience,” she said in a telephone interview from Florida. “But in the grand scheme of things going on overseas, it’s a minor inconvenience.”

While individual travelers may have been affected, operations at the airport appeared near normal with delays of under 15 minutes, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation.

Inbound traffic toward O’Hare resumed around 9 a.m.

Near Seattle, the Washington State Department of Transportation said a demonstration closed the main road to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Social media posts showed people holding a banner and waving Palestinian flags while standing on the highway, which reopened about three hours later.

About 20 protesters were arrested at the Golden Gate Bridge demonstration and traffic resumed shortly after noon, according to the California Highway Patrol. The agency said officers were making arrests at two points on the interstate, including one spot where roughly 300 protesters refused orders to disperse,

“Attempting to block or shut down a freeway or state highway to protest is unlawful, dangerous, and prevents motorists from safely reaching their destinations,” the agency said in a statement.

Oregon State Police said 52 protestors were were arrested for disorderly conduct following the Interstate 5 protest in Eugene, Oregon, about 110 miles (177 kilometers) south of Portland. Six vehicles were towed from the scene.

New York Police made numerous arrests, saying 150 protesters were initially involved in the march around 3:15 p.m., but that number quickly grew. The bridge was fully reopened by 5 p.m.

In Chicago, dozens of protesters were arrested, according to Falaneh. Chicago police said Monday that “multiple people” were taken into custody after a protest where people obstructed traffic, but they did not have a detailed count.

Associated Press writers Janie Har in San Francisco, Claire Rush in Portland, Oregon; Pat Eaton-Robb in Hartford, Connecticut and Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu contributed to this report.

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