trip to sydney

Plan Your Trip to Sydney: Best of Sydney Tourism

Travel Advice

Essential sydney.

How to do Sydney in 3 days

Dig into Sydney and beyond

Itineraries from real travelers

What to see and do, from people who have been there.

You don’t want to miss these saltwater pools in Sydney

Browse collections

Get your adrenaline pumping.

See nature do its thing

A taste of Sydney

All ages welcome

Raise a glass

More places to feel the “bright lights, big city” energy

Sydney Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing sydney.

Susan Mills

Sydney has a fantastic public transport system complete with friendly staff to guide you in the right direction. Use the bus, train, or ferry to get where you need to be. The city itself, though it can be hilly, is great for walking.

Download Tripview App to your smartphone for the latest public transport schedule.

Africa Tourist

Australians do not tip. People working in service industries are well paid by world standards, and so do not feel obligated to tip.

Sydney has a lot of wonderful places to visit that suit all ages and tastes. It has one of the most beautiful harbours in the world with the Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Sydney Opera House as the main focal points. The Blue Mountains are a three-hour train ride and is well worth a visit.

2gnomesinparis

Sydney is a beautiful city to explore. The harbour is so pretty with lots to do. There are many things to see and do around Sydney as well as wonderful shopping. The cafes and restaurants are amazing! Easy to get around, you can walk to most things. Our amazing beaches are a short bus or ferry ride from the city. Kids will love the zoo and the view over the harbour from the zoo is to die for! The air is clean, the sky is blue, the harbour is magnificent!

Sydney has become a cosmopolitan city compared favorably with other great cities of the world. Centered around its magnificent harbour, there are many attractions and experiences to be enjoyed.

What is the best way to get there?

Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) is Australia’s busiest airport, with daily flights to/from major global destinations on dozens of airlines.

Do I need a visa?

All visitors (except New Zealand citizens), require a temporary visa to visit Sydney. Visit the  Australian Government Department of Home Affairs  for visa information.

When is the best time to visit?

March to May: The best times to visit Sydney are between March and May and September and November. You’ll find more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds — which means you can likely nab better prices on airfare, too.

But if you want to warm up with the masses from winter back home, the average daily temperatures in January can hit highs of 30°C/86°F and lows around 20°C/67°F.

Public Transit

Sydney has a great public transportation network. Be sure to download the  TripView app  for train, ferry, bus and light rail schedules.

Buying an Opal Card is another must for getting around Sydney as it’s the easiest way to pay for public transit. For more info, visit  here .

The Sydney Metro system is still under construction, but it currently has one line running from Chatswood to Tallawong. You can also get local and regional train service on NSW TrainLink and Sydney Trains to/from Central Station.

There are two tram lines in Sydney that can also get you around town.

Sydney’s massive bus network operates until midnight usually, and there are many hubs around the city.

The nine routes of Sydney Ferries are a great way to get around and see the city.

Though traffic can be intense, Sydney has bike lanes and many bike-rentals companies.

Taxis are readily available in Sydney for hailing and booking via the NSW Taxi Council .

Uber can be booked via its app on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Australian Eastern

What are the voltage/plug types?

220-240 volts AC

What is the currency?

Australian dollar

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, how much do i tip.

Tipping is not expected in Australia, however, a tip for exceptional service is always appreciated.

Restaurants/bars

Again, it’s not customary, but you can add between 5 and 10% if you are super happy.

A few AUDs would be appreciated for anyone who helps with your bags and the housekeeping staff.

Rounding up to the nearest AUD is typical.

Tour guides

If your guide was particularly fun or interesting, 10 AUD would suffice.

Are there local customs I should know?

The legal drinking age in Sydney is 18.

Handshakes are a customary greeting in Sydney.

Public transit

Offer your seat to people who are old, pregnant or have mobility issues.

• Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
• Shangri-La Sydney
• Little National Hotel Sydney
• InterContinental Sydney, an IHG Hotel
• Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay
• Harvest Buffet Sydney
• AALIA Restaurant Sydney
• Cafe Sydney
• Fish At The Rocks
• Sydney Opera House
• Manly Beach
• Bondi Beach
• Queen Victoria Building (QVB)
• Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
• Small Group Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney with Scenic World
• Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney Including Scenic World
• Blue Mountains Small-Group Tour from Sydney with Scenic World,Sydney Zoo & Ferry
• Blue Mountains: Three Sisters, Scenic World and Wildlife park
• Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour

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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22 Best Things to Do in Sydney

By Sophie Davies

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

Click the link to read our complete Sydney destination guide .

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

Bondi Beach Arrow

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

Sydney Opera House Arrow

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

Yum Cha at Fisherman's Wharf Seafood Restaurant Arrow

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

Surry Hills Arrow

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

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Wylie’s Baths Arrow

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

Art Gallery NSW Arrow

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

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk Arrow

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

The Rocks Arrow

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

Sydney Harbour Bridge Arrow

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

White Rabbit Gallery Arrow

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

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Arrow

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

Manly Beach Arrow

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

Bangarra Dance Theatre Arrow

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

Taronga Zoo Sydney Arrow

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

Cockatoo Island Arrow

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

Sydney Living Museums Arrow

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

Golden Age Cinema and Bar Arrow

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

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia Arrow

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

Carriageworks Farmers Market Arrow

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

Camp Cove Arrow

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

The Intersection Paddington Arrow

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

Australian Museum Arrow

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

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The Only Guide You Need to Sydney — Great Eats, Idyllic Beaches, and Luxury Hotels Included

Visit Sydney for an unforgettable adventure. Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with this Sydney travel guide.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Famously photogenic Sydney is Australia's largest city and the capital of New South Wales, the country's most visited state.

The traditional home of the Gadigal people of the Eora Aboriginal Nation, Sydney has evolved from a humble British penal colony founded in 1788 to a thriving port city.

Today, nearly half of Sydney's residents, known as "Sydneysiders," were born overseas. The city’s rich cultural makeup is now reflected in its diverse food scene, where just about every major international cuisine is represented in increasingly creative ways.

Among the city's most recognizable attractions are the iconic Sydney Opera House, with its distinctive white "sails," and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, affectionately known as the "coat hanger." But there is plenty more to love about this showstopping waterside metropolis.

Sydney's moderate climate and variety of beaches and parks make it ideal for outdoor activities, and an ever-expanding roster of luxury hotels offer plenty of options to lay your head at the end of each day.

Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) UTC/GMT +10 hours From approximately October through March — Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT) UTC/GMT +11

Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere, with opposite seasons to the Northern Hemisphere. Among the best times to visit Sydney for weather are the months of October and November (late spring) or March and April (early autumn) when temperatures are comfortable and the humidity is lower.

The peak times for tourism and the warmest weather are the summer months of December through February. Crowds peak between Christmas and the end of January during the summer school and university holidays. Naturally, prices are higher during this season, but it's ideal  beach weather, with popular festivals and events including the month-long Sydney Festival in January, and the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade in February.

The low season — May through August — is chillier and prices are lower. It's still a pleasant time to be in Sydney, and the excellent Vivid Sydney festival lights up the city with creative energy in May and June. The Sydney Film Festival is held in June, and the Bondi Festival in July

Currency: Australian Dollar AUD

Language: English

Calling Code: +61

Electricity: The plug is Type I, with three flat pins in a triangular pattern. Australia uses 220-240 volts (U.S. is 120 volts), so a converter may be needed for certain devices.

Sydney's long-running obsession with artisan coffee makes it easy to find a perfect brew. Some claim the flat white (espresso with steamed milk and only a thin layer of cream) was first served in Sydney.

In general, visitors will find that prices are high in Australia compared to the U.S. (outside New York City, at least), including in Sydney. However, tipping is not customary or expected in Australia where tax and service are included in the bill by law, and minimum wages are higher than in the U.S. For excellent service in restaurants, taxis, hotels, and tours, you may wish to add 10-20 percent as a "thank you."

Retailers that sell alcoholic beverages in Australia are called "bottle shops," and a standard glass of beer is called a "schooner." Smoking is banned in all indoor public spaces and certain outdoor areas, including beaches, national parks, and public transport stops.

Sydney has some of the world’s best tap water; plastic bottled water is available, but frowned upon.

Currently being redeveloped into Australia’s premier destination for all things seafood, the Sydney Fish Market (due to open in 2024) remains operational, featuring seafood retailers, restaurants, and cooking classes.

The Opal card can be used on all public transport, including trains, ferries, buses, and light rail.

Sydney Buses : Buses connect all areas of the city, including those without rail or ferry transport. NightRide services replace most train routes between midnight and 4 a.m.

Sydney Trains : Six of Sydney’s eight trains run through the city center, including the line to Sydney Airport . The main terminus for local and regional trains is Central Station at Railway Square. Maps and timetables are available at Transport NSW .

Regional Trains : Departing from Central Station, regional trains and coaches service destinations that include the NSW South Coast, Blue Mountains, and Central Coast.

Sydney Light Rail : Sydney’s three light rail lines run through the city center, providing easy access to Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, and beyond.

Sydney Ferries : From Circular Quay ferry terminal in the CBD, ferries offer a scenic and convenient option for traveling to Manly Beach, Taronga Zoo, and attractions beyond.

River Ferry : The river ferry travels up the Parramatta River, from Circular Quay to Parramatta, with stops that include Sydney Olympic Park.

Taxis and Ride-share Services : Silver Service taxis offer premium rides, and Uber and Ola operate ride-sharing services in Sydney.

The Langham, Sydney

Address: 89-113 Kent St., Millers Point NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9256 2222 Website

Set in the heart of The Rocks district among historic cobbled streets, this romantic property features an indoor pool, spa, and several dining venues. Some rooms even offer expansive terraces and views of the harbor or city skyline. Pets also receive five-star service, with dog walking and pet sitting available.

Capella Sydney

Address: 35-39 Bridge St. Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 9071 5090 Website

Sydney’s first major hotel opening of 2023, Capella has transformed the CBD’s historic Department of Education building into one of the city’s finest luxury hotels, its golden sandstone facade now complemented by the elegance of 192 guest rooms and suites across eight levels. Anchored by three ground-level food and beverage offerings, including signature restaurant Brasserie 1930, the hotel also gives guests exclusive access to its dreamy Auriga Spa. 

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Address: 6 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011, Australia Phone: +61 2 9331 9000 Website

Located on the historic Finger Wharf in Sydney’s inner Eastern Suburbs, this luxury hotel embraces color and convenience in equal measure, with a long list of complimentary perks such as breakfast, the first round of sunset drinks, all-day snacks, and self-service laundry. Even the in-room minibar is included. An attractive range of perks are on offer at the brand’s similarly modern Darling Harbour outpost, The Woolstore 1888.

InterContinental Sydney

Address: 117 Macquarie St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9253 9000 Website

Reopened in 2022 following a major refurbishment, this elegant hotel set in the Circular Quay area’s former Treasury Building isn’t only worth staying in for its superb Sydney Harbour and Royal Botanic Garden views. Freshened up with a palette of soothing marine tones, its 509 rooms and 28 suites are chic, complemented by a club lounge and an array of new drinking and dining options.

Ace Hotel Sydney

Address: 47-53 Wentworth Ave., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 8099 8799 Website

The urban-cool hotel brand’s first property south of the equator, the 18-story Ace Hotel Sydney opened in 2022, occupying a historic former brick factory on the eastern fringe of the CBD. A warm color scheme plays into the property's nostalgic vibe and gives a sense of coziness to its 257 rooms, replete with ochre-toned carpets paying homage to the Australian outback. Edgy art pops in public spaces — among them a rooftop bar and restaurant Kiln, which boasts stellar Sydney skyline views.   

Pier One, Sydney Harbour

Address: 11 Hickson Rd., Walsh Bay NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 8298 9999 Website

Right on Sydney Harbour near the southern pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this dog-friendly hotel offers a front-row seat to the action on the harbor as ferries and yachts zip past at close range. A major renovation completed in 2019 celebrates the historic building’s heritage with its stylish maritime theme. The hotel’s 189 rooms include the luxe Admiral Suite, complete with a private deck and a freestanding tub with water views.

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Address: 199 George St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9250 3100 Website

Conveniently located in the CBD at the gateway to The Rocks and Circular Quay, this 517-room hotel has also been freshly renovated; its uncluttered, contemporary-classic upgrade playing a chic supporting role to superb city and Sydney Harbour views. The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney also has a gym, outdoor pool, and an Endota Spa. Dining options include a decadent afternoon tea served at the property's modern Australian signature restaurant, Mode Kitchen & Bar.

Lankan Filling Station

Address: 58 Riley St., Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia Phone: +61 2 8542 9936 Website

This casual Sri Lankan restaurant is beloved for its fragrant curries, spicy sambals, and signature hoppers — a type of bowl-shaped pancake, perfect for dipping. Book ahead for the crab curry feast on the last Sunday of every month, served with a lip-smacking selection of sides. Walk-in tables are available.but it’s worth making a reservation to avoid disappointment.

Address: 23-33 Mary St., Surry Hills Sydney NSW 2010 Phone: +61 2 8204 0800 Website

Fine dining fueled by fire is the name of the game at Firedoor, one of just four Sydney restaurants awarded three hats (Australia’s version of the Michelin star) in 2023. A five-course, daily-changing affair, the menu could feature anything from kangaroo to coral trout, with top-shelf Australian produce cooked to perfection using only a wood-fired oven, grill, or wood-burning hearth — there is no gas or electricity in the kitchen. The drinks list is also infused with smoky flavors

Address: 268 Oxford St., Paddington, Sydney NSW 2021, Australia Phone: 0423 015 032 Website

As its name suggests, this lively bistro located above a neighborhood bottle shop celebrates pork in every way, with a menu revolving around an entire Berkshire or Duroc pig broken down into an array of French-inspired dishes. However, a raft of other proteins — from seafood to duck — are also featured on the daily-changing menu, complemented by a French-leaning wine list. It's open Thursday through Sunday (lunch on weekends only), and reservations are recommended.

Address: 1 Temperance Ln., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9062 8565 Website

A delicious fusion of Latin flavors and Australian produce, this moody, subterranean restaurant carries Mexican food into date-night territory with its menu of share-style dishes, from local salmon ceviche tacos to melt-in-your-mouth NSW lamb shoulder parrilla . Fresh and fruity cocktails are elevated by one of Australia’s largest collections of tequila and mezcal.

Address: 3 Bridge Ln., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9114 7317 Website

Some of the city’s finest Cantonese food isn’t found in Chinatown, but in the heart of the CBD at Mr. Wong. That the 240 seats at this restaurant are rarely bare is testament to its enduring popularity, particularly at lunchtime, when beautifully crafted dim sum are the go-to for foodies and the power-lunching set alike.

Address: Shop 3 2-12 Angel Pl., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 8964 3062 Website

When only pasta will do, tiny, tucked-away Italian diner Ragazzi hits the spot with its daily-changing menu of delectable handcrafted pasta dishes, which might include a perfectly executed spaghetti cacio e pepe or a fragrant conchiglie with mussels, white beans, fennel, and saffron. Snack on starters such as 'nduja and mozzarella croquettes and stay for dolci and a digestivo .

Sydney's National Parks

Sydney is surrounded by some of the state’s most spectacular national parks — notably the coastal Royal National Park to the south and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to the northwest, both laced with walking and biking trails and dotted with Aboriginal rock engravings and remote beaches. To the west is the UNESCO-listed Blue Mountains National Park, where hiking trails weave past gushing waterfalls, while Sydney Harbour National Park protects the islands and foreshore of Sydney Harbour.

Sydney Opera House

Address: 110 Elizabeth St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9250 7111 Website

Fresh from a multimillion-dollar renovation to celebrate its 50th birthday in 2023, this unique building hosts music, theater, dance, and opera performances. First opened in 1973, the UNESCO World Heritage Site can also be visited on a range of tours. There are also several dining options here, including the lauded fine-dining restaurant Bennelong.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Address: Mrs. Macquaries Rd. Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9231 8111 Website

The oldest botanic garden in Australia, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney was founded in 1816 and showcases more than 8,600 species from Australia and beyond within its 74 acres of gardens. Restaurants include the recently renovated Botanic House, with picnic boxes also available to enjoy alfresco.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

The iconic bridge straddling Sydney Harbour is one of the world's largest steel arch bridges. Admire it from a distance, walk across it for free, or climb it to savor a bird's-eye view of Sydney.

Indigenous Experiences

The story of Sydney goes back tens of thousands of years before British colonization, and visitors will find plenty of opportunities to connect with this rich heritage. Ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge with an Indigenous storyteller guide on the Burrawa Climb, or step back in time on a walking tour of The Rocks with Dreamtime Southern X. Learn about traditional uses for native plants on an Aboriginal-guided tour of the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, or gain more insight into the Australian Museum’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collections during a tour with a First Nations guide. All of these activities form part of Discover Aboriginal Experiences, a flagship suite of immersive Indigenous-guided activities.

Museums and Galleries

Sydney is packed with excellent museums and galleries — notably the Art Gallery of NSW, which opened a major extension in late 2022 that has almost doubled its exhibition space. In Circular Quay, the Museum of Contemporary Art is Australia’s leading space dedicated to the genre, while the Museum of Sydney preserves the stories of the city’s colonial heritage.

Sydney's Beaches

Ana Alarcon/Travel + Leisure

Bondi might be the best known of Sydney's beaches, but more than 100 strips of sand line the city’s coastline and harbor. Cross Sydney Harbour to dive into popular Manly Beach, and enjoy some of the city's best coastal views on the 3.7-mile Bondi to Coogee walk . Be mindful that Sydney’s beautiful beaches can be deceptively dangerous; stay safe by swimming between the flags on lifeguard-patrolled beaches.

Westfield Sydney

Address: Corner Pitt St. Mall and Market Street Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 8236 9200 Website

Westfield Bondi Junction may be larger, but most visitors will find Westfield Sydney to be a more convenient place to shop for designer and high-street fashion, beauty, sportswear, and tech, with brands such as Chanel, Miu Miu, Nike, and Zara, as well as Australian labels like Aje, Zimmermann, Scanlan Theodore, and Aesop. The sleek shopping center, also home to a handful of dining options, spills out into the Pitt Street Mall retail area.

David Jones

Address: 86-108 Castlereagh St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 133 357 Website

Connected to Westfield Sydney is the flagship store of Australia's leading premium retailer, which first opened its doors in 1927. Browse clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry by international and Australian designers, as well as homewares, food, personal care products, and more.

Address: Oxford St., Paddington Sydney NSW 2021, Australia

In Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, the Paddington end of Oxford Street has long been a go-to destination for Australian designer fashion labels. Its main hub is The Intersection (of Oxford Street and Glenmore Road), home to brands such as Bassike, Camilla and Marc, Dion Lee, Rachel Gilbert, Zimmermann, and more. Other notable boutiques on the strip include Parlour X and resin jewelry and homewares specialists Dinosaur Designs.

Address: 1 Dalgal Wy., Forest Lodge NSW 2037, Australia Phone: +61 2 9049 8885 Website

This artisan produce and dining district, set in the former Rozelle Tram Depot dating to 1904, houses restaurants and food and drink vendors. It also hosts a boutique growers market on Sundays.

Queen Victoria Building

Address: 455 George St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Phone: +61 2 9264 9209 Website

Set in an elegant 1898 building, thi CBD shopping venue includes high-fashion brands like Coach, Furla, and Bally, as well as toys, books, and homewares. Australian brands include Hunter's Cashmere Collection, Cue, and R. M. Williams for handcrafted footwear and accessories. Check out dining venues such as the Tea Room QVB, where you can channel your inner Victorian-era aristocrat over high tea.

The Rocks and Circular Quay : Sydney’s first neighborhood, The Rocks still features cobblestone streets and plenty of colonial-era buildings, among them several characterful pubs. Adjoining this historic area, the buzzy ferry hub of Circular Quay is home to the Sydney Opera House and Museum of Contemporary Art.

Darling Harbour : This waterside neighborhood — home to the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Imax, Madame Tussauds, Australian National Maritime Museum, and a variety of dining and entertainment options — is ideal for families. A number of Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruises depart from here, too.

Central Business District (CBD) : Skyscrapers shoot upwards from the heart of the city, also home to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and the lion’s share of Sydney’s art galleries, museums, theaters, and hotels. Previously not much of a culinary destination, the area’s bars and restaurants are now among the city’s best.

Eastern Suburbs : Stretching from the eastern edge of the CBD to the golden sands of Bondi Beach, Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs are dotted with some of the city's finest restaurants, with key dining and nightlife neighborhoods including Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Potts Point, and Bondi Beach.

Northern Beaches : The scenic 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly, at the southern tip of the city's Northern Beaches, is a quintessential Sydney experience (whale sightings are common during the winter months). Manly is also the dining and nightlife hub of the Northern Beaches, which stretches for more than 18 miles, ending at Palm Beach.

Sydney has a humid subtropical climate, with rain spread fairly evenly through the year for a total annual rainfall of about 47 inches. In general, the weather is mild.

Summer (December-February) temperatures reach the high 70s, with humidity in the 60 to 70 percent range. Autumn (March-May) sees less humidity and comfortable temperatures. In winter (June-August), temperatures fall as low as the mid-40s and rainfall is higher. Spring (September-November) becomes warmer with less humidity than summer.

July is the coolest month, and January is generally the hottest. August and September are the driest months of the year.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month:

January 67°F - 80°F February 67°F - 80°F March 65°F - 77°F April 59°F - 73°F May 53°F - 68°F June 49°F - 64°F July 47°F- 63°F August 48°F - 65°F September 53°F - 70°F October 57°F - 74°F November 61°F - 75°F December 65°F - 78°F

Opal : The city's contactless smart card ticketing system for public transportation in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, the Hunter Valley, and the Illawarra. Add value to the card and use it to pay your fares (or make contactless payments with your credit or debit card). iOs | Android

AnyTrip : Lets you track public transport vehicles in real time with a live map. It also shows upcoming departures from a variety of stations. iOs | Android

Citymapper : This multimodal trip planner checks nearby departures in real time and finds the fastest route combining metro, train, bus, ferry, light rail, taxi, car share, walking, or cycling. iOs | Android

Transit : Plan a trip with real-time data and next departures from your current location, locate nearby Uber drivers, get pickup time estimates, and book through the app. iOs | Android

Moovit : Combines real-time data from Transport NSW with live information from the user community, giving fastest routes, stops along the way, and alerts when your stop is approaching. iOs | Android

Maps.Me: Download a map of Sydney to use offline. It's particularly handy for walking trails. iOs | Android

Uber : For airport pickup, local rides, or 30-day advance reservations. iOs | Android

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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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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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Your Trip to Sydney: The Complete Guide

Visitors are drawn to Sydney's sandy beaches, glittering harbor, and buzzing restaurants. Read on for our guide to everything you should know when visiting Sydney for the first time.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Sydney is at its best in spring (September to November) and fall (March to May), thanks to pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (December to February) is peak season, with temperatures hitting 95 degrees F or higher.

Language: Australia has no official language, but English is spoken almost everywhere. In 2014, nearly 40 percent of locals also spoke a non-English language at home, with large Mandarin-, Cantonese-, and Arabic-speaking populations. More than 100 Indigenous Australian languages are also spoken throughout the country  , though many are considered in danger of disappearing.

Currency: The Australian dollar (AUD) is the national currency   . It tends to fluctuate between $0.60 and $0.70 USD and is used everywhere.

Getting Around: Sydney's transportation network is extensive but complex. The trains are useful if you're traveling within the city center or towards the south or west, while buses cover most of the east and north. Ferries come in handy when crossing the harbor. All rides can be paid for with an Opal card, or you can use an American Express, Mastercard, or Visa credit or debit card, or a linked device instead. (Remember to tap on and off, whichever card you use.) Taxis and ride-sharing services are another option.

Travel Tip: This beachside city wakes up early, with locals heading to the beach or the park before work. Many cafés open around 7 a.m., though they serve breakfast all day, and shops generally open at 9 a.m. At the end of the day, shops close between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. every day except Thursday, when most stay open to 9 p.m. for late-night shopping. The majority of restaurants close the kitchen before 10 p.m., so make sure to do your research if you're heading out for a late dinner.

Things to Do

Sydney's beaches are famously unbeatable, but its restaurants, museums, and parks are world-class too. If you're in need of a natural escape, the city is surrounded by national parks full of walking tracks, secret beaches, and picnic areas.

• Explore Sydney's coastline, starting early with the 3.7-mile Bondi to Coogee coastal walk . Then, grab a flat white and smashed avocado on toast at Barzura (or one of the other great cafes in the Eastern Suburbs) before cooling off with a swim at the beach.
• See the city's iconic landmarks up close by climbing the Harbour Bridge and going inside the Opera House for a performance or a tour. Both experiences offer the chance to learn about Sydney's history and architecture, while enjoying incredible views of the harbor.
• Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Museum of Contemporary Art , the Art Gallery of NSW , and the White Rabbit gallery of contemporary Chinese art.

What to Eat and Drink

Sydney's dining and small bar scenes have taken off over the past decade, combining influences from around the globe to create a unique and modern Australian perspective.

Sydney's food is defined by two factors: its close links with Asia and its proximity to the ocean. Eat your way through the freshest seafood and local produce in the inner city neighborhoods of Haymarket, Sydney's Chinatown, and Surry Hills. Have yum cha for brunch at least once, and visit the Sydney Fish Market for affordable and high-quality shellfish.

Nightlife in Australia's biggest city has undergone a transformation over the past five years. Due to regulations that were introduced in 2014   , bars and clubs in many areas could not welcome party-goers past 1:30 a.m., forcing some venues out of business. As a result, the decrease in large, late-night partying in the city center has shifted nightlife culture towards trendy small bars in Bondi, Newtown, Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, and the Rocks. In January 2020, the government repealed lockout laws across the CBD , though lockout laws are still in effect in Kings Cross.

Check out our guides to which dishes to eat and the best restaurants in Sydney .

Where to Stay

Sydney is divided from east to west by Sydney Harbour, with most tourist attractions around the city center on the southern side of the Bridge. This part of the city is packed with accommodations to choose from, from luxury hotels to Airbnbs.

If you're looking for food, culture, and nightlife, we recommend trendy inner city locations like Surry Hills or the Rocks. Beach lovers can satisfy their saltwater cravings by settling down in Bondi or a neighboring area, while Inner West neighborhoods like Newtown and Marrickville offer more affordable options not far from the action.

Read our article about the best neighborhoods to explore in Sydney .

Getting There

Most international visitors will fly into Sydney's only airport (SYD), also known as Kingsford Smith Airport , though bus and rail connections with Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane are also well established.

The airport is not far from the city center, so a 20-minute taxi or ride-share service will cost approximately AU$45 to $55. By train, the trip takes 13 minutes and will cost around AU$20 due to a costly airport gate pass fee. Renting a car is a good idea if you're planning on traveling more around Australia, but parking in Sydney is notoriously expensive.

Culture and Customs

Sydney is a safe, global city, where life is not all that different to medium-sized cities in the U.S. The city is located on the traditional lands of the Eora nation, with a long Aboriginal history before European settlement in 1788. The great weather is a big factor, as Sydneysiders like to spend lots of time in the outdoors and generally live an active lifestyle.

Tipping in Australia is completely voluntary and usually only done at formal restaurants and upscale bars (around 10 precent is appreciated for exceptional service). Servers receive a relatively high minimum wage, meaning tips do not form an integral part of their income. At hotels and in taxis, a similar rule applies—tip if you would like to, but it's not necessary.

Money Saving Tips

Sydney is not a budget-friendly city, especially if you plan on eating out and staying in the inner city. However, there are some easy ways to make your Aussie dollar go further.

• Transportation costs can add up in Sydney, with each ride on public transport costing between AU$2.50 and $4.50. Luckily, Adult Opal fares are capped at AU$16.10 a day, $50 a week, and $8.05 on Saturdays and Sundays, so you can plan your travel-heavy days for the end of the week.
• Many pubs offer discount meal deals during the week on classics like chicken schnitzel, burgers, and lamb cutlets. These are often advertised outside the restaurants and on their social media pages.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate—the value of the Australian dollar fluctuates, and you may be able to exchange your money at a better rate in the months or weeks leading up to your trip.

Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies . "Indigenous Australian Languages."

Tourism Australia . "Useful Tips."

Parliament of Australia . "Chapter 1."

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13 things to know before you go to Sydney

Oct 31, 2023 • 7 min read

Here's what you need to know before you go to make the most out of your visit to Sydney © Daviles / Getty Images

Sydneysiders, like most Australians, are genuinely friendly people – they just want visitors to have a good time and take fond memories with them when they go home. That said, there are some things to know about visiting one of Australia's most intriguing cities.

Before it became Australia , this continent was home to around 500 separate First Nations; Sydney is on the traditional lands on the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. Plan at least four days here, depending on the length of your trip and what else you hope to see. A week is better, but of course, the longer you stay, the more you’ll experience in this stunningly located and hugely cosmopolitan place.

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time in the Sydney, from packing lists to planning logistics to local etiquette.

1. There's no need to overpack

You won’t be embarrassed if you dress up or dress down in Sydney. Sydneysiders are stylish, but they prefer to keep it casual, like they’ve stepped off a yacht on the way to the opera.

It gets cool in winter, but not heavy coats kind of chilly – a warm pullover or light jacket should suffice unless there’s an unusually cold snap. (With that being said, visitors from cold-weather countries that are used to insulation and central heating may find it cold indoors in the winter. A pair of slippers won't go astray.)  Summer is hot and humid. Pack an umbrella no matter what time of year  you visit: rain is a given in this subtropical coastal city. Ideally, don't bring a plain black one (we explain why later).

2. The best places should be booked in advance

Much of what you will do in Sydney will depend on the weather, so too much pre-planning may result in last-minute itinerary changes anyway. You probably won’t go kayaking from Manly to a secret beach in high winds, and those rooftop sundowners are less fun in a heavy downpour. 

That said, if there are any destination restaurants you really want to go to, such as  Quay or Oncore by Clare Smyth , book at least a few months ahead. The best accommodations will also get snapped up, especially in high season (the Australian summer months of December to February), so get that sorted as soon as possible.

3. People really are friendly

Sydney may be on a par with London, New York and Paris when it comes to big cities with big reputations. However, it seems that the combination of sunshine, space and an outdoorsy waterside lifestyle has made Sydneysiders generally happy and friendly – most of the time. Be prepared to be asked all manner of personal questions whether you're waiting for a bus or picking up some supplies at the local store. If you're used to living somewhere where people mind their own business, it may take you a few days to thaw out but you'll soon find yourself smiling at everyone you pass on the Bondi to Bronte walk, or asking a stranger "what's in the bag?" like a local.

4. Tips for taking public transport including ferries

Let everyone off before you attempt to board a ferry , including the inevitable stragglers, as the gangways are slim. If you want to take photos and wander around the outside deck on the ferry, go for it – but be mindful that for locals, this is their normal daily commute, and travelers clambering over them to get a great shot will be annoying. 

Make sure you have your Opal or contactless bank card ready to tap at train station gates or when boarding and alighting from buses. In general, locals aren't too keen on people talking on mobile phones on public transport. Stick to texting. 

5. Do not drop any litter... seriously!

If you want to be hated by the locals, drop some litter at the beach, on the street or in nature. Australia launched an anti-litter campaign, Keep Australia Beautiful , in 1968 that is still going strong. If you smoke cigarettes, take your butt with you. Bins are sorted into recycling or general waste, so “ do the right thing .”

6. Honesty systems are sacred

Honesty systems work well in Australia. If it’s raining and you take that quality umbrella to a local bar, you can dump it in the umbrella bucket (or on the floor nearby if that’s overflowing), and it will still be there when you leave the bar two hours later. However, plain black umbrellas tend to all look the same, so bring something bright and distinctive.

7. Swearing is not intended to offend

It might be considered uncouth or rude to swear in many English-speaking countries, but in Australia, it’s fairly normal. Even Australian parliamentarians are known to drop a swear bomb. That said, the “So where the bloody hell are you?” tourism campaign by the Sydney office of M&C Saatchi Group caused some controversy when it launched in 2006. 

8. Yes, you can drink the tap water

It’s fine to drink tap water in Sydney. If there’s any danger of contamination, you’ll hear about it: it’ll be a major national news story.

9. Natural disasters and extreme weather are a genuine concern 

Australia is at the coalface of climate change (see what I did there?) and extreme weather events, even if the reason why is still open to debate in some places. 

In summer, there’s a risk of wildfires, and with its many pockets of forest in and around the city of Sydney, your trip could be impacted by the direct danger of fires or by smoke particles in the air. During the 2019 and 2020 Australian bushfire season , 42 million acres of forest across southeastern Australia burned and left glaciers in New Zealand grey from falling ash.

A famous poem – "My Country" by Dorothea Mackellar – describes Australia as a land of “drought and flooding rains." Sydney has had its fair share of the latter – 2022 was the wettest year on record, with flash flooding affecting the city.

10. Protect yourself from the sun and the heat

Use sunscreen, even in winter. The sun is hotter and sharper down under. A sunhat is an even better idea in the scorching summer heat, and take plenty of water if you’re walking anywhere. Look up the symptoms (and treatment) of heatstroke if someone you know is feeling unwell in the sun: quick action is essential.

11. Swim sensibly and don't take risks

Don’t get into any body of water alone, from surf beaches with rip currents that can drag you out to sea, to rivers, lakes and ponds that can have currents or obscured obstructions. Always swim between the red-and-yellow flags at a surf beach, which signifies lifeguards are on duty. They’ll place these in the safest area of a beach. 

In 2021, 294 people drowned in Australia, out of a total of almost 1000 “drowning incidents” (in other words, non-fatal but still harmful and scary), which was a significant increase from the year before. Know your skill level and play it safe. 

Oh, and there are jellyfish. If you get stung, rinse with water or vinegar (the latter is usually available at a surf lifesaving club).

12. A word on scams, theft and pickpockets

As mentioned, Sydneysiders are super friendly which can also lead travelers to let their guard down too easily. There’s no need to be paranoid, but keep your caution and wits about you when interacting with strangers, especially ones who approach you.

As in any big city, don’t wander around with valuables on display and don’t leave your phone or bags unattended. Generally, though, it’s pretty safe here. 

If you receive text messages with links to a website, no matter how convincing (i.e., your credit card needs verification)  never click on the link. Online scams are very sophisticated, especially when you’re jet-lagged or simply in unfamiliar terrain. Your bank would never send you a text with a link. 

13. In case of emergency, dial 000

Call “000” and you’ll be asked what service you need – police, ambulance or fire. Lifeline’s telephone crisis support is available on 13 11 14 (24 hours a day, seven days a week).

This article was first published August 2022 and updated October 2023

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Sydney Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 3, 2023

Besides being Australia’s largest city (over 5 million people live here, almost 20% of the entire country), Sydney is also its most visited. Though, contrary to popular belief, not the country’s capital.

Few visitors to Australia skip the city — and why would they?

With an incredible variety of attractions, beaches, restaurants, and sights to see, it’s easy to see why people come here and stay a while! There’s so much to do here (try to stay at least a week if you can). Be sure to also spend some time on the lesser-visited North Shore beaches. They’re gorgeous!

I’ve been visiting Sydney for over a decade and still love spending time here. It’s a fun, lively destination with something for everyone.

This Sydney travel guide will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this incredible city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Sydney

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Sydney

1. Hang out at the beaches

From Palm Beach and Manly in the north to the famous Bondi and Coogee in the south, Sydney has a beach for everyone. All the beaches are easy to get to via public transportation or car and there are tons of restaurants and surf shops lining them all. There’s also a coastal walk connecting the beaches together. The beaches get crowded on the weekends so try to visit during the week if you can. Some of the most popular beaches are Manly (wide and beautiful), Bronte (small and quiet), Coogee (fun), Bondi (the most popular), Palm (chill), and Dee Why (surfing).

2. See the Blue Mountains

Over millennia, the ancient sandstone of this national park has been weathered into gorges lined by steep cliffs and separated by narrow ridges. The area is free to visit and you can get there by train, which takes around two hours. Spend the day admiring the magnificent rock formation of the Three Sisters (particularly stunning at sunset and under evening floodlights) and hiking along the paths that offer excellent views of the valley, sheer rock walls, tumbling waterfalls, and magnificent forests. Some suggested hikes are the Grand Canyon Track (2.5 hours), Katoomba Falls (1 hour), and Six Foot Track (3 days). For a guided tour, Get Your Guide offers full-day wildlife-spotting tours for 155 AUD.

3. Learn to surf

Sydney is often the place travelers bite the bullet and learn the art of Australia’s famous national pastime. There are many companies here that offer lessons. While Bondi is the most popular beach, Manly on the north shore of Sydney has better waves (though you can find good waves up and down the coast!). Surfboard rentals start at 20 AUD per hour while two-hour group lessons cost around 99 AUD.

4. Admire the Sydney Opera House

The Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its white-shelled roof. It’s an architectural delight and feat of engineering as getting the roof to stay up took the creation of a complex support system. Not only is it the most iconic building in Australia, it’s also a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture in general. Guided tours of the Opera House cost 43 AUD and last one hour, providing tons of insight into how this iconic building came to be.

5. Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge was built in 1932 as a government employment project during the Great Depression. The project took almost 10 years to complete, and at the time it was the world’s largest steel arch bridge. These days, it’s the 8th-longest spanning-arch bridge in the world. Stretching 1,149 meters over the water, it’s also the world’s tallest steel arch bridge, making it an impressive architectural accomplishment. To quote the famous travel writer Bill Bryson, “This is a great bridge.” If you’re feeling adventurous, tours that climb the bridge cost 250 AUD.

Other Things to See and Do in Sydney

1. visit the rocks.

The Rocks is the oldest part of Sydney. With its narrow lanes, colonial buildings, sandstone churches, and Australia’s oldest pubs, this neighborhood is where Sydney started when the British first landed. It was almost torn down in the 1970s for modern high-rises, but, luckily, citizen action got it preserved instead. The Rocks’ weekend markets, art museums, street entertainment, delicious (and sometimes overpriced) restaurants, and beautiful views of the harbor, Opera House, and bridge make this one of the coolest areas of the city. I love heading up to the Sydney Observatory Hill Park for a good view of the city, wandering the harbor promenade, and hitting the bars at night. You can take a detailed walking tour around the neighborhood with The Rocks Walking Tours for 35 AUD.

2. Relax in the Botanic Gardens

You’ll find Australia’s first vegetable garden and a treasure trove of trees, ferns, flowers, and gardens at the Royal Botanic Gardens. On a sunny day, you’ll find locals sprawled out all over the lawns soaking up the sun. You can also see Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a seat carved into a stone cliff, where you can sit and gaze out at the harbor. There are also free one-hour volunteer-guided tours of the garden, too! Admission is free but tours needed to be confirmed in advance.

3. Ferry to Manly Beach

The ferry ride to Manly offers sweeping views of the harbor, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the world-famous Opera House. It’s a picturesque 20-minute ride each way that puts you in one of the coolest parts of the north end of the city. Manly is famous for its wide beach, giant waves, surfing, and kick-ass nightlife. Ferry tickets are 9.90 AUD.

4. Admire the Town Hall

Built from 1869-1889, Sydney’s beautiful Town Hall is a picturesque Victorian building inspired by the iconic Hôtel de Ville in Paris. Part of it was actually built on a cemetery, where over 2,000 people were buried. Guided tours are currently not offered, however, self-guided tours are available. You can scan codes around the building to learn more about its history and construction. Tours need to be booked in advance online.

5. Tour the museums

Like most cities, Sydney has a wide variety of museums. And, luckily, thanks to Australia’s Commonwealth past, all the public museums in the city are free, making it a great and inexpensive activity in an otherwise expensive city. My favorite museum in Sydney is the Hyde Park Barracks. Set in the old convict barracks from the 18th century, it does an amazing and detailed job of chronicling colonial life in Sydney, using the stories of the early settlers, historical information, artifacts, and historical recreations. It’s well worth the 12 AUD entrance fee. Few people visit, making it one of the best non-touristy things to do in the city!

Other museums in Sydney worth visiting are the Art Gallery of New South Wales (modern art), the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia at The Rocks (contemporary art), the Australian National Maritime Museum (maritime history), the White Rabbit Gallery (contemporary Chinese art), and the Museum of Sydney (local history).

6. Visit the Hunter Valley

North of town is one of Australia’s premier wine regions. The Hunter Valley is home to amazing wineries that produce luscious reds. While it’s not as easy on the budget, it is an excuse to get out of the city and see the countryside. Day tours with Colorful Trips that visit three wineries cost 199 AUD. It’s best to stay for at least a night out in the valley to get the full experience.

If you have a car, you can base yourself in Newcastle or Cessnock, but you’d have a more unique experience if you booked a secluded cabin or home on Airbnb as there are plenty in the area, including some that are also vineyards. If you need a vehicle, use Discover Cars to find the best rental prices.

7. Take the Tower Sky Walk

At 286 meters (938 feet), the Sydney Tower Skywalk is as tall as the Eiffel Tower and twice as high as the Harbour Bridge. It offers amazing panoramic views of the city from its Skywalk at the top. I’m not a fan of heights but even I was impressed by the view! At 82 AUD, it’s cheaper and easier than climbing the bridge itself (and the views are actually better).

8. Do a coastal walk

There are a number of stunning coastal walks that allow you to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Sydney Harbor. While tons of people follow the two-hour Coogee-to-Bondi walk (skip the weekends when it’s overly crowded), I found both the shorter walk in Watson’s Bay and the Split-to-Manly walk quieter and more breathtaking.

9. Attend a cultural event

Since Sydney has a complex about Melbourne being called the cultural capital of Australia, it tries to outdo its rival by hosting over tons of official festivals and events each year. It offers art gallery nights, concerts, festivals, and much more. It wants to be seen as more than a beach destination so matter what time of the year you visit, you will find something going on in the city! Most of the events are free and a list of what’s going on soon can be found on the Sydney tourism website . It will give you dates, prices, times, and everything in between.

10. Party in King’s Cross

If you’re looking to go out and get wild on the cheap, then go to King’s Cross. This is where the beer is inexpensive and the backpackers (and locals) party late. For a less traveler-centric time, head to Manly, The Rocks, or the CBD (Central Business District) where there are more locals and fewer travelers (but more expensive drinks).

11. Explore the Markets

Sydney has many amazing markets to explore. At Paddington Markets, the Fish Market, Bondi Farmers Market, the Flower Market, and a whole lot more seasonal markets, it’s really easy to spend a lot of time wandering and shopping. I love Paddington Markets and the Farmers Market the best — they draw an eclectic crowd and the farmers market makes me want to cook nonstop. Other markets worth checking out are Glebe Market (vintage clothes, eclectic local handicrafts, delicious food stalls), Rozelle Collectors Market (antiques, clothing, DVDs), and Orange Grove Organic (produce and food stalls).

For more information on other cities in Australia, check out these guides:

• Alice Springs Travel Guide
• Brisbane Travel Guide
• Broome Travel Guide
• Cairns Travel Guide
• Fraser Island Travel Guide
• Gold Coast Travel Guide
• Melbourne Travel Guide
• Perth Travel Guide
• Whitsunday Islands Travel Guide

Sydney Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms with 8-10 beds start at 30-40 AUD per night. Private rooms start at 100 AUD per night but are usually between 120-180 AUD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Only a couple of hostels in the city include free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city for 15-20 AUD per night for a basic plot without electricity. Wild camping on the beaches is illegal.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels begin at 100 AUD per night. Expect to pay upwards of double that for a more central hotel with better amenities. Wi-Fi, TV, and AC are all standard.

Airbnb is widely available around the city with private rooms starting at 60 AUD but averaging double that. For an entire home or apartment, prices start at 130 AUD but average closer to 250-350 AUD. Be sure to book in advance to find the cheapest places.

Food – While you can find cuisine of all types in Sydney, popular traditional choices include BBQ meat (especially sausages), meat pies, fish and chips, seafood, chicken parmigiana (chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese), and of course the infamous vegemite on toast.

A meal out at a cheap local restaurant costs around 23-25 AUD. A fast-food combo from somewhere like McDonald’s costs 14 AUD while a pizza costs around 18 AUD. Chinese food is 12-22 AUD for a main dish.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal starts at 60 AUD.

A beer is around 8 AUD, a latte or cappuccino costs around 5 AUD and, for a bottle of water, expect to pay almost 3 AUD.

If you cook your own meals, expect to pay around 75-95 AUD per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Sydney Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 70 AUD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do mostly free activities like visit free museums and hang out on the beach. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 AUD more to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 200 AUD per day, you can stay in a budget Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and enjoy more expensive activities like a tour of the Opera House or surf lessons.

On a “luxury” budget of 430 AUD or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AUD.

Sydney Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Sydney is one of the most visited cities in Australia so the prices here are steep. Even the day to day cost of living here is high. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to save money when you visit! Here are ways to spend less in Sydney:

• Attend free local events – What’s On Sydney has a list of free and cheap current events. Check it out for the most up-to-date details. The local tourism office can also help with this.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Sydney is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host who can host you for free. This way, you not only have a place to stay, but you’ll have a local host that can share their insider tips and advice.
• Work for your room – Many hostels offer travelers the chance to work for their accommodation. In exchange for a few hours a day of cleaning, you get a free bed. Commitments vary but most hostels ask you to stay for at least a week.
• Get an Opal card – This metro card is free – you just need to load it with money (minimum 20 AUD). It offers cheaper tickets as well as fare caps so you can save money as you explore.
• Free walking tours – I’m Free runs a free daily tour of the city center and The Rocks, Sydney’s original settlement. Additionally, you can use Sydney Greeters (advanced booking required), which is a free service that connects you with a local who will show you around their neighborhood!
• Visit the markets – Sydney has many amazing markets to explore. At Paddington Markets, the fish market, Bondi Farmers Market, the flower market, and a whole lot more seasonal markets, it’s really easy to spend a lot of time wandering and shopping. I love Paddington Markets the best!
• Explore the free museums – Australia has a lot of expensive museums, but it also has a ton of free ones. Some free museums worth checking out in Sydney are the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Australian National Maritime Museum, The Rocks Discovery Museum, Justice and Police Museum, White Rabbit Gallery, and the Australian Museum.
• Drink goon (box wine) – Goon is infamous on the Australian backpacker trail. This cheap box of wine is the best way to drink, get a buzz, and save a lot of money at the same time.
• Cook your own meals – The best way to reduce your costs is to cook as many meals as possible. It’s not glamorous, but it will save you a ton of money!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Sydney is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with you to save money and lower your plastic use. LifeStraw makes a bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Sydney

Some of my favorite hostels in the world are in Sydney! Here are some of my favorite hostels to stay at:

• Hump Backpackers

For more hostel suggestions, check out my complete list of the best hostels in Sydney .

How to Get Around Sydney

You have to get an Opal card (or an Opal single-use card) to use the system. With an Opal card, you’ll never pay more than 16.80 AUD per day, 50 AUD per week, and 8.40 AUD per day on weekends.

The City Circle is Sydney’s mostly-underground rail line that runs in a loop, stopping at all the main stations. It’s the best way to get around the city center. Like the bus, you can use Opal to pay for your ride.

Sydney also has a light rail that goes from Central Station to Dulwich Hill and is good to use when you want to check out Chinatown or Darling Harbour. A single fare starts at 5 AUD for on-peak travel and 2.25 AUD for off-peak travel. The airport express train is 18.50 AUD.

Ferry – Ferries run around Sydney Harbour from Circular Quay to a handful of destinations, including Manly, the Olympic Park, and Taronga Zoo. You can use your Opal card for ferry services (just the public ones), and fares start at 6.45 AUD. Otherwise, you can purchase tickets from the wharf.

Bike rental – Sydney is easy to explore on bike and bike rentals can be found for around 30 AUD for a half-day rental.

Car rental – You can find a small car to rent in Sydney starting from about 60 AUD per day. You don’t need a car to explore the city though so I’d only rent one if you’re heading out for some day trips. For the best deals, use Discover Cars

Taxi – Taxis are easy to flag down but expensive, starting at 4.80 AUD and costing almost 3 AUD per kilometer. Skip them if you can!

When to Go to Sydney

September to the end of November and March to May are the best months to visit Sydney. These are the shoulder seasons, when temperatures are pleasant and you don’t have to contend with the huge tourist crowds. Airfare is also cheaper during this time.

September-November is right before peak season, so there will be some crowded places. The temperatures hover between 11-24°C (52-75°F). Fall (March-May) is much the same, so you’ll want to pack a light jacket for those chillier days.

The high season in Sydney is December through February, which is Australia’s summer. Temperatures are often in the high 20s°C (high 70s°F) each day, so people flock here to take advantage of the heat. This makes it a very expensive time to visit as this is when most tourists visit. But it’s also when the city is at its liveliest, with tons of events going on.

How to Stay Safe in Sydney

Sydney is a safe place to visit, even if you’re traveling solo (and even as a solo female traveler). People are quite friendly and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble. Violent crime here is rare. Petty theft is also rare, but keep your valuables secure when out and about just to be safe.

Most incidents tend to occur because visitors are not used to Sydney’s climate. Be sure you have plenty of sunscreen and stay as hydrated as possible. If you’re venturing out of the city, be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes and spiders. If you’re bitten, seek immediate care.

Furthermore, if you’re swimming, heed the red and yellow flags. Yellow flags indicate swimming conditions may be dangerous; red flags mean the beach is closed. If you’re swimming in the ocean between November to May, only swim where there is a beach stinger net otherwise you risk getting stung by jellyfish.

Solo female travelers are generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that can help more!

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many in Australia though.

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Sydney Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. Just enter your departure and arrival destinations and it will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost. It’s one of the best transportation websites out there!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Australia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney

Where to Stay in Brisbane: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Brisbane

The Best Walking Tours in Melbourne

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

Where to Stay in Melbourne: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Sydney

INSIDER SYDNEY ITINERARY for (2024)

Australia’s largest city, famous for its grand harbour front, Sydney Opera House, and being Nemo’s ever-elusive destination. It’s the perfect place to spend your holidays! With so much to offer, a massive harbour with plenty of waterside activities, historical buildings, and a multitude of fascinating tours to choose from, your Sydney itinerary is sure to be bursting with creative adventures!

Indigenous Australians are thought to have inhabited the Sydney area for at least 30,000 years, this means that there’s an overwhelming amount to learn about your destination of choice.

Whether you’re spending 2 days in Sydney, 3 days, or even a week in Sydney, we’ve got your activities covered for the trip. Here’s what we like to think is the best Sydney itinerary!

With a Sydney City Pass , you can experience the best of Sydney at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

3 Day Sydney Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Bronte Baths | Sydney Opera House | Walking Tour | Wendy’s Secret Garden | Golden Age Cinema
• Day 2: Bondi Icebergs Pool | Bondi Beach | Bondi to Coogee Coastal Path | Lansdowne Hotel
• Day 3: Sydney Harbour Bridge | Royal Botanic Gardens | Luna Park Sydney

Where To Stay In Sydney

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You’ve booked your flights, now you’ve got the task of deciding where to stay in Sydney so you can begin planning your Sydney itinerary. There are so many things to do in Sydney you want to place yourself in a location where you can take advantage of the time you have.

Here are two of our favourite places to stay in Sydney!

Bondi Beach is probably one you’ve heard of before as it’s become famous all around the world. This neighbourhood stretches out along the coastline and has a kilometre of beach just waiting to be explored. Bondi Beach is full of health clubs, lifestyle events, and some very elegant dining options.

The locals in this area tend to be very active, go-getter types, so if you enjoy living life to the fullest, Bondi Beach just might be the perfect place for you. You’ll also find a lot of homestays and most of the best hostels in this neighbourhood, which makes it ideal for backpackers in Sydney .

Balmain is a neighbourhood in Sydney just 6 kilometres from the city centre. It’s home to the largest Italian population in the city, and you can see the Italian influence on every street corner. Italian architecture is sprinkled generously around the neighbourhood and little terraces jut out from almost every building.

As you can imagine, pizza and pasta joints are the main dishes served up in the area, and you’ll find cafes on almost every street.

Now that you know how to get around, here’s what you should be up to during your time in Sydney .

There’s a lot to do in this incredible city, from hitting the beaches to exploring then harbour and discovering the vast histories of this city and country. Sydney is easy to get around and a pleasant and sunny city to discover.

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Best Hostel in Sydney – Mad Monkey Backpackers on Broadway

The Mad Monkey Hostel on Broadway offers really affordable accommodation in the most convenient place: just a few minutes walk from Central Station! You can expect a clean interior with modern decor. Hot breakfast is served every morning, so you’re in for a treat if you’re on a budget!

Best Airbnb in Sydney: The Barn on Prince Alfred Park – Central Station

There is no cooler place to stay in Sydney than this 19th century converted barn in Surry Hills. In fact, it’s one of the best Airbnbs in Sydney . Enjoy high ceilings, spacious rooms, and modern amenities all in Sydney’s coolest neighbourhood.

Just a short walk to Surry Hills’ trendy bars, restaurants, and clubs, you won’t find a more ideally located flat in the city.

Best Budget Hotel in Sydney – Wyndham Sydney Suites

Close to all the best tourist attractions in Sydney, you honestly couldn’t ask for a better location than the Wyndham. Each room is modern with a clean finish, and they’re equipped with their own small kitchen and cosy balcony. If you’re someone who enjoys privacy and value for money, this is a great spot for you!

Best Luxury Hotel in Sydney – Astral Tower and Residences at The Star

This modern hotel is the picture of elegance at its finest! Located in Darling Harbour, you simply could not imagine a better view! Luxury is hidden around every corner of this hotel and the facilities are nothing less than world-class.

Your first day in Sydney will see you enjoying the beautiful natural surrounds that Sydney has to offer and immersing yourself in unique cultural experiences.

8:00 AM – Take a Swim at Bronte Baths

Join the early-risers in Sydney for a few salty laps of the Bronte Baths tidal pool. This full-size tidal pool is the perfect place to get your exercise in before the day has even started.

Waking up to an ocean swim is a truly Australian way to start your day! However, tourists often find that the water at Bronte Beach is a little too violent and volatile for swimming, so this is the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful saltwater swim without worrying about the tides. Blow off the cobwebs from your journey over to Sydney, especially if you’ve got jetlag, and dive right into the azure Aussie waters!

Enjoy the sounds and views of waves crashing over the edge of the tidal pool, knowing you’re safe inside its sheltered walls. Be sure to take your camera along for the trip, as the sunrise from Bronte Baths is nothing less than an Instagrammable sight.

Insider Tip: Try getting to the baths before 7 am, as watching the sunrise on the horizon is absolutely gorgeous from this perfect viewing spot. Check out this detailed guide to Bronte Baths for more information.

Cost – Free! Getting there – Catch the train/bus to Bondi Junction and switch to the 379 local bus. How long should you stay – 1.5 hr

11:00 AM – Take a Walking Tour

Taking a walking tour of the city helps you to come to a deeper understanding of the sights you see around you. Learning the history of these sights allows you to take a lot more value away from the experience.

There are 3 tours that take place every day, which makes the rest of your day a lot more flexible and allows you to revisit some of your favourite sights for a more in-depth tour.

Taking a walking tour is a great way to get your bearings and on a limited trip, it’s the best way to take in all the main sights in a short amount of time. Heading off with a local guide you’ll also get to see some of the more off the beaten track areas you might not have otherwise known about. You’ll also get an insider’s perspective on the history and culture of this city.

Cost – $50 Getting there – Take the 379 bus to Bondi Junction, then take the train to Martin Place Station. How long should you stay – 2 hrs

1:30 PM – Take a Tour of the Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House was put on the map by its ability to host performing arts on a continuous basis. The building hosts over 1600 events every year, making it one of the busiest performing arts centres in the whole world!

Your guide will lead you under the famed sails of the Sydney Opera House as they tell you the tales and secrets that the building has become famous for over the years.

Don’t just see this iconic building from the outside, head inside and learn more about one of the world’s most famous buildings!

Cost – $30 Getting there – Take the train to Martin Place Station or walk. How long should you stay – 1 hr

3:00 PM – Visit Wendy’s Secret Garden

The wife of famed artist, Brett Whiteley, poured her creative energy into designing a gorgeous secret garden when her husband passed away. Her name was Wendy, and that’s how the garden got its name. The garden is half public and half private property, but the owners don’t mind visitors popping by to explore the garden and enjoy a picnic.

The garden overlooks Sydney Harbour and is the perfect place to snap a pic of the beautiful bay. The garden has been taken care of by Wendy and two gardeners over the past 25 years. They’ve planted many gorgeous plants and created intricate pathways that run through the grounds. This makes it the perfect garden to explore before settling down for a picnic.

The garden is filled with birdbaths and benches, which makes it a great spot to relax and do some bird watching if you’re feeling up for it.

Being an artist’s wife, Wendy needed to add an artistic touch to the garden. For this reason, she has placed bronze sculptures throughout the garden. It can be loads of fun trying to find them all. Most of these statues were donated by local artists in the Sydney area.

Cost – Free! Getting there – Take the train to Milsons Point or North Sydney stations. You can also take a ferry to Milsons Point. How long should you stay – 1 hr

5:00 PM – Catch a Screening at the Golden Age Cinema

The building was constructed in 1940, intended to be used as offices for Paramount Pictures. It was used for just that for many years, but in 2013 the building reopened as the Golden Age cinema. The cinema contains an old basement theatre that is now being used to showcase old films as well as new Indie films.

Enjoying this old theatre experience is a must during your stay in Sydney. Its old-timey feel sends you straight back to the mid-1900s!

The cinema contains an adjoining bar, where you can purchase movie snacks before the screening. Here you won’t find just your regular popcorn and coke, but there are a few fancy extras thrown in.

If you’re in the mood for a full-on meal, chefs can prepare your meal and serve it to you during the movie. It really is a great experience. If you’re in the mood for a light snack, opt for a sundae. They’re known to be the best sundaes in town.

Cost – Around $15 Getting there – Take the train to Museum or Central and walk for 2 mins. How long should you stay – With there being a bar onsite and food available, you can stay for quite some time!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Your day 2 Sydney itinerary will see you spending plenty of time by the ocean and enjoying some wholesome musical entertainment!

9:00 AM – Swim in Bondi Icebergs Pool

Bondi Icebergs Pool has become an all-year-round landmark for Bondi Beach. A dip into the seawater is the most refreshing way to start the morning, no matter what time of year you’re visiting Sydney. It may take a brave soul to venture into the water during winter, although the locals enjoy it just fine! Perhaps they’re a little more accustomed to the beach lifestyle?

The Bondi Icebergs Pool is an ocean pool that is by far the most photographed pool in all of Australia! It was built to look like a normal swimming pool but is filled to the brim with seawater, much like any other tidal pool.

Be sure to bring your camera along to this lovely pool as the turquoise blue water is something you’ll want to capture!

It’s a great way to start another day packed full of adventures by diving into this iconic beachside pool for a refreshing dip!

Cost – $7 Getting there – Take the train to Bondi Junction and either walk or get on the 380, 381, 382 or 333 bus for a 15-minute ride to the beach. How long should you stay – 1.5 hrs

11:00 AM – Take a Surfing Lesson at Bondi Beach

There’s nothing more truly Aussie than hanging ten on a wave at Bondi Beach. Learning to surf at one of the most popular surf destinations in the world is an absolute privilege that should not be missed while you’re staying in Sydney.

Each surfing lesson for beginners starts on the sand, so you don’t need to worry about being thrown in the deep end. Although each surfer requires taking a leap of faith to stand up on the board for the first time.

You’ll get the opportunity to feel the rush of riding your first wave, with the help of your very well-trained surf coach. Hopefully, you’ll be catching waves by yourself in no time.

During your lessons you’ll learn to ride a long-board, these are surfboards used to catch even the smaller waves, so riding a wave shouldn’t be a problem! Your lesson will include a wetsuit that you’ll be very appreciative of in the winter months. During summer, the water is warm and you may not require a wetsuit but the option is still there.

Cost – $85 Getting there – Walk to the beach from Icebergs How long should you stay – 2 hrs.

2:00 PM – Walk Along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Path

After spending the morning in the water, now it’s time to dry off and take a walk along the stunning coast of Sydney. The Bondi to Coogee walk is one of the most famous of the many walks you can take along the coast here and it’s one of the best!

The path will lead you past Waverley Cemetery, where it can get a little windy. This part of the walk takes place on a suspended walkway, so be careful during this section of the journey. You’ll then pass Clovelly Bowls Club and head towards Gordons Bay. Gordons Bay is a secluded bay that is the perfect stop off for a picnic or just a breather.

This is a beautiful way to take yourself on a self-guided tour of the coastline. Not many tourists experience Sydney this way, so it’s a ‘must’ to add to your Sydney itinerary.

This coastal walkway will lead you along 6-kilometres of the gorgeous coastline while taking in some spectacular views! You’ll then reach Coogee where you should stop off for a refreshment or a bite to eat before heading back to Bondi Beach or the city.

You can spend as much time as you want on this trail, it usually takes around 2 hours if you don’t have many breaks. However, there are heaps of beaches and inlets along the way where you might want to take a dip or just enjoy the view.

Cost – Free! Getting there – Starts behind Icebergs. Take the bus back from Coogee back to Central. How long should you stay – 2 hrs plus

9:00 PM – Listen to Live Music at the Lansdowne Hotel

Support the local live music scene at the Lansdowne Hotel! The hotel pub has become a local favourite for those who appreciate some quality live music.

You’ll be happy to know that an over-the-counter meal will only cost you $10, so you’ll have plenty of extra cash for the night.

Gain access to live music in the upstairs section for only a few dollars. This amount changes depending on who’s playing but is never anything too extravagant.

Sit back and relax in a candle-lit room while listening to the best the live local music scene has to offer. Rugs line the couches giving the place a cosy feel that encourages guests to sit back and relax. However, if you like to get up and boogie, there’s always plenty of space to do that.

The venue can hold around 250 people, so don’t worry about not being able to get in. There’s generally enough space to arrive late and still find a space.

Cost – A few dollars. The amount is dependent on who’s playing. Getting there – Take the train to Central and walk. How long should you stay – As long as you like… but don’t overdo it, we’ve got another great day planned for tomorrow!

Mad Monkey Backpackers on Broadway

The Mad Monkey Hostel on Broadway offers really affordable accommodation in the most convenient place: just a few minute walk from Central Station! If you prefer to stay in hostels, this is one of the best hostels in Australia.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

If you’re spending more than 2 days in Sydney, you’re going to need a few extra activities to add to your Sydney trip! Here are a few of the best places in Sydney we think you should be adding to your itinerary:

9:00 AM – Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge

Over 4 million visitors have climbed Sydney Harbour Bridge! Experienced guides will talk you through the activity before your climb and lead you every step of the way up the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The bridge towers 134m over the water, which makes the view from the top nothing less than magnificent! Tours are held throughout the day, from dawn until dusk, and the views change continuously throughout the day. We recommend going early in the morning to catch the sunrise or late at dusk to catch the sunset.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge has become one of the most photographed parts of the city, and there’s no secret as to why. This gorgeous bridge stands tall over one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world and now shapes the city skyline.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take part in an experience completely unique to Sydney. This is one activity you have to add to your Sydney itinerary if you plan on staying for more than 2 days in Sydney.

Before the climb, you will be equipped with everything you need to make the climb. All that you’ll need to bring with you are a pair of sunglasses and comfortable shoes.

Climbing the Sydney Harbour bridge was voted the number one traveller’s choice experience in all of Australia!

If you have extra time and want to spice things up a bit, you can even charter your own yacht to take you around the harbour. It might be the top end of your budget, but split between six to eight people, you can find an affordable option that still gives a memorable experience.

Cost – Between $140 and $280 depending on which package you decide to take. Getting there – Catch a ferry, bus or train to Circular Quay. How long should you stay – 2.5 – 3.5 hrs

1:30 AM – Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

After the excitement of the morning, take some time to wander these beautiful gardens to get your breath before the next thrilling adventure!

The Royal Botanic Gardens are an impressive 74 acres and is home to a variety of events throughout the year. The Gardens are a scientific institution and one of the most important botanic scientific institutions in the world!

These gardens were established in 1816, which makes them the oldest botanic gardens in Australia!

The gardens are open every day of the week and access is completely free! This makes it the perfect place to stroll around in search of some of Australia’s most beautiful plants. Plant and birdlife are abundant in the gardens, so be sure to take your camera along for the trip!

From the gardens, it’s a short walk to Sydney Opera House if you feel like exploring a little further. These famed gardens are a must-visit during your time in Sydney, so be sure to add them to your Sydney itinerary!

Cost – Free Getting there – Take the train to either Martin Place, St James or Circular Quay or walk from Central. How long should you stay – 1 hr

3:00 PM – Let your Inner Child Free at Luna Park Sydney

Sydney’s Luna Park is now listed on the NSW heritage registry! Apart from just being an amusement park, the park holds history tours that show you the ins and outs of running an old amusement park. Although it has undergone major restorations in the past, constant maintenance is required to keep it functioning at its best.

The park underwent serious restoration during the 90s allowing it to run safely and efficiently into the 21st century. Luna Park Sydney has a rich history. Starting in 1935, this rare surviving amusement park features fantasy architecture and the art deco style of the 30s.

The famous ‘face’ entranceway to Luna Park has been photographed many times, and is what the park has become most famous for all over the world!

You’ll be given a park map when you enter that will help you decide which rides and attractions you’d like to visit most! On the map, you’ll also find interesting facts about the park. You can enthral yourself with roller coasters or scare yourself at the haunted Mystery Manor.

This historic amusement park is a great way to spice up your Sydney itinerary and end your time in the city with a bang!

Cost – $37 for the day. Getting there – Take the train to Milsons Point station or the ferry to Milsons Point Wharf. How long should you stay – As long as you like!

The best time to visit Sydney is widely up for debate. While there’s no wrong time to visit this gorgeous city, you should make an informed decision when deciding what time of year you’d like to go.

January is the hottest month of the year in Sydney, as it’s just after the summer solstice. In February and March, Sydney tends to get its highest rainfall.

During April and May, the city starts cooling down considerably as Sydney heads into winter.

During the months of June, July, and August, temperatures drop quite low in Sydney which marks mid-winter. In September, October, and November the temperatures start to rise again-  during this time Sydney is at its busiest. Since it’s at the start of the season, however, we still think it’s a great September destination , especially for those in the Northern Hemisphere escaping fall.

December is the driest month of the year in Sydney and marks the end of the tourist season. This is a great time to book yourself into one of the cool Sydney hostels as prices begin to drop significantly.

Knowing how you’re going to navigate the city is one of the most important parts of your Sydney itinerary. In many cities, public transport can cause challenges to travellers, but luckily for you, Sydney is not one of those cities. In fact, their transport system is one of the best in the world!

Most of the locals in Sydney rely heavily on public transport. This means that it’s efficient and well organised!

It’s important to note that in order to make use of public transport in Sydney, you will need an Opal Card. This can be bought at a post office or a supermarket, so they’re really not hard to come by.

The train routes run a loop around the city, which is a great way to get from one side of the city to the other. If you’re looking for transport within the city, you can make use of the light rail, buses, or taxis.

Being on the coast, ferries are also a great way to get across the harbour and to other areas like Manley, when you take the ferry from Circular Quay you also get great views of the city and the Opera House too!

Sydney as a city is considered a very safe place , especially for tourists. The little crime that Sydney does have generally affects the locals and not visitors to the city. This being said, it’s important to be careful, no matter where you’re travelling. Like your mother probably told you, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Here are a few things we suggest you watch out for during your vacation in Sydney.

It’s advised that you stay away from higher crime neighbourhoods in Sydney, mainly during the night. These include Kings Cross, Fairfield, Redfern, Cabramatta, Campbelltown, Blacktown, Liverpool, and Penrith. This is not to say that these areas are extremely dangerous, but they’re at higher risk than other neighbourhoods.

When visiting the beaches in Sydney, be aware of strong undertows that can easily take you out to sea. They have caused many drownings in the Sydney area.

Sydney has many dangerous animals that could bite or sting you. If you get bitten or stung by something poisonous, it’s important to call the emergency number immediately, 000. These animals include dangerous insects, spiders, snakes, and marine life.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Sydney itinerary.

Are 7 days in Sydney too long?

A seven day Sydney itinerary is probably the ideal time to see the city in full detail, without any stress or rushing. That gives you enough freedom to have an afternoon to yourself to rewind and give your feet a break.

How many days minimum should I spend in Sydney?

Sydney is MASSIVE. So 3-4 full days is the absolute minimum to get a good grasp of the city. Having even more time would be recommended.

What should I definitely add to my Sydney itinerary?

Sport fans should definitely add the Bondi Iceberg Pool to their itinerary. Swim some laps, enjoy the cool water and then head straight to the famous Bondi Beach to chill on for the rest of the day.

What can I do with three days in Sydney?

Three days in Sydney allow you to see quite a few things in the city. Make sure you include Bondi Beach, a river cruise that’ll give you great views of the Opera House and a climb up the Sydney Harbor Bridge.

Sydney is an absolutely beautiful city! With so much to do, this city makes the perfect holiday destination all year round! Be sure to pack your camera for this trip, because you’re sure to be surrounded by exquisite views all trip long!

Sydney has a rich cultural history that is sure to knock your socks off, so be sure to learn as much as you can during your trip! It’s important to stay mindful of the incredible city you’re visiting.

If you haven’t already, be sure to add some of our great activities to your Sydney itinerary and pack your bags for Australia . It’s sure to be one for the books!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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Ultimate Sydney Itinerary for 2 to 5 Days

Australia’s oldest city was founded by the British in the late 18th century as a penal colony, but trust us, a lot has changed since then! We’re here to help you nail out your Sydney itinerary with the best the city has to offer.

Sydney is Australia’s most iconic travel destination. The capital of New South Wales is bustling, busy, and full of famous tourist attractions, museums, and beaches.

There’s so much to fit into a Sydney itinerary, especially if it’s your first time in the city.

Our Sydney trip plan gives you three full days to explore, starting with the popular Sydney Harbor and moving out to the beaches and coastline.

Of course, you can spend much longer than three days, so we’ve added a few of our favorite day trips too!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Australia (Travel Guide)

Ultimate Sydney Itinerary

Table of Contents

If it’s your first time in the city, then the first day of your Sydney itinerary has to begin in the most famous area.

If you’ve flown in from anywhere (yes, Sydney is remote!), you’ll probably have spent your first day in bed.

Get your first proper morning in the city off to a good start with a substantial Aussie breakfast and some coffee in Circular Quays.  

Sydney Explorer HOHO Bus

This has always been one of my favorite ways to see a city. Although not always the cheapest option, you get to stay above ground and on the top of the double-decker buses you get a perspective of the city you cannot find elsewhere.

They take you to the best places the city has to offer and I have some amazing city visits by utilizing these buses in many cities in Europe and the United States.

Take advantage of the Ultimate Sydney Arrival Package or the Big Bus Sydney and Bondi Hop-on Hop-off Tour to maximize your time in the city.

Day 1: Sydney Trip Plan

Explore the harbor area.

Once you’re fueled up on smashed avocados and flat whites, it’s time to explore the Harbor Area.

Many people don’t know that Sydney Harbour is actually a naturally occurring landmark and boasts being the most beautiful natural harbor in the world.

Although there are over 150 miles of shoreline the most popular areas are the landmarks of the Royal Botanical Gardens and the beautiful Sydney Opera House.

Furthermore, you may take a ferry ride across the harbor to enjoy some great restaurants that are situated right on the beach.

This is an efficient way of navigating the harbor because it contains more than 30 mi.² of water and is much more convenient than trying to walk around the shoreline.

With so many spots to stop and visit around the harbor, make sure to give yourself ample time to explore.

Top recommended tours :

• Experience the Real Sydney with our Signature Tour
• Sydney 6 Hour Private Tour
• Hidden Sydney Walking Tour – Stories, Food & Coffee

Royal Botanic Gardens

While it’s still morning (that means before it gets hot!), take the chance to stroll through the fresh air and open spaces of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Located right on the edge of the water, next to the Opera House, it’s a lovely place to take in the city’s skyline and admire plants from around the world.

The 74 acre Royal Botanical Gardens were founded in 1816 and house some of Sydney’s most beautiful green spaces.

The park is grouped into 18 different spaces that include spectacular flora such as the Succulent Garden, and Palace Rose Garden, to name a few.

The park hosts several events throughout the year and the gardens are very popular as a wedding venue. You can pack a picnic just watch out for the birds.

The local foul have been helping themselves to picnic food for years and are not wary of people. Even at that though, it’s a lot of fun, especially for kids, to see these beautiful birds come so close and act so spry.

The park that holds the gardens is free and has many trails and walking paths that take you some amazing displays of flowers and plants.

To top it all off, you get some pretty amazing views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge from the various lookouts in the garden. This was a highlight for us and it shouldn’t be missed.

Top recommended tours:

• Aboriginal Heritage Tour at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
• Private Sydney City Tour: The Key Attractions
• Half-Day or Full-Day Private Guide Hire From Sydney

Sydney Harbor Bridge

Sydney Harbor Bridge is one of the most impressive feats of engineering you’ll find in Sydney.

You can walk all the way across this iron and steel monster from the harbor to the other side of the river in around 20 minutes.

A better option though, is a Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure and a thrill, join a tour that takes you right up into the high supports of the bridge for epic views over the harbor.

You are harnessed up and led to the top of the bridge, so it’s not great if you’re scared of heights, of course. Book in advance for the best time slots.

• Sydney Private Tour featuring Wilderness, Wildlife, Waves, Waterfalls and Wine
• BOHO BLITZ: best of Sydney’s charming inner city neighbourhoods 1 day!
• Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise Including Lunch or Breakfast

Pylon Lookout

Of course, the Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re scared of heights or traveling on a tight budget (it’s not cheap).

Another less expensive option is to head to the top of Pylon Lookout, which is found at the harbor side end of the Sydney Harbor Bridge.

Pylon Lookout offers incredible views over the harbor, and for a much more modest entrance fee.

• Sydney by Night | The Original Luxury Private Night Tour
• 30-Minute Sydney Harbour and Olympic Park Helicopter Tour

Sydney Observatory

While you’re by the bridge, it’s always worth taking a look around the intriguing Sydney Observatory, located on the hilltop next to the bridge.

The observatory is now a science museum, but it dates back to the mid 19th century. The grassy areas around the observatory offer fantastic views over the Sydney Harbor Bridge too.

• Chinese Garden General Admission Ticket
• Sydney Bike Tours

The narrow streets and historic buildings clustered around the harbor and the bridge are known as The Rocks. For a first time Sydney itinerary, this area is a must-visit.

For starters, it’s one of the oldest areas in the city, and much of the architecture is very Victorian in design.

Secondly, it’s home to The Rocks Market, an open-air market packed with local craft stalls and fantastic food stands where you can fuel up after a long morning.

• The Rocks Walking Tour: the Original Guided Walking Tour of The Rocks
• The Rocks Pub Walking Tour
• Sydney Photography Tour in the Historic Rocks Area

Spooky Night Tour of The Rocks

The Rocks is made up of the original city center that was colonized by the British that first arrived in 1788. The area is known for its dark past as it was built specifically for the convicts being sent over from Britain.

If you messed up in Britain, you were put on a boat to a far off place to pay your penance. People were sent to Australia for crimes as petty as stealing a loaf of bread.

We decided that a wander on our own wouldn’t give us the atmosphere we were looking for so we joined up with I’m Free Walking Tours for a night tour of The Rocks.

We started at the famous Cadman’s cottage, the home of the man that guarded the port. Today his house sits inland, but when the colony was first established, it sat right on the water.

From there we spent a solid hour and a half touring the most famous and not so famous areas of The Rocks district.

She told us the history, shared the stories of how it grew and then declined. She told us stories about some of the people that lived here which gave a fascinating insight into what it was like for these people to arrive in a new land.

We were not spared the gruesome stories of murders, lynchings and ghosts that accompany the area either.

Lastly, we were told of the efforts to preserve the area, how it was almost demolished to build high rise apartments and then how it became a protected area of Sydney.

The area has a lot of charm and most of the buildings are preserved in their original appearances.

Museum of Sydney

Spend your afternoon learning more about the city’s history and culture by visiting the excellent Museum of Sydney.

This is the premier museum in the city, so take your time browsing through the exhibits and galleries inside.

• Kayak to Goat Island in Sydney Harbour with Local
• Shark Dive Xtreme at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
• Virtual Room – 45-min Immersive Time Travel Adventure for 2+ Players

Sydney Opera House

This structure is by far the most recognizable, featured on travel sites, postcards, and magazines. It is the icon of Sydney and Australia.

We recommend the 90-minute tour where you will not only learn about the soaring roof peaks and how the building was made, but also the individual venues that house much of the entertainment that visits Sydney.

You won’t have to wait to see a show in order to appreciate the wonderful Sydney Opera House. If you can, try and coincide your visit to Sydney with a trip to a performance at the Sydney Opera House.

There is also a five-star restaurant attached to the opera house that is rated as one of the world’s best for its cuisine offerings. Just be sure to get your reservation in early and try to make it at sunset if you can.

That way you are guaranteed to have one of the most breathtaking views that Sydney has to offer.

There are shows and events all through the year here, but of course, you will need to try and secure tickets in advance.

Grab dinner and a few drinks in the harbor area before enjoying a performance at the iconic Opera House to round off the first day of your Sydney trip plan.

• Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
• Sydney Attraction Pass Including Taronga Zoo, Sydney Opera House, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
• Sydney Opera House Tour and Tasting Plate Dining Experience

Paddy’s Market

In an attempt to beat the rain, we hopped on the metro and made our way towards one of Sydney’s most popular markets, Paddy’s.

This market reminded us of a lot of the markets you can find in Asia and Mexico with stall after stall of vendors. You can buy just about anything you may or may not need here.

The market is generally open Wednesday – Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Day 2: What to Do in Sydney

Start the day with a classic Aussie breakfast again; today is going to be another action-packed addition to your Sydney trip plan.

On day two of your Sydney itinerary, you’ll be heading towards the coast, where you’ll be exploring the famed Bondi Beach.

Get to know Sydney on this 1/2 day tour : Sydney Half Day Luxury Private Tour – Morning or Afternoon Avail

Bondi Beach

Sydney is known for being a coastal city, so there’s no way you can plan a Sydney itinerary without a visit to Bondi Beach, the most famous beach of them all.

The great thing is, it’s less than half an hour by public transport from the harbor area to Bondi. Get here in the morning so you can see the surfers out on the waves.

This is one of the most legendary surfing beaches in Australia. If you’re a surfer, you might want to spend the day riding the waves at Bondi Beach instead of continuing the rest of the second day of the Sydney trip plan!

Bondi Beach can be compared to South Beach in Miami. It is all glitz and glamor and according to the bus tour, the place to see and be seen in Sydney.

The beach itself is quite beautiful though and it felt really nice to walk on the beach in the sunshine and then browse through the various shops that lined the main drive.

• Surfing Lessons on Sydney’s Bondi Beach
• Private Sydney City and Bondi Beach Half Day Tour
• Palm Beach and Pittwater Kayak Tours

Bronte Baths

Enjoy Bondi Beach and visit the nearby Bondi Markets to grab a few snacks or drinks before walking along the coast towards Bronte Beach.

You can find the beautiful Bronte Baths, a public swimming pool carved from the rocks that’s kept topped up by the ocean.

• Bondi Beach Walking Tour with Optional Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk
• Bondi Beach and beyond
• Private Sydney city to Bondi Coast Tour with Waterfront Lunch

Coogee Beach

From Bronte Beach, continue walking along the coast to reach Coogee Beach. This is the end of the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Pathway, which you will have been following.

Coogee Beach is by far the most popular place to spend a lazy day in Sydney. The beautiful sand and placid water make the perfect stress free outing for everyone, young and old.

Coogee Beach is a short ferry ride from Sydney Harbour and is very visitor friendly.

One of its biggest draws is the sprawling boardwalk that houses many beach themed shops and has some of the most delicious cafe food to be found in all of Sydney.

You’ll be able to sit and enjoy a drink or a meal while you look out over the beautiful beach. It doesn’t get more relaxing than that.

Coogee can be quieter than Bondi (it’s not quite as famous), so take some time to relax on the beach, Aussie style.

• Kiama Coast, Bush, Beaches and BBQ Lunch Small Group Tour
• Sydney Six Beaches Trike Tour
• Sydney Harbour, Northern beaches and National Park

Darling Harbor

Catch the bus back to Sydney’s city center, and you can freshen up before enjoying a relaxed evening at Darling Harbor.

At this waterfront area, you’ll find plenty of places for drinks, cocktails, and great food, for a great end to day two of your Sydney trip plan.

• Luxury Catamaran Sailing Charters on Sydney Harbour
• Private Catamaran Hire on Sydney Harbour
• Sydney Harbour Secrets 3-Hour Cruise

Sydney Fish Market

You may a bit apprehensive because of all the talk about it being a tourist trap, but the Sydney Fish Market is a must during your time in the city.

It’s exciting to go in and be able to choose from a vast selection of fresh fish and the prices were very reasonable.

You can opt to buy the fish and take it home to prepare yourself if you’d like, or you can have it prepared for you on-site and enjoy it the way the fishmongers cook it.

We recommend you do both to fully experience the fish market.

Day 3 : Things to do in Sydney

It’s the third day of the Sydney itinerary, and again, it’s good to get a big breakfast and an early start.

Today, you’ll be exploring the northern coastline of the city with a visit to Manly Beach!

• Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Thrill Ride: 30 Minutes
• Sydney Speed Boat Adventure Harbour Tour

Take the Ferry to Manly Beach

Manly Beach is located on the northern shoreline of the city; it’s another of Australia’s most iconic beaches.

Getting here is all part of the experience because you can take a ferry ride along the river. Jump on the ferry at the harbor and cruise downriver in style.

The ferries are fantastic: they’re cheap, yet offer excellent views of the city (who needs an expensive river cruise?).

• Sydney’s Tall Ship Sailing Adventure on James Craig
• Romantic Sailing on Sydney Harbour
• Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise

Manly Beach

Once you’ve reached Manly, head straight to the beach. Soak up the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, take a swim to cool off, or just sit back and relax.

Locals claim that Manly is where Australian surfing began, so yes, you can surf here too!

• Sydney Scenic Flight by Seaplane
• Private Helicopter Flight Over Sydney and Beaches for 3 – 30 Minutes
• Private Sunset Helicopter Flight Over Sydney and Beaches for 3 – 30 Minutes

North Head Sanctuary Loop

From the beach, you can take a stroll along the coast. First, head south to Shelley Beach. From here, you can join the North Head Sanctuary Loop.

It’s a lovely walk around the peninsula that forms the northern head of the entrance to Sydney Harbor. The views are beautiful; you can see right out across the Pacific and back towards the city.

• Manly Snorkel Trip and Nature Walk with Local Guide
• Guided Kayaking Eco Tour through Sydney’s Middle Harbour
• Wollongong Tandem Skydiving from Sydney

The Rocks Pub Crawl

Take the ferry back to Sydney Harbor when you’ve explored Manly, and get ready for your last night out in Sydney.

A great place to spend your last evening will be The Rocks, the area you already explored on day one. This time, though, you can visit all the pubs and bars the area is known for – for a great end to your Sydney itinerary.

• Sydney The Rocks Historical Pub Tour with Drinks and Dinner
• Drink & Discover Secret Bar Walking Tour

Days 4 and 5: Day Trips From Sydney

While you will need more than 3 days to see the best of Sydney and the surrounding area, it is worth planning at least one day for day trips.

Blue Mountains

If you have only one extra day in Sydney, you have to visit the Blue Mountains . Located just an hour inland from the city, this is one of Australia’s most spectacular outdoor areas.

Head to the Three Sisters Lookout, where you’ll see the deep gorges below you and the iconic rock formations that give the area its name.

You can ride the Scenic Skyway across the canyon or take the scenic train into the valley.

• All-Inclusive Blue Mountains Tour in a Luxury Mercedes Sprinter
• Blue Mountains Day Tour Including Breakfast in the Aussie Bush
• Blue Mountains Private Tour from Sydney

Hawkesbury River

Escape the city by taking a trip to the Hawkesbury River, a worthy addition to any Sydney trip plan.

This beautiful area is surrounded by peaceful, outdoor scenery and is bordered by a national park on one bank.

Take a boat ride, drive from one small town to the next, or enjoy some great hiking!

• Walking with Wombats Day Tour: All Inclusive
• Full Day Sub-Tropical Rainforest Canyoning Adventure from Sydney
• Small-Group Hunter Valley Wine and Cheese Tasting Tour from Sydney

Take the highway south from Sydney, and your first stop will be Jervis Bay . This beautiful seaside community is home to what the locals claim is one of Australia’s best beaches.

That’s a huge claim, but when you see the beach for the first time, you might just agree. Spend your day relaxing on the soft sands or get active and enjoy the snorkeling because the water here is crystal clear.

Top 5 tours in Jervis Bay:

• Jervis Bay Whale Watching Cruise
• Jervis Bay Dolphin Watch Cruise
• Hiking The Castle in the spectacular Budawang Mountain Range
• Jervis Bay Passage Cruise
• Fishermans Paradise Eco-walk

Where to Stay in Sydney

When it comes to accommodation in Sydney, your options are really endless. You can find a place to stay on any budget, but of course there are a few that stand out above the crowd.

• Best Luxury Option: Radisson Blue Plaza Hotel
• Best Mid-Range Option: IBIS Sydney Darling Harbour
• Best Hostel: YHA Rocks

If You Have a Campervan…

If you are driving a campervan around Australia, like we did, and would rather stay in your van than a hotel, this is the best option for you.

We wanted to stay in our van, but we needed to make sure we were close enough to public transportation so we wouldn’t have to worry about driving our van into the city and paying loads of money for parking.

This wasn’t an easy task. Luckily, I stumbled on a website that touted the Lane Cove River Tourist Park is the place to camp within the city limits of Sydney.

After some research, I learned that the campsite is literally in the suburbs of Sydney, near North Ryde.

The subway stop was a 10-minute walk from the campground and would have you smack dab in the CBD in 30 minutes.  Metro tickets cost us $6 each for a return that lasted all day. You can’t really beat that.

The campground itself was set in a nice area with plenty of wildlife roaming in, out and around the grounds. The amenities were good and for a $39AUD per night powered camping site, you couldn’t go wrong.

We enjoyed our time at the campground and would recommend it to other camper vanners looking for a place to stay and park in Sydney.

Enjoy Your Trip to Sydney!

Sydney is one of the most enjoyable cities in the world. It is easy to navigate and there are many options for getting from point A to point B.

With so much to do in one place, it’s not hard to fill your itinerary. The food is amazing and the locals are very friendly. The atmosphere is truly wonderful.

There is plenty to see and do in the heart of the city and so much more to do on the outskirts of town that Sydney is definitely a vacationer’s dream destination.

More on Australia:

• 25 Top Things to Do in Australia (On Your First Visit!)
• Ultimate Sydney to Melbourne Drive Itinerary
• 30 Epic Things to Do in Melbourne
• Backpacking in Australia: 8 Week Recap & Travel Tips
• Should I Rent a Jucy Campervan in Australia?

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Sydney   Travel Guide

20 Best Things to Do in Sydney, Australia

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

• All Things To Do

Sydney Harbour Sydney Harbour free

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

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

Sydney Opera House Sydney Opera House

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

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

Sydney Harbour Bridge Sydney Harbour Bridge free

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

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

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Manly Beach Manly Beach free

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

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

The Rocks The Rocks free

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

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

Taronga Zoo Sydney Taronga Zoo Sydney

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

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

Darling Harbour Darling Harbour free

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

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

Coogee Beach Coogee Beach free

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

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

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

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

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

Australian National Maritime Museum Australian National Maritime Museum

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

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

Royal Botanic Garden Royal Botanic Garden free

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

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

Bondi Beach Bondi Beach free

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

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

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

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

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

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Hyde Park Barracks Museum Hyde Park Barracks Museum free

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

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

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

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

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

Chinese Garden of Friendship Chinese Garden of Friendship

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

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

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

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

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

Queen Victoria Building Queen Victoria Building free

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

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

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Cockatoo Island (Wareamah) Cockatoo Island (Wareamah)

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

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

Carriageworks Carriageworks

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

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

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7 DAYS IN Sydney- AN ITINERARY FOR A FIRST VISIT

If you have 7 days in Sydney, you are in luck. This is the perfect amount of time to get a good feel for the city and all it offers. If you only have three days, don’t worry, the days in this itinerary work independently, so just pick the ones that most appeal and save the rest for your next visit!

I am a born and bred Sydneysider who has been working with visitors for close to three decades. I regularly test this itinerary and tweak it to keep it current with changes. If you have questions by the time you reach the end of the page, feel free to ask me for help in our Facebook group .

How to spend a week in Sydney

Day one – take in the icons, day two – bays and beaches, day three – the blue mountains, day four – a day on the harbour, day five – explore the inner west, day six – harbour walks and wildlife, day seven – fashion, art and architecture.

This page may contain affiliate links. Read our full disclosure policy  for more information.

It might seem like a long time in one place, but we guarantee a week in Sydney is a great amount of time and with our itinerary, you will not run out of things to do!

Today it’s all about the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and stunning Sydney Harbour. These well-known sites are two of my personal favourite spots in the city, even as a local. They are views that never get old!

Morning in The Rocks

Most visitors head straight to the harbour; the pull to see this iconic waterfront is almost impossible to resist, so don’t. Whether you are full of energy or struggling to stay awake, there is something to suit down by Circular Quay, so make your way there. If the jetlag is real, then skip this and jump on a Sydney ferry. Spending time out on the water is invigorating, and it is one of the most beautiful ways to see the city.

Alternatively, if you’re raring to go, it’s time for your history lesson, discover our past on a self-guided walk around the Rocks .

Make your first stop at the Rocks Discovery Museum in Kendall Lane and after a quick look around this small but interesting collection.

Be sure to include:

• Foundation Park
• Observatory Hill
• At least one historic pub – the Glenmore has a great rooftop view.

If you are a history lover, then a stop at Susannah Place , a small museum that shows the way the area has changed over several decades. You will find it on Cumberland Street, and it’s well worth an hour. 

Afternoon at the Opera House and Botanic Gardens

If you have not already given in to lunch at the pub, consider the Museum of Contemporary Art rooftop cafe. It is on George Street near Circular Quay. Along with magnificent views, the menu is affordable and is themed to the current exhibition, so usually quite interesting.

Alternatively, make your way around past the ferry wharves to East Circular Quay, where the boardwalk is lined with restaurants. A local favourite is the Opera Bar, under the white umbrellas at the Opera House. If you don’t make it to Opera Bar today, be sure to come back. It’s a lovely spot to watch the sunset.

Opera House Tours run hourly and can be booked on the day in most cases – book online a couple of days before if you want to lock in a specific time.

If you are not keen to tour the Opera House, I suggest you make your way into the Botanic Gardens for an afternoon stroll. Botanic House in the Gardens is also a fantastic lunch option with a casual take away offering or the modern Australian restaurant Botanic House.

By now, I imagine you are well ready for a nap before dinner, so head to your hotel/accommodation and relax until dinner.

Sydney is not a city that eats late, so expect to book either early seating (before 6.30 pm) or late seating (usually 8 pm) in restaurants that require bookings. 

Most kitchens close by 10 pm, although this is changing slowly and more late-night dining is opening up.

Evening in the city

Don’t worry if you are too tired to do everything we have suggested. You have plenty of time with a week in town, so just pick and choose to suit your energy levels.

If you are staying in the CBD, consider Mr Wong for some high-end Asian cuisine, some Spanish from Bar Tapa, or check out our DIY Rocks Pub Crawl and dine on a classic Aussie pub meal in one of our most historic hotels.

You might enjoy a harbour dinner cruise this evening.

Explore the Harbour’s prettiest beaches, take a walk to a candy-striped lighthouse and soak up the coastal views

One of my favourite days to share with visitors begins at Barangaroo with breakfast at Wild Sage or Devon. If you are not a fan of breakfast, at least grab a coffee and pastry from Bourke Street Bakery.

From here you can walk via the Barangaroo Reserve to Circular Quay or, if you want to save your legs, take a ferry from here to the Quay to join the Watson’s Bay Ferry.

Morning in Watsons Bay

There was once a direct ferry to Watson’s Bay from Barangaroo. Sadly, they have stopped this and you will need to change ferries and join the F7 service to Watson’s Bay.

Once you arrive at Watson’s Bay, turn left and make your way along the beach to the end, then turn up onto the road. Follow it until you come to Camp Cove Beach.

At the end of Camp Cove Beach is the South Head Heritage Trail, an easy walk that will take you to the top of South Head and the pretty candy-striped Hornby Lighthouse.

Make your way back down to the park and across the road to check out the Gap. These sheet cliffs face out to the Pacific and were sadly the final resting place of several ships attempting to enter Sydney Harbour. 

Afternoon in Bondi

After lunch, it’s decision time. You have the 380 bus ride to think about it 😉 Do you want to chill out at the beach, do some shopping, hang out at Icebergs OR take the Iconic Bondi to Coogee Walk around to Bronte Beach where you can have a swim at the heritage-listed and very Instagramable Bronte Baths

Evening in Potts Point

Tonight, I suggest you check out one of the great dining options on Macleay Street in Potts Point. I am quite fond of Apollo, a modern Greek diner, but other good options include vegan favourite Yellow and Cho Cho San for Japanese food.

25 Free Things to do in Sydney on your First Visit

It’s time for a day outside the city to explore the UNESCO listed Blue Mountains, National Park. Either take the train on a do-it-yourself trip or join one of the many-day tours . You can also rent a car and drive up–the trip takes about 90 minutes whichever way you choose.

We have written extensively about the Blue Mountains on our Sydney Expert site, so take a look here for ideas on the best way to visit.

Your day on the harbour can be as extravagant or budget-conscious as you like. Today we explore to see Darling Harbour, Barangaroo and Manly either by ferry or private cruise.

Morning in Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour has plenty to keep you busy. Choose from the Chinese Garden, the huge children’s playground, Sydney Aquarium or Wildlife Sydney, and our favourite the Australia Maritime Museum.

Lunch in Barangaroo

When you start to feel the pangs of hunger, make your way to Barangaroo Wharf to either join a Sydney food tour or choose a restaurant for lunch with a view. Restaurants we enjoy include:

• Born – Spanish tapas
• Anason – Turkish
• Muum Maam – Thai
• Barangaroo House – Modern Australian

If you feel more like a picnic, pick up some takeaway and keep walking around to our afternoon walk at Barangaroo Reserve

Barangaroo , once an old shipping container terminal, is being transformed into a huge new waterfront precinct. It is 2/3 complete and well worth an hour or two to explore. When designing the parkland, records from Sydney’s early days were consulted, and they planted a waterfront reserve with species that grew here before settlement. Over 75,000 native plants are on the site, and they have recently introduced native bees.

Exit the park near the pub on the top of the hill, the Hotel Palisade. If you fancy a drink with a view, pop into their rooftop bar, the Henry Deane, where you will get views up and down the Harbour. Take Argyle Street back down to Circular Quay and find the ferry to Manly.

Afternoon in Manly

There is no better way to enjoy the afternoon sun in Sydney than on the ferry to Manly. The 30-minute ride takes you across the heads and “seven miles from Sydney and 1000 miles from care” a holiday slogan from the 1940s that stands today.

Walk the Corso down to the ocean-facing beach and, if the weather is nice, continue around to Shelly Beach, a local favorite. Depending on the season, you might like to jump into the water and explore the marine reserve with your snorkel and mask. There is usually plenty to see in the water here.

Head back to the wharf for sunset drinks – there are usually some good happy hour deals at the Manly Wharf Hotel, and they have the perfect spot to watch the day draw to a close. You will be spoilt for choice when dinner time arrives. Ride the ferry home and enjoy the city lights from the water.

If you want to keep enjoying impressive views, consider dinner at Infinity in Sydney Tower.

It’s time to leave the city streets and harbour behind and get out and explore the inner suburbs. Get ready for a day of street art, craft beer and cheap eats.

Morning in Newtown

It’s been a pretty hectic week so far, so a sleep-in may be in order today. There is no rush to get through a list of things to do today. It’s a meandering day. You can follow a longer street art walk or just take the train to Newtown and wander the unique shops and fascinating back streets of St Peters, Enmore, and Newtown. This is also a very budget-friendly day!

Almost every side street rewards with murals, but be sure to wander Lennox Street, parallel to the main thoroughfare, King Street, for some excellent examples. Turn off at Australia Street and hunt down Black Star Pastry for a coffee and a slice of watermelon cake. When you work up a thirst, make your way to Young Henry’s in the back streets of Enmore to try the goods at one of Sydney’s first craft breweries.

After a couple of drinks, make your way to north Newtown and head to Hollis Park ( map reference ) for some of the prettiest streets in inner Sydney. From here it’s a 20-minute walk to Chippendale, past Carriageworks (Saturday Market), and the western side of Redfern.

If you want someone to lead you around this area book a tour with Local Sauce .

Afternoon in Redfern and Chippendale

It’s an interesting walk with plenty to see along the way. I suggest a quick stop at the “This is Redfern” artwork by Reko Rennie at 36 Caroline Street and the White Rabbit Gallery in Balfour Street (free).

If you are not in the mood to walk, wander back to King Street and take any city bus to George Street. Get off at Central Park Mall, 28 Broadway.

Dinner in Chippendale or Darling Square

You are now in Chippendale, a revitalised suburb that is home to creative businesses and a new housing and shopping development on an old brewery site. There is plenty here to satisfy even the fussiest of eaters.

On a budget, we suggest you try Spice Alley. Fancy some Aussie wine, Handpicked Cellar Door on Kensington Street is a great spot to try a few distinct drops. The front bar of the Old Clare Hotel is always fun, and the decor alone makes it worth a look. For a sit-down meal, the Sicilian restaurant on Olio on Kensington Street is nearby; we also like Mekong. If nothing here takes your fancy, it’s a short walk to Darling Square and lots more choices.

It’s time to walk off all the delicious food you have been discovering with a harbour bush walk and a pretty harbour beach.

Morning on a harbourside track

Before we start, I want you to take the elevator at the eastern end of the Quay near wharf number one up onto the Cahill Expressway viewing platform for an extraordinary view of the harbour. Today we will take a ferry over to Mosman and explore the harbour foreshore of the lower north shore. If your visit to the Blue Mountains did not include a stop at Featherdale and you want to get up close and personal with some of the Aussie natives, then perhaps the first 2 hours of your day should be spent at the zoo.

But save some energy because the real fun today is the Taronga to Balmoral Walk . Truly one of the most stunning harbour walks and a fabulous way to round out your week in Sydney and get ready to say goodbye to the harbour.

The track takes about 90 minutes, but you could spend as long as 2.5 hours if you stop along the way to swim at one of the tiny beaches, snack at one of the cafes, or just take hundreds of photos like I always do. You finish your walk at the beautiful Balmoral Beach, home to some outstanding dining and one of the best fish and chip shops in the city.

Afternoon at Balmoral

We think Bottom of the Harbour seafood at Balmoral does the best fish and chips in the city, perfect for a beach picnic.

If you prefer the idea of a sit-down lunch, there are no wrong choices here, so let your wallet decide. The Boathouse on the pier offers great casual lunches and for something more upmarket Bathers Pavilion is the go. From Balmoral Beach, buses return to Taronga Wharf or up to the main street in Mosman and into the city. Take your pick; if your legs still have something left in them, then I suggest the bus to Mosman and a stroll through the shops there before you join a bus to the northern side of the Harbour Bridge. You can then walk back into the city across the bridge if you have not already or jump on any of the buses that come along. Most will take you to Wynyard.

Dinner near home

This was a pretty big day, so you are probably ready for a quiet night. I suggest something near your accommodation. If nothing jumps out, ask your concierge for a tip or read over to the Facebook group and ask a local.

Explore the inner suburbs of Paddington, Darlinghurst, Elizabeth Bay and Woolloomooloo

Morning in Paddington

Take the bus to Oxford Street in Paddington to explore today. “Paddo” as locals know it, is full of row after row of Victorian terrace houses, in fact, so many that it has earned a national trust listing. If you are a lover of architecture, you will enjoy strolling the streets here and seeing how old and new are being blended while keeping the streetscape intact. There are plenty of cafes perfect for an Aussie breakfast, avocado on toast, poached eggs, or a veggie-packed green bowl. Try funky köket café for a healthy option or Ampersand bookshop for something sustaining. If you want to save some $$ grab a pastry and take away coffee and head across the road to the Paddington Reservoir Gardens where you can sit below street level in relative peace

Wander the length of Oxford Street and check out the shops, fashion, and design are the themes of the day here. If you visit on a Saturday, I suggest a visit to Paddington Market, held on the public school grounds. Make your way down Oxford Street towards the city. You will pass along a sandstone wall; this is the Victoria Barracks. There is a small museum open to the public on Thursdays. A little further along, you will come to Victoria Street on your right. Turn here to make your way into Darlinghurst.

Afternoon in Elizabeth Bay and Potts Point

Elizabeth Bay and Potts Point are filled with Art déco delights. There are some charming streets here. Be sure to stroll Onslow Street, where you will find the lovely Arthur McElhone Reserve and historic Elizabeth Bay House , Macleay Street, Challis Ave, and Victoria Street.

At the city end of Victoria Street, you will come to a bar called The Butler , a fabulous spot for afternoon drinks. There is a good city view from the back terrace. Don’t drink too much; you have a set of the infamous Woolloomooloo Stairs to come. When you leave the Butler, head down the Butler Stairs and through the backstreets of Woolloomooloo to the wharf. From here, you can make your way back into the city via Mrs. Macquarie Point and the Botanic Gardens.

We hope you have a wonderful time on your visit to Sydney.

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

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$341 Find cheap flights to Sydney

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to sydney departing on 8/10. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to sydney.

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Flights to sydney - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to sydney to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest flight to sydney.

The cheapest airline ticket to Sydney from the United States in the last 72 hours was $341 one-way, and $744 round-trip on the route from San Francisco to Sydney . The most popular route is from Los Angeles to Sydney and the cheapest ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $744 round-trip.

How much is a flight to Sydney?

On average, a flight to sydney costs $874. the cheapest price found on kayak in the last 2 weeks cost $114 and departed from honolulu. the most popular routes on kayak are honolulu to sydney which costs $449 on average, and los angeles to sydney, which costs $1,127 on average., see prices from:, what is the cheapest day to fly to sydney, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to sydney is monday where tickets can be as cheap as $1,254. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is friday, where prices are $1,328 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to sydney, the cheapest month for flights to sydney is november, where tickets cost $1,629 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are january and december, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $2,695 and $2,670 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is may with an average price of $1,498., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to sydney, the cheapest time of day to fly to sydney is generally in the evening, when flights cost $1,523 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to sydney is generally in the morning, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $1,712., what is a good deal for flights to sydney, if you’re looking for cheap airfare to sydney, 25% of our users found tickets to sydney for the following prices or less: from honolulu $150 one-way - $346 round-trip, from los angeles $829 one-way - $968 round-trip, from san francisco $911 one-way - $1,127 round-trip., how far in advance should i book a flight to sydney, to get a below average price, you should book around 1 week before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 13 days before departure., which airlines fly to sydney, qantas airways, united airlines and american airlines are the most frequent flyers to sydney from united states. see the amount of flights per week for popular airlines flying to sydney., which airline offers the most flights to sydney, of the 6 airlines that fly to sydney, qantas airways offers the most flights, with around 1,364 per week, followed by virgin australia with 558 flights per week., how long is the flight to sydney, the duration of your flight to sydney depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to sydney on kayak are from san francisco , which takes 14h 50m, los angeles , which takes 14h 55m, newark , which takes 22h 25m, and new york , which takes 22h 40m., how many direct flights to sydney are there each day, there are around 14 direct flights from within united states to sydney every day. most flights depart at night, with 10:00 pm the most common departure time and 87% of flights departing at night., how many direct flights to sydney are there each week, each week there are around 97 direct flights from within united states to sydney. the most common day for departures is saturday, with 16% of flights taking off on this day., how many long-haul flights are there to sydney each week, there are not any medium-haul (3-6 hour flight duration) or short-haul (up to 3 hour flight duration) flights to sydney. instead, there are 98 long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration), with the most arriving from los angeles., how many cities have direct flights to sydney, from the united states, there are direct flights to sydney from 4 cities. the city with the most direct flights is los angeles, with 58 direct flights each week., good to know, when to book flights to sydney, faqs - booking sydney flights, what are the stopover options for the us to sydney flights.

The stopover options for the US to Sydney flights depend on your airline and departure city. If you’re flying with Air Canada from New York, expect stops in Toronto and Vancouver. Passengers flying from New York with Delta and United Airlines should expect stops in Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis, and Washington. Hawaiian Airlines offer single-stop flights from Los Angeles to SYD with a common layover in Oahu. If you're flying with Qantas Airways from Los Angeles, expect a layover in Brisbane.

Does Kingsford Smith International Airport offer accessible services?

Yes. SYD offers hearing loops in selected areas of both Domestic and International Terminals. Wheelchairs are provided by the airlines flying through the airport. We recommend making reservations before your travel to ensure availability. The airport has also reserved two accessible pick-up areas on the Arrivals Levels. Sunflowers lanyards are available at the Service Center on Level 3 of International Terminal 1. Passengers with hidden disabilities can wear these lanyards to get support through the airport's processes.

Which hotels offer free airport shuttles from Kingsford Smith International Airport?

If your flight is scheduled for late arrival in Sydney, consider spending the night at Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport. This hotel is within a 10min walk from SYD's Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 and it offers free airport shuttles. It also offers baggage storage, Wi-Fi, laundry services, an onsite restaurant, bar, snack bar, and kid-friendly amenities. Alternatively, you can stay at Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel. This hotel is opposite the International Terminal.

How can I access the lounges at Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport?

You can access the lounges at SYD by getting a day pass, through membership, or paying at the door. Air New Zealand Lounge is next to Gates 59-63 in the International Departures area in Terminal 1 while Plaza Premium Lounge is near Gate 24 in Terminal 1. The House is Gates 51-63 in Terminal 2. You can find Qantas Club on Level 4 of Terminal 1 and opposite Gates 4 and 5 in Terminal 3.

How can I get from Kingsford Smith Airport to Brighton Le Sands?

Brighton Le Sands is a popular dining area that is known for its Greek cuisine. It is only a 10-minute drive south of the Kingsford Smith Airport. To get there, you can take the Line 42 bus from the airport or if you prefer, you can take a taxi or shuttle.

What kind of services does Kingsford Smith Airport offer?

Several terminals offer free Wi-Fi at Kingsford Smith Airport. Showers are free at Kingsford Smith Airport, but you will need to bring your own soap and a towel. You will also find free water bottle refill stations located throughout the airport.

Does Kingsford Smith Airport in Sydney have play areas for children?

For those that booked flights to Sydney and are traveling with children, you will want to look for the play areas that are located in Terminal 1. You can also stop at the Kid’s Cinema, which has a comfortable area for children to watch kid-friendly shows. This is also located in Terminal 1.

What can I see near Kingsford Smith Airport while waiting for a connecting flight?

If you have four hours or more between your flights, you may want to take a short train ride to see the Sydney Opera House. It’s only a 5 minute walk from the train. Also a short walk away is the Royal Botanical Garden, which is stunning and well worth a visit. There is an airport train that goes from the airport to the center of the city. So, feel free to take a walk around.

How far is Sydney from central Sydney?

Central Sydney is 5 miles away from Sydney.

What is the name of Sydney’s airport?

Sydney is served by Sydney, also commonly referred to as Kingsford Smith or Sydney. The airport code is SYD.

On average, a flight to Sydney costs $874. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $114 and departed from Honolulu Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Sydney?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Sydney.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Sydney?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Sydney is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Sydney?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Sydney with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Sydney?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Sydney up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Sydney

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Sydney flight deals.
• If you are considering flights to Sydney, you will be flying into Sydney Airport which is also referred to as Kingsford Smith Airport . Kingsford Smith Airport is the busiest airport in Australia and has three terminals. The international terminal is separated from the two domestic terminals by a runway so it is recommended that those needing to get from one to the other allow for extra time.
• Your transportation options at Kingsford Smith Airport include car, taxi, shuttle, bus or train. Kingsford Smith Airport is located 13 minutes from Sydney. You can take the Airport Link train located at the north end of the terminal to reach many areas in the city.
• If you want to save money on your transportation costs, make sure that you purchase an Opal card . This is the integrated payment system for public transportation in Sydney. By using an Opal card, you will get the lowest possible rate when using public transport. You can add money to your card at bus stations and convenience stores.
• In Sydney, shift changeover time for taxis is 2 a.m. and 2 p.m. It’s next to impossible to find a taxi between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. and 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. in Sydney. If you need transportation from the airport to your hotel or an attraction during these times, it’s a much better option to look for an Uber or a Go Catch. Go Catch is a popular Australian version of Uber.
• Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) offers luggage storage lockers . In Terminal 1, the lockers are near Blooming Trails Florist in the Arrivals Level. You will find other lockers near Carousel 6 in Terminal 2.
• ANZ Bank runs a full-service branch at SYD. The branch is near Check-in J on Level 2 of the International Terminal. It operates from 5:30 am to 9 pm.
• If you need to say a prayer on arrival at SYD, you’re welcome to use the airport’s prayer room . It is after security on Level 3 of Terminal 1.
• If you’re tagging your pet or service animal along for the trip to Sydney, you will be glad to know SYD offers service animal relief areas . The animal relief areas are available on the Arrivals Level of the International Terminal 1. In Terminal 2, the relief area is opposite Movida in the Departures Concourse.
• If you’re feeling stressed from your travels, be sure to visit Terminal 2 and stop by the Lorna Jane Active Living Room. You’ll find a yoga room with mats and equipment as well as the Healthy Nourish Cafe where you can grab a quick bite to eat.
• On average, every passenger on a flight to Sydney from the US emits about 4,119 kg of C02. Air Canada, United Airlines, and Delta offer some of the most sustainable flights from the US to Sydney. These airlines offer flights on this route and emit about 41%, 34%, and 33% less carbon.

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United States to Sydney Kingsford Smith

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, +75 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +76 more

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ANA, Aegean Airlines, +73 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, +71 more

ANA, Aegean Airlines, +72 more

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ANA, Aegean Airlines, +78 more

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Sydney Kingsford Smith to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to sydney.

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

This flight was ridiculous. I had to have a connecting flight from New York to orlando Florida??? The flight left late and because it was a short flight there was no first class amenities. I had one alcohol drink. The flight crew was fine, but it sure did not feel like first class. Delta to me dropped the ball by giving me a connecting flight. By the time we got to Raleigh we would have missed the next flight. Lucky for me the flight never came so now I was stuck waiting for a later flight that came in late also.

Our flight was delayed in Atlanta. The staff could have gave us an explanation for the delay and how long it would be.

I liked the ease of checking in, luggage check in, wheel chair assistance, boarding and flight.

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive. I also upgraded to comfort + , I didn’t feel it was worth it. There was no benefit

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive.

They did a fine job. Can't wait to use Delta in the future.

There was a loud squeaky sound the whole time we were flying.

Had a broken tray in business class. Crew just shrugged it off.

Flight delay was informed at the last minute. Food quality is not up to Qantas standard I was unable to book an online boarding pass on any of my 6 flights.

Rescheduled after ticket purchased and issued, not 2 or 3 times and not a fourth but by 5 times, by Qantas, that's right, 5 changes! Forcing an overnight stay in Chile and need for visa. Qantas can no longer provide basic services as a national or international service provider. Professionalism is extinct and the provider needs to be mentored and educated in perfecting who to operate as an airline. Qantas is the spirit of Australian dissatisfaction.

Amazing! Was put on the earlier flight and I requested for an aisle seat and was given it. Thanks Qantas!

The crew were amazing - A great job. They made me feel special and valued.

Boarding was terrible - the ground staff member Fredeya at lax was more military than customer service, have never encountered a customer service representative as rude as her. Apart from that all other staff were wonderful and the flight was good.

The flight met my expectations. It left and landed on time

My bag didn’t make it but otherwise it was a great experience.

I travelled first class from LAX to MEL and it was a series of disasters which I put down to lax staff who dont care and a suck it attitude to customers - its all lip service and no delivery. The flight was delayed due to aircraft refuellers putting on 300,000 litres of fuel on a 380Q1. I entered via the first class bridge loaded my bags in the overhead locker. the lady in the next isle in first class also had hers in there as she wasn't allocated a locker over her seat. The attendant asked would I like a champagne - I said yes please. he promptly delivered a empty glass and the glass left on the desk. Then he ignored me for 20 minutes. When i asked him is he out of champagne he gave me the usual rubbish I was distracted. There are four staff and 15 first class passengers - give me a break. the glass stayed there on takeoff and then was still there 9 hours into the flight. When I arrived to my seat I told him I had eaten and wouldn't be eating on the flight - it was 10.30pm. Yet he comes by later 4am ( I happen to be awake) and says are you eating with us? I asked for the bed to be made up - they put a 3 inch 7cm mattress on the chair but as usual the break in the chair - the mattress sinks into it - so I had to move it around so I didnt get my back sunk in the V - Im 187cm tall. The cabinet next to 1K is for staff bags and the toilet is next door. I tried to avoid this seat but couldn't change - in to the flight 8 hours and the cabin rest change over kicks in - this attendant is shining his torch in my eyes taking out and returning his bag. Then the toilet starts flushing and forget trying to get to sleep. Yet no-one else needed torch! 11 hours into the 15.5 hour flight I ask for breakfast - I order two poached eggs, bacon on multigrain toast, tomatos and mushrooms. I get no bacon or toast and have to order it and the eggs are cold. Then I order a coffee which is so badly spilled - and not by air turbulence she brings back a serviette and replaces the first one rather than providing a clean dry saucer! First class in Qantas is a joke as the staff just don't get the meaning of prompt service and attention to detail. I will fly business class rather than first on Qantas as its better value for money but I have been very impressed with United First Polaris and given I fly internationally every month this is going to be my choice.

Experience was great. My only advice is to have a pasta dish on the menu. Otherwise everything was excellent.

Flights delayed multiple times, travellers requests for updates ignored. Qantas continues to desatisfy travelling basics.

Due to one crew member not showing up to work, our flight was significantly delayed causing us to miss our connecting flight in Houston to Mississippi causing us to be delayed by more than 6 hours and missing our event all together. Very disappointing. All because ONE crew member called in sick. United did grant us a $15 meal voucher, which was a small but appreciated concession that I wasn’t able to use because I ordered my lunch and paid for it before applying the concession, and the staff said it was too late to use it. Ugh! We also had a TWO delay coming back from Mississippi, but that was on American Airlines and it was due to weather, so not their fault. Anyway, not at all impressed with United’s handling of our flight and the HUGE disappointment of missing our important family event for our 90 year old mother. All that money and all that stress and emotions for nothing. Having to wait the hour to bring an employee from LAX seemed like something that should not have happened. Why don’t you have a local back-up? Santa Ana is not a little airport in a rural area.

Flight delayed from Cape Town to Washington then got diverted to miami and in miami we had to fend for ourselves , im still trying to get to Shreveport now

delay several times and wait extra long to board. no entertainment service because there are problem for some rows. always encounter some delays for the last flight of the day.

I just wrote a text which was supposed to be for the flight from Denver to spokane not Frankfurt to Denver.

On time every leg of the journey and exceptional staff at counter, gate, and on board. I haven’t travelled in US for a long time and was genuinely surprised how pleasant this was.

Hated every minute of it. This flight should have only taken 1.5hrs but was delayed over 10hours. Now I am being told I cannot be compensated or refunded my ticket price or extra leg room, which I purchased but did not receive, because the airline is throwing the blame on the 3rd party I purchased tickets through and 3rd party putting the blame on airline. No one wants to help. They received their money and that's all they care about. Im going on 3 days of still trying to get to my final destination, had to cancel car rental, car insurance and hotel. Currently staying in airport until hotels open up. Thank you Lufthansa, Kayak, Underpricer and United for making this trip the worst ever.

The delays (5 hrs) were a comedy of errors, and the multiple safety issues encountered were very concerning.

flight delays, staff only communicating when pushed, food service lasting a grand total of 7 minutes, stuck in seat from 45mins into flight until landing

Crew was great and did their best to make us comfortable and captain came out at the beginning to announce why the flight was delayed, weather situation up ahead, and kept us updated throughout the flight.

the flight from Tampa departed with a delay. The food on board was poor, usually on international airlines alcoholic beverages are offered free of charge , but here it was for a fee, the cutlery was wooden, there were no hot drinks (tea, coffee). Unfortunately, I didn't take pictures of the portions of food, but it wouldn't have been enough for a child either.And in the future, I will try not to use the services of this airline

Just get Economy Plus for international flights, so worth it the extra room, bigger seats…

This flight is frequently delayed. The connections seemingly are more frequently delayed. I’ve missed connections as a result twice on the same route to charlotte then Charleston. Final destination arrival has been the next day, twice in a row. No pilots, no crew. Too many excuses. Unfortunately, my days with American are over.

Entertainment was okay not because anything was wrong but it is a short flight so having no wifi is annoying but understandable. Crew was outstanding as usual

It was spectacular. I had basic Economy and was given so much space and their seats lean back so far. Staff was superb, food was superb, everything was superb, Finnair is Fantastic.

Those seats were way too narrow. I had the middle seat, one person was a very skinny person and we still couldn’t avoid touching each other anytime one of us moved. The other person was larger and we were basically sitting in each others lap the entire flight. There was zero entertainment. The flight was long enough to justify tvs, but no. Gotta sit there in your infant seat and twiddle your thumbs.

The Flight attendant had an attitude and didn't allow anyone any time to prepare for landing despite being absent throughout the entire trip

Flight boarded without pilots. Sat on plane for 3 hrs. after over an hour late boarding. Plane never took off. Had to deplane near midnight. Line for rebooking was 3 hours + long. I had to leave.

The flight was great but board was a nightmare. The gate was changed 4 times during the layover period

The experience was great and much better than the flight going out. of course I was in first class but the service was excellent

Cold air blew constantly on my legs almost making me numb.

The flight was very uncomfortable and there was no snacks served for the 13 hours international flight. In addition, the flight was delayed 3 hours

Due to a strike taking place with the airline, it negatively impacted my flight in multiple ways. My flight was delayed over 2 hours and the food served was mediocre at best.

Terrible experience! All flights delayed, staff had no idea of what they were doing, and at the end luggage lost for 2 days!

Cabin crew were great. Seats are criminal for tall people

Flight was delayed 1.5 hrs due to problem with a previous flight to mine; I was informed appropriately via Text & Email, however, website did not keep up with messages sent by nearly an hour. When checking-in warm & friendly reception at check-in desk until female Air Canada Rep noticed my flight number and instantly pivoted to a condescending & sarcastic comments about getting my bag checked in since I’m running so late; then tone instantly changed again few minutes later when she muttered, “Oh, they’ve delayed it” another sign systems & worse front line staff, not fully informed or simply not reading their flight status updates. Flight crew were very friendly & did a great job trying to make up lost time due to the delay.

It was great, love the experience and will definitely recommend 👌. Communication was great

My flight was great! Gate attendants and crew were great… pleasant and in good spirits. Flight delayed several hours and we were well informed of the status while on plane. Thank you!

The fact that I got to Toronto alive and well and safe is a huge plus. I thank the captain and crew for a safe flight The comfort of the aircraft leaves much to be desired. Human beings should not have to be that cramped and squashed on a flight that we pay a lot for and even have to pay for lousy food choices The cabin crew were pleasant and helpful Kudos to them as the flight was packed to capacity and there was a lot of work for them in a short space of time All in all a good experience, but too cramped

It was great to check carryon luggage at no charge when there was no room for ours. A hidden benefit of having low-tier tickets. Also great to stay off plane as long as possible. Airline gave us seats we wanted on this last leg, again at no charge.

Fresh fuit or veg snacks would be so great, but there are two good restaurants in Denver airport. Try Etais UDIS or Freshens DIA for nutritious delicious pita sandwiches/ donairs and crepes in Freshens.

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Cheap flights to Sydney ( SYD)

Get started finding a cheap flight to Sydney on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

We recommend using the ‘Flexible Dates’ calendar at the top of the page to see the price of plane tickets on the surrounding dates. This allows you to pick the cheapest days to fly if your trip allows flexibility and score cheap flight deals to Sydney.

Roundtrip prices range from $73 - $839, and one-ways to Sydney start as low as $37.

Be aware that choosing a non-stop flight can sometimes be more expensive while saving you time. And routes with connections may be available at a cheaper rate.

Airlines that fly to Sydney ( SYD)

You have several options for which airline you choose to travel with to Sydney. There are 10 airlines flying into SYD: Jetstar. 

Cheap plane tickets may be available from different airlines at different times and with unique terms. It’s best to understand the details of each airline’s offer before judging its value.

For example, if you plan to check a bag or bring a carry-on, check whether the cheap airfare deal includes a baggage allowance. If not, verify whether the baggage fee is higher than the difference of other airline plane ticket deals offering free checked/carry-on baggage in exchange for a slightly higher airfare. 

Additionally, your preferred frequent flyer membership programs may influence your choice of cheap airline. Expedia allows you to enter your membership numbers during checkout to earn points from your airline and Expedia Rewards—all while getting a great deal and planning all your travel in one online platform.

Find the best deals

At Expedia, we source many flight deals from multiple providers, so you can easily find the best deals that are right for you. A great strategy for getting the best deals can be to make sure you book and travel at the optimal times. Airfare to Sydney (SYD) varies throughout the year based on seasonal demand. You’ll see the lowest rates for roundtrips to SYD in May and in May for one-ways.

Cancellation & flexibility

To change or cancel eligible flights, go to ‘My Trips’ and navigate to your itinerary. If you booked within the last 24-hours, you might be able to cancel your flight for free. Learn more about flight changes or cancellations from our customer service portal . Some plane tickets are available with no change fees, which you can filter for during your search.

Frequently asked questions

• Wherever you’re heading, flying can be a pleasant experience if you’re properly prepared. First, pack your passport (or a valid ID), travel documents and medications. Next, toss in a little extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite series are good choices. If you plan to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and noise-canceling headphones are also worth squeezing in.
• There’s a list of items you shouldn’t pack in your carry-on too. Flammables, sharps and explosives are strictly prohibited in the cabin — they often include knives of any sort, aerosol cans and flares. Some sporting equipment, like baseball bats and martial arts weapons, also generally can’t go in your hand luggage. Your airline’s website will have all the details about what you can and can’t bring on board.
• Opt for comfort rather than fashion when flying. Dress in layers and wear natural materials as they allow moisture and air to pass through and keep you cool. Cabin temperatures typically get cooler on long-haul flights, so bring a hoodie or similar and always wear sneakers or enclosed shoes.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It’s the result of blood clotting caused by inactivity and poor circulation. Wandering up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated can help prevent this developing. Wearing compression socks or tights also helps to lessen your risk.

Get up to 100% off your flight to Sydney when booking a Flight + Hotel

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• Chicago to Sydney (ORD - SYD)
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Crown Towers Sydney

Sydney, Australia

• Alternatives

Situated in the heart of the Barangaroo precinct, Crown Towers Sydney provides easy access to the CBD, as well as both Darling and Circular Quay harbour areas. The perfect location to explore all of Sydney's must-see attractions. The hotel is contemporary and stylish, offering sophisticated, modern decor, intuitive technology and unparalleled views.

A modern and luxurious hotel to base yourself at whilst exploring the endless delights of Sydney and it's surrounds. A great hotel for families and couples alike.

OUR RATING: Deluxe

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Australia specialists

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4575
• Make an inquiry

Photos of Crown Towers Sydney

There is a large choice of rooms and suites available, with something to suit everyone, whether you're looking for room for all the family, or simply the best view in town. All hotel guests will have access to high speed Wi-Fi, an infinity pool, spa and state-of-the-art gymnasium.

Sydney Crown Towers is located in the Barangaroo precinct of the city, close to the newest and most desirable restaurants and bars in Sydney. Surrounded by parklands and views of the harbour, it's the perfect place to be based whilst you explore this lively, metropolitan city.

Food and drink

There are three fantastic restaurants to choice from during your stay. Fine dining restaurant Oncore by Clare Smyth, a three-time Michelin Star chef, world renowned Japanese restaurant, Nobu, and all day dining at Epicurean, which offers unrivalled views across Sydney.

Tour ideas in Sydney

Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Crown Towers Sydney as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.

By the beach

13 days from $4,440pp

Australia & New Zealand uncovered

20 days from $11,900pp

Highlights of Australia — city, Outback & reef

13 days from $9,450pp

Australia family tour: Sydney, national parks & Great Barrier Reef

14 days from $4,470pp

Coast, outback & reef, the eco friendly way

22 days from $8,735pp

Ultimate luxury tour of Australia

17 days from $38,900pp

Luxury Australia family expedition

14 days from $9,995pp

Southeast discovered

18 days from $4,985pp

Sydney to Auckland voyage with Silversea Cruises

21 days from $16,415pp

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map, alternative places to stay nearby.

Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.

Amora Jamison Hotel

Capella Sydney

Harbour Rocks Hotel

Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Experiences while staying here.

The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.

'Cruise Like A Local Lunch Cruise' with Sensational Sydney Cruises

Jump aboard a 16 m (52 ft) motor yacht and embark on a four-hour cruise taking in the famous sights as well as the lesser known coves and beaches of the harbor in Sydney.

Blue Mountains private tour

Visit an ancient Aboriginal site, admire the views from outstanding lookout points, examine rock formations, and learn about the unusual plants and wildlife that abound the area.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb has become a legendary activity for any visitor of Sydney. The three and a half hour excursion takes you over the arch to the summit of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, giving you wonderful 360 degree views of the Harbour, including the iconic Opera House.

Sydney and nearby places

• The Blue Mountains 51 miles away
• Kangaroo Valley 72 miles away
• Hunter Valley 76 miles away
• Jervis Bay 93 miles away
• Port Stephens 95 miles away
• Tilba Tilba 183 miles away
• Bermagui 189 miles away
• The Sapphire Coast 202 miles away
• Merimbula 222 miles away
• Bellingen 256 miles away

• Maheep Kapoor, Neelam Kothari and other Bollywood's 'Fabulous Wives' paint Sydney red

Maheep Kapoor, Neelam Kothari and other Bollywood's 'Fabulous Wives' paint Sydney red

From cake-cutting to paparazzi gifts: Inside Varun Dhawan & Natasha Dalal's baby shower extravaganza!

“Syd this might be your cutest and most iconic post yet,” one fan commented.

Another post from Sunday saw Sweeney dancing on the beach during sunset as a mariachi band played music behind her. 

The day prior, Sweeney shared an Instagram carousel detailing her attempt at kitesurfing before having a total wipeout moment . 

“Sorry i couldn’t make it i had a board meeting ,” she captioned the upload. 

The cover photo showed Sweeney standing on the seat of a boat with a harness around her midsection while wearing water shoes.

In the first video, her friends could be heard hyping her up as a jetski helped to power her into the air. The Euphoria alum got a bit of lift before she came down into the water as the video ended.

Sweeney looked like a pro in a second clip with no wipeout in sight. 

She appeared to be extremely focused as she glided across the waves while a man’s voice instructed her off-camera. 

“Good! Let that bar out a little bit. Lean back, yes!” he said as she got closer. “Bar out a little, good!”

sydney sweeney/instagram

In another video, Sweeney let out a nervous scream as she flew completely off of her board while holding on to the kitesurfing bar. 

“Oh dear,” the man’s voice said.

After landing in the water, Sweeney was a good sport about the blooper. 

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

“I flew!” she yelled back to the boat while laughing. Her carousel also included a cheeky photo in her swim gear as she looked back at the camera.

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Autumn Sale – Australia to India, fares starting from AUD 499

Booking period: 22nd - 26th apr’24.

*T&C apply

Elevate your journey to an unforgettable flying experience with Air India. Get discount on Business and Economy Class tickets for flights operating from Melbourne / Sydney to India.  Economy class flight prices start from AUD 499.

Booking Period: 22 nd April to 26 th April’24

Travel Period:

22 nd Apr – 9 th Jun'24;

6 th Jul - 21 st Nov'24;

15 th Jan - 31 st Mar'25

* Terms and Conditions:

• Booking under this offer are open from 0001 hours on 22 nd April 2024 to 2359 hours on 26 th April 2024 (India local date & time).
• The special fares are valid for travel between: 22 nd Apr – 9 th Jun'24; 6 th Jul - 21 st Nov'24; 15 th Jan - 31 st Mar'25
• This sale is applicable for Economy and Business Class cabin.
• Limited seats are available under this offer on a first-come, first-served basis.
• The offer is applicable for both one-way and return journeys.
• The offer will not be applicable on group bookings.
• The bookings made under this offer will be governed by applicable change and cancellation charges. 
• The operating aircraft could be changed due to operational reasons.
• The offer is open on all channels, including Air India website, mobile app, ATOs, CTOs and through authorised travel agents

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