This ultimate guide to things to do in Sydney is a comprehensive guide to all the best things to do in Sydney, from day trips and short stays to long-term adventures. Whether you’re new to Sydney or a longtime local, this guide has something for you!
Sydney was originally established as a colonial penal colony, which has preserved its rich history in the narrow cobbled laneways and historic buildings. The Gadigal Aboriginal people can be seen on guided tours of the Rocks, and there are good museums with exhibits centered around Sydney’s history.
Sydney still includes the unique mix of adventure and fun that brings visitors from all over the world. In addition to plenty of amazing activities, Sydney has a number of day trip destinations, including the city’s waterfront, nearby attractions and beautiful Northern Beaches.
Discover the top things to see and do in Sydney, Australia with this list of recommendable spots.
Opera House
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sydney Opera House has been looked up to since it first opened its doors on 20 October 1973. It’s elegant shape and facade resembles some seashell or billowing sails as it rests on a finger of land overlooking the stunning Sydney Harbor.
With a plethora of options to visit the Sydney Opera House, you can take a photo from the harbor and explore inside at your leisure. The Opera House not only contains theaters and studios, but also has a concert hall and cinema.
The Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour let you learn about history while touring the famous building. This is a flexible ticket that allows you to join any of the daily tours, starting every half hour from 9am to 5pm.
Beaches in Sydney
Sydney has some of the best beaches in the world. From Bondi to Coogee, there are beaches for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best beaches in Sydney:
Bondi Beach
Sydney’s Bondi beach is a central point that draws in visitors from around Australia and abroad. Its clear blue water and white sand, along with its surfers, creates a perfect encounter for those interested in relaxing on the beach.
Bondi Beach is well known for its water sport scene and nature. Though you may be visiting for the day or staying there for a week or more, make sure to check out Bondi Beach!
Manly Beach Sydney
With its proximity to shops, restaurants and other activities in close walking distance, Manly Beach is a popular spot in Sydney that many locals prefer to Bondi Beach.
Stay within a short distance of Sydney Harbour and enjoy some diverse activities including boat tours, surf instruction, shopping at a neighbouring mall, family time in Manly’s best restaurants and cafés, going for a dip in warm water. You can also engage in stand up paddle boarding and sunbathing on the beach volleyball court near the water and have time for various other outdoor pursuits.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach Sydney is located roughly 40 kilometers north of the Central Business District in Sydney, often called Palmy by locals.
The beach makes a long curve between the northern and southern ends of the peninsula. On this breathtaking part of Palm Beach, you will find the silky sand, azure blue waves, and high pine trees.
With the Australian TV series, Home and Away, tourism has gone up. The show wasn’t the sole reason why this beach started to become popular, but it definitely contributed to it. Now tourists are visiting this beach because of their favourite TV show.
The north end of the beach has better conditions for surfing while the south end is better suited to other activities like swimming laps, picnicking, relaxing and paddleboard.
The best view you can get at the bridge
The “Coathanger” is another Sydney icon. It was built in 1932 and continues to remain the world’s largest steel arch bridge. You can drive over it, cruise below it, or go across it on a train. To appreciate this marvel of engineering, go up to its 135 meter summit from downtown Sydney.
One of the top hikes in Australia is scaling Sydney Bridge. The tours range from a 3.5 hour morning climb to a night climb on the outer arch. Dawn and sunset climbing sessions are scheduled throughout the day, with more options available for the Indigenous storytelling experience and even a participant who would like to walk from one side of the bridge to the other!
One of the most famous stories involving the bridge is of Paul Hogan, who worked on the construction of the bridge during its construction. He continued to work during the same time and helped power it up, even though his fame had not yet materialized.
To learn more about the fascinating history of the bridge’s construction or to see the museum, visit the southeast pier.
The Rocks
Sydney’s historical area of The Rocks has been inhabited by the Gadigal people, and later became the site of European settlement in Australia.
Sydney is an Old World city that came into existence originally due to its natural harbour. The Rocks, which is the area where the convict-era outdoor tents could be found, today has more than 100 old buildings and houses squeezed along narrow streets on the cliffs of Sydney Cove. One of these is Cadman’s cottage, built in 1816.
Visitors can learn about the area’s fascinating transformation from traditional Aboriginal lands to convict slum to tourist hot spot by visiting The Rocks Discovery Museum. A guided tour is offered daily, with 30 minutes at both 1pm and 1:30pm.
The town hosts plenty of shopping opportunities that range from different souvenirs to handmade goods. The galleries also showcase Aboriginal and modern artworks.
Besides tours of Sydney’s important heritage sites, you can find night-time ghost tours, short breaks to much more unusual locations in the city.
A day at Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is a harbour on the side of Sydney’s CBD that attracts tourists and locals alike, including restaurants, entertainment venues, museums and an IMAX theater.
Families will enjoy at Madame Tussaud’s, wild life in Sydney Zoo, and the sea life in Sydney Aquarium.
The Powerhouse Museum offers interactive exhibits on science, technology, design, and history, while curious history buffs can board a replica of Captain Cook’s ship at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Additionally, keep an eye out for colorful artwork along the Darling Harbour Street Art Trail.
With so many fun attractions, children of all ages will love the Singular Dining Sydney. From the carousel, playgrounds, ferris wheel, and water park to the IMAX theater, harbour jet boat rides, simulated flights and racing car adventures.
Seeking a tranquil spot to relax? Head to the Chinese Garden of Friendship and sip some tea among the willows and koi ponds.
Darling Harbour is an oasis of activities for families, with art exhibitions and film festivals, and music concerts at the Aware Super Theatre.
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Need to relax? Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is the perfect spot. It’s just a short walk from the Sydney Opera House and offers an oasis of calm minutes from downtown Sydney.
Established in 1816, the Royal Botanic Gardens cover over 30 hectares of themed gardens with towering trees and tropical plants.
With the beautiful gardens, avid garden lovers will surely feel at home.
You can have a cultural tour in many Aboriginal regions and you can also have a guided bush tucker tour.
Wondering what’s around the gardens? The Domain, a popular event venue, is nearby with green space and sporting areas, and you can get a view of Govt House, the official residence of the New South Wales governer
Sydney Tower Eye
Of all the landmarks in Sydney, the 309-meter-high Sydney Tower Eye is arguably one of the most prominent. With sky piercing spire-topped turrets, this building rises high above Centerpoint Mall and offers views of many of the city’s most popular attractions.
While visiting the Sydney CBD, one of the popular things to do is to visit Zooming up the Sydney Tower Eye. These are just for tourists, so we recommend SkyWalk which is an outdoor glass-floor viewing platform. Get great views of Sydney and surrounding suburbs or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the revolving restaurants.
Another noteworthy feature is the entertainment options, including a 4D cinema experience that perfectly showcases the city’s history.
Taronga Zoo
The zoo is located on the north side of Sydney Harbor, in Mosman. It’s one of the top things to do with kids, and it’s an amazing way to scout out stunning city views.
Here, you have a chance to see and experience so much, including the African Savannah exhibit, Tiger Trek in the Outback, chimpanzees or gorillas.
Not only is admission to the parks included with your ticket, but you’ll also enjoy a show on your way in, like Seals for the Wild or Free Flight Birds. There are a few animal shows in addition to those as well. Pick any from the list and feed your muse!
Sydney is a lovely city and fun to explore on foot. You can take a ferry from Circular Quay, better known as the Sydney Harbour. Sydney’s zoo has lively events and “Roar and Snore” overnight stays. And during summertime, there’s always a live concert at Taronga Zoo. It’s best to buy a Sydney Taronga Zoo Entrance Ticket in advance, which includes riding the Sky Safari Gondola.
Want to see the animals after hours? Book a room at the Wildlife Retreat hotel, part of Taronga Zoo. As well as access to all types of awesomeness, this unique lodging also lets you view some of the animals.
The Art Gallery of New South Wales
With a stunning building, the Art Gallery of New South Wales houses one of Australia’s most famous and important museums with collections ranging from the European masters to Aboriginal art on display.
Ghost tour in Sydney
One of the most popular things to do in Sydney is take a ghost tour. You can choose from dozens of different tours, all with different stories and experiences. Some tours are more traditional and offer explanations about the history and legends of Sydney, while others focus on spooky stories and happenings. No matter what kind of ghost you’re looking to see, there’s a tour for you!
Sydney Aquarium
If you’re looking for a fun day out in Sydney, be sure to check out the Sydney Aquarium! It’s home to some of the world’s most interesting and exotic fish and marine creatures, and it’s definitely worth a visit. You can also take a walk around the harbour or spend some time at one of the many shopping districts in Sydney.
Coogee to Bondi coastal walk
If you’re looking for a nice coastal walk, the Coogee to Bondi route is a great way to start your day. The walk starts in Coogee and takes you along the beautiful Bondi coastline, ending at Bondi Beach. The entire walk takes around two hours, so make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!
Ferry around the lovely Circular Quay and Darling Harbour.
This is a great way to spend an afternoon if you’re in Sydney. You can walk around and take in the sights, or hop on a ferry and relax while cruising around.
Luna Park Sydney
If you’re looking for a day out that will keep you entertained and engaged, Luna Park Sydney is definitely an option worth considering. With rides like the Dragon’s Fury, the Cartoon Spin and the Crazy Mouse, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And if you’re feeling brave, why not take on one of the park’s more thrilling rides?