If you are planning to visit the unofficial capital of Australia, Sydney, you have an amazing holiday ahead of you. It is no coincidence that they call this city one of the best cities in the world, as it has everything you can imagine.
Vibrant city life and laid-back atmosphere in the suburbs, buzzing beaches and breathtaking nature at your fingertips. Add to this fine dining and the iconic sights that Sydney is so famous for, and you’ve got yourself possibly the most unforgettable vacation of your life.
But there is so much to see and do in Sydney that you might be wondering where you should even start. To help you out, here are 10 things that you should put on your Sydney itinerary right away.
1. Walk (or climb!) the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Few would argue that the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most iconic spots of the city. In fact, it is truly an impressive architectural construction that took 10 years to complete. So, if you want to experience it first-hand, not just marvel at it from afar, put on your walking shoes and walk across it! It will be mesmerizing to look at the Sydney skyline from up on the bridge.
Alternatively, if you are adventurous and you want a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, sign up for a climbing tour!
2. Explore the museums
It would be a shame to visit this incredible city but not dive deeper into its art and culture. There are so many amazing museums in Sydney that you should put at least one or two on your itinerary, depending on your interest. For instance, if you are into world-famous international artists, you should definitely check out the Museum of Contemporary Art.
In case it is natural history that piques your interest, head to the Australian Museum in the Sydney CBD. Or in case you are interested in the mysterious East, the White Rabbit Gallery has interesting Chinese artworks.
3. Dine with a view
When in Sydney, you will probably want to enjoy the views day in, day out. So, why not find a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal with the best possible view? You have so many options here – you can go for a waterfront restaurant such as Aqua Dining or Quay for impeccable views of the harbor, or you can even try and book a table at the Sydney Opera House for the ultimate experience.
4. Stroll in the Royal Botanic Gardens
In the middle of the city, one feels great when they can get away from the concrete and enjoy a bit of greenery. And when there is such an amazing botanic garden in Sydney as the Royal Botanic Gardens, it would be a sin not to spend a relaxing afternoon among the many native flora of the continent. This is the oldest botanic gardens in Australia, and there are tours available for those who are really interested in its history and plants.
5. Explore the Rocks
The Rocks is a must-visit district when you’re in Sydney. It bears great significance since it was the first site where Europeans settled in Australia. It was an important convict site in the past, and it still boasts some historic streets with colonial buildings and churches that are fun to explore on a sunny afternoon. Choose some comfortable clothes like jumpsuits and hit the streets of the Rocks where weekend markets and street entertainment abound.
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6. Catch a performance in Newtown
Newtown is another favorite place of both locals and tourists. Often said to be Sydney’s “coolest” neighborhood, this area is famous for its street art, so exploring the pieces while you are walking around is a lot of fun.
Newtown is also very vibrant with great nightlife and street entertainment, and for those who want to try some craft beer, Newtown will not disappoint. You might even catch a gig at many people’s favorite Sydney venue, the Enmore.
7. Experience the beach culture
Once you think you need a break after all your city explorations, Sydney has got your back. You can simply head to one of the famous beaches just a stone’s throw from the city center and experience a different side of Sydney.
You can put on your most fashionable bikini and sunbathe on one of the sunny sand beaches or you can get active and take a surf class to learn how to ride the waves, which the locals love to do so much. Bondi Beach should be your go-to!
8. Snorkel the waters
If you are enjoying your water fun, you can also explore a bit more of this side of Sydney and take a ferry to the laid-back Manly. You can enjoy a wide range of water activities here too, including kayaking, but what you should not miss out on is going for snorkeling or scuba diving session! The underwater world is exciting and colorful and Manly is a great place to explore it.
9. Taste the freshest seafood
Speaking of marine life, being so close to the ocean, you have probably guessed that seafood is impeccable in Sydney. So, if you are a fan of seafood, you will have the time of your life at the Sydney Fish Market in Pyrmont. This is a popular lunchtime spot where you can have some of the freshest oysters you have ever tasted. The fish market also has its own charm, so it’s worth a visit.
10. Enjoy nature
Finally, if your Sydney trip is long enough to allow it, you should also put the nearby national park, the Blue Mountains on your itinerary. It is a popular day-trip destination for Sydneysiders that is only 90 minutes away by train.
It is an amazing hiking spot where you can choose from tracks of varying difficulties and where you can catch breathtaking views of sights such as the iconic Three Sisters rock formations. For nature lovers, it’s a must!
This list could go on since Sydney simply has so many amazing things to offer. However, take these ten tips as your starting point and try to create your own personalized itinerary for the best experience!