Sydney Things to Do • travel guide post & photos by Jeanie A
In Sydney and wondering what’s worth your time? Here’s my list of the best things to see, do, and experience in Australia’s iconic city, Sydney.
When you purchase through an affiliate link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. By doing so, you are supporting the upkeep and maintenance of this site. Thank you for your support! Learn more.
Sydney is a city that dazzles from every angle, from its sparkling harbour to its iconic skyline and vibrant culture. You can soak up views from atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge, or cruise past the famous Opera House, and there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. This guide rounds up 9 of the best things to do in Sydney, from must-see landmarks to hidden gems that reveal the city’s laid-back charm and adventurous spirit.
Recommended Sydney Tours & Activities
Book unforgettable experiences and check out the below recommended Sydney tours, activities and attractions that are mentioned throughout this post:
The above map shows all the points of interest mentioned in this Sydney itinerary.
HOW TO USE THE ABOVE SYDNEY MAP:
Action
Description
Click a Colored Point of Interest
Shows additional information and details of the selected Point of Interest
Click the Four-cornered Square at the Top Right
Opens the map in a Larger Map view in your personal Google Maps account
On Larger Map view, click the STAR ☆ under “Sydney, Australia“
Adds the Map to your personal Google Maps account to access anytime on Computer* or on Phone App**
* On Computer: In your Google Maps, Click “Saved” on left bar → Click “Maps” → Click “Sydney, Australia“
**On Phone App: In your Google Maps app, Click “You” on bottom bar → Scroll to bottom → Click “Maps” → Click “Sydney, Australia“
9 Thing to Do in Sydney
Iconic Landmarks
1. Opera House
Walk around the Opera House and take a closer look of the architecture and texture of the building. If you circle around it to the outer edge behind the Opera House, you might be able to spot the resident seal, Benny, sleeping on the steps too!
Be sure to check the Opera House schedule to see if any events or shows are happening during your visit.
Views at the Opera House during sunset • photos by Jeanie A
2. Sydney Tower Eye
Located in Sydney’s central business district (CBD), is the Sydney Tower Eye. Atop the Sydney Tower Eye, you’ll get panoramic views of Sydney, where you’ll be able to spot the Harbour Bridge and if you’re lucky with a clear day, the Blue Mountains! The observation deck stands at 820 feet (250 meters) high where you’ll get amazing 360-degree views of Sydney.
3. Royal Botanic Garden
At the Royal Botanic Garden, you can admire the greenery and more amazing views. Be sure to head out towards the Mrs. Macquarie’s Point where you can get views of both the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. This point is also considered to be one of the best photo spots in the city too!
View from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point • photo by Jeanie A
4. Luna Park
Have some fun at an amusement park and head to other side of Circular Quay to Luna Park! You’ll get amazing views of Sydney’s CBD, the bridge, and the Opera House.
Luna Park • photo by Jeanie A
Looking for Views
5. Cruise the Sydney Harbour
In Circulat Quay, board a Harbour Cruise Boat and cruise around the Sydney Harbour. You’ll get amazing views of Sydney’s CBD’s city skyline, the Opera House, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge all in one view!
If you want a thrilling adventure, then do the BridgeClimb on the Sydney Harbour Bridge! I highly recommend experiencing this activity that combines a thrilling activity with amazing panoramic views of the harbour and of Sydney.
Right below the Opera House is the Opera Bar where you can chill and relax. Grab a drink and enjoy the view with two iconic landmarks: Harbour Bridge on the left and Opera House on the right.
Opera Bar at Sydney Opera House • photos by Jeanie A
8. Explore The Rocks
The Rocks is one of Sydney’s oldest neighborhood and has cobbled streets and historic buildings. Some pubs even date back to the 1800s! Some buildings also hold some historical pieces and information that can offer an insight into this area’s colonial past.
You can roam around the area and find a ton of restaurants and bars. For some rooftop views, check out the Glenmore, or for some waterfront views, check out Park Hyatt Sydney Restaurant located near Dawes Point.
Exploring the Rocks • photos by Jeanie A
9. Pitt Street Mall
Near the Sydney Tower is Pitt Street Mall, a busy shopping precinct. Do some shopping and treat yourself to some Aussie apparel!
Pitt Street Mall • photo by Jeanie A
Getting to Sydney
Sydney has its own airport that you can fly into: Sydney Airport (SYD). It is about a 20-25 minute drive from to get into the central Sydney area (i.e., central business district, CBD), and using Uber is the most convenient way to get there from the airport.
Getting Around Sydney
Once you’re in the central Sydney area, you can walk, but some locations can be far. When this is the case, you can simply call an Uber for the most convenient method of transportation.
There are also taxi lines near some major attractions where you can just get into the front-most taxi and make your way. These might be a bit more pricey though, especially if the taxi ends up being a luxury one.
Otherwise, if you plan to stay near the Circular Quay area, then most locations in this area, including the Rocks, Opera House, and the Gardens, are all within walking distant.
Where to Stay in Sydney
We stayed at the YHA Sydney Harbour Hotel located in the Rocks. We found this hotel’s location super convenient since it was right in the Rocks with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby.
Book the same stay by clicking here or add your dates and click “Search” for availability in the widget below:
Otherwise, search for your Sydney stay in the map below. All points of interest mentioned in this itinerary are also marked for convenience:
In Sydney, you can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or glide across the water on a scenic harbour cruise, but every moment in Sydney offers a new perspective of this incredible city. It’s a destination with both adventure with beauty and I hope some (or all!) of these things to do will get on your Sydney itinerary.
What was the highlight of your visit to Sydney? Let me know in the comments below!
Jeanie has traveled to over 50 countries and has a love for new experiences, visiting iconic attractions, and finding breathtaking views. Hoping to help plan unforgettable adventures, Jeanie aims to inspire others to visit new places through her travel stories and photography.
If this post has helped you, feel free to support me on:
Leave a Reply