Sydney, Australia, offers much more than just beautiful weather, boasting nearly 350 days of sunshine a year. Sydney is home to spectacular sites and unforgettable experiences, so if you're wondering what to include on your Sydney to-do list, consider the following suggestions.
1. Go for a Flat White
Australia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of coffee, but the Land Down Under has some of the best java in the world. Australia's coffee culture is so good that you’ll barely see any Starbucks among the abundance of small cafés, perfect places to enjoy a Flat White. Both Aussies and Kiwis claim they were the first to invent the iconic espresso beverage, so immerse yourself in this passionate debate and be the judge on the true birthplace of this beloved caffeinated delight.
2. Spend a Morning at the Sydney Fish Market
The Sydney Fish Market is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Discover the bustling atmosphere, enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour, delight your palate at one of the several cafés or restaurants, or stop by the gift shop and pick up a few souvenirs. Seafood doesn't get any fresher than this!
3. Explore Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is only a 10-minute walk from the Sydney city centre, packing a lot of delight into a small area. Embark on a behind-the-scenes tour at Wildlife Sydney Zoo or the famous Sealife Sydney Aquarium, where you'll become better acquainted with the area's natural wonders. Be sure to check out the iconic Sydney Tower Eye for unparalleled views of the city skyline or enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque waterways to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this thriving area.
4. Hop on a Ferry & Go to Manly Beach
Continue your adventure from Darling Harbour with easy ferry access to the Northern Beaches. Hop on one of the boats and mingle with locals as you head to Manly Beach, where white sands and sparkling warm waters await. Bask in the sun or stretch your legs and walk to the nearby nature reserve to enhance your Sydney experience.
5. Surf at Bondi Beach
If you haven't gotten your fill of enough oceanside fun, head to the iconic Bondi Beach for some world-renowned surfing. You’ll quickly discover why so many people love it as you ride the waves at one of the most popular beaches in Australia. Beginners can book a surfing lesson for a proper introduction to the thrills of soaring on the waves. Of course, all that surfing will make you work up an appetite, so go for some Barra and Chips at one of the nearby pubs — or take your order to go and enjoy it by the ocean. Barramundi is a local fish, and it is delicious!
6. Do a Walking Tour of the Rocks District
The Rocks is an area of Sydney near all the best sites, and it is a spot where you can easily spend an afternoon or a whole day. Stroll through this historic district and see what the local merchants have to offer. Visit the museum, refresh yourself at a wine bar or pub (Wine Odyssey has 44 different wines you can try), or relax and soak up the unforgettable atmosphere at your own pace.
7. Have a Picnic in the Park
Hyde Park boasts numerous shade trees, a lovely fountain, and more than 16 hectares of space in the city centre. It is the ideal place to take a break, escape the heat, and enjoy an Aussie-style picnic with spicy barbecued chicken, prawn salad with herb dressing, beef and vegetable pasties, and lemon, mint, and passion fruit iced tea.
8. Take a Ride Along the Harbour
Want to get out on the harbour? For wind-in-your-face fun, hop on a jetboat. If you want to relax and enjoy the sun and water, opt for a sailboat instead. The billowing sails, pristine scenery, and invigorating ocean air will make for the perfect afternoon. Bring your camera to capture the unique views of the city’s famous architecture, including the iconic Sydney Opera House.
9. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge
If you're looking for more of the best views of the city, then head to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The idea might seem a little intimidating at first, but the folks who run the tour are safety experts who'll make sure your experience is nothing short of fantastic! This popular tour books out fast, so be sure to pre-book it!
10. Explore the Sydney Opera House
You can’t go to Sydney and not experience the Opera House, a marvel of modern architecture that has captured countless imaginations since the late 1950s. You can book a tour or see a show—or both. Whet your appetite for the beautiful building by dining at the nearby restaurants with gorgeous views of this Sydney landmark.
The above ideas are just a touch of the wonders awaiting you in Sydney. You’ll never regret the time you spend in this beautiful city, whether you choose one of our most popular Sydney travel packages or carve your path. So, pack your bags, practice your Aussie lingo, and get ready to explore!
What do the experts say?
Tasmania is under the radar for many travelers, but it’s great for hikes, natural landscapes and now modern art!
Sydney and Melbourne are a great combination for first-time visitors to Australia, with Brisbane, Adelaide and/or the Outback added in, depending on how much time you have. Returnees should take in Perth, Darwin and the Kakadu National Park area and/or Tasmania if they can, plus spend some time in the cities they loved the first time around
It might sound cliche, but you really can visit year-round. Australia is a big country, so there is always somewhere with amazing weather!
Goway’s trips to Australia are not stock itineraries. We can put together trips of a few weeks or a few months, allowing you to see as much of the land Downunder as you can. And we offer a mix of travel options, from self-drives to train journeys to long stays.
Goway has partnerships with many unique inns and hotels in Australia. Among the most memorable are Qualia on Hamilton Island, Longitude 131 at Uluru and Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island.
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