Sydney is one of those cities that grabs your attention long before you get to experience it.
Bodyboarding at Bondi Beach, zipping under the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a ferry, or catching a show at the incredible Sydney Opera House are just a few of the incredible experiences you’ll want to tick off on your big trip Down Under.
Once you’ve tackled those, it’s time to explore what else the city has to offer. Here are the best things to do in Sydney, whether you’re visiting for the first time or the tenth.
1. Dine on Delicious Meals with Exemplary Sydney Hospitality
Sydney’s dining scene has never been more inventive and exciting. Restaurants serving food from across the globe, often with a uniquely Australian twist, can be found in every pocket of the city.
It may be a little faddish and perhaps a bit too obsessed with big-name chefs, but it wouldn’t be Sydney if names weren’t being dropped. Thankfully, the food scene manages to balance style with substance.
Fine dining restaurants such as Quay and Oncore by Clare Smyth stand out as world-class on every front – from the views and the service to the exquisite menus on offer.
Other Sydney hotspots, no less incredible in terms of quality dishes and top-notch hospitality, include NOMAD, Mr Wong, Cafe Paci, Long Chim, and seafood pioneers Saint Peter. However, a takeaway Sri Lankan or a cheap noodles night with BYO wine could just as easily be your Sydney dining highlight.
2. Walk, Cycle, or Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydneysiders love their giant coathanger, which opened in 1932. The best way to experience this majestic structure is on foot; stairs and elevators climb up the bridge from both shores, leading to a sidewalk on the eastern side (the western side is a bike path). Get the train to Milson’s Point Station and walk back towards the city to enjoy the most spectacular viewpoint.
Planning tip: You can now experience a trip with a First Nations storyteller who’ll share their perspective on the city while you look over Sydney’s magnificent harbor.
3. Tour Backstage at Sydney Opera House
Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this eye-catching building is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. With visually referencing a yacht’s sails, it’s a soaring presence that comprises five performance spaces for dance, concerts, opera, and theater.
You can wander around the outside to your heart’s content, but the best way to experience the interior is to attend a performance. A guided tour is also highly recommended, with various options available, including backstage tours and architecture-focused insights.
4. Bodyboard, Learn to Surf, or Watch the Icebergs at Bondi
Bondi is one of the world’s most famous beaches, known for its consistently good waves and warm sea temperatures. It’s an excellent place to learn to surf at facilities like Let’s Go Surfing, offering lessons for all ages and skill levels.
Alternatively, you can book a private tutor or simply enjoy the waves. Regardless of your level, it is essential to be respectful of other surfers and swimmers.
5. Explore Secluded Beaches and Dramatic Views from Watsons Bay
Located east of the city center and north of Bondi, Watsons Bay is a lovely day trip by ferry from Circular Quay. You can explore South Head and have a leisurely lunch or enjoy sunset drinks in local beer gardens.
On the ocean side, The Gap offers a dramatic clifftop lookout, while on the harbor side, you’ll find the sheltered Camp Cove beach perfect for a refreshing dip.
6. Ride the Ferry to Historic Cockatoo Island
Studded with photogenic industrial relics, Cockatoo Island has a fascinating history as a convict prison. Visitors can explore remnants of this historical site and learn about its role as a shipyard and naval base.
7. Join a Female-Focused Street Art Tour
Experience Newtown’s vibrant street art scene through organized tours that highlight female artists. These tours not only showcase incredible murals but also point you toward great cafes along the way.
8. Experience a Drag Show
Sydney is Australia’s LGBTIQ+ capital, making it a fantastic place to attend a drag show. The performances have become mainstream, with many opportunities to enjoy dining while watching talented drag queens and kings.
9. Discover Aboriginal Rock Art
Surprisingly, Sydney is built on a rich tapestry of Aboriginal art, found in various locations around the harbor and in nearby national parks. Enthusiasts are increasingly exploring these ancient artworks.
10. Admire the Art Gallery of New South Wales
This much-loved institution is a prominent cultural venue in Sydney, hosting blockbuster exhibitions and special events. Its permanent collection includes a substantial amount of 19th-century European and Australian art.
11. Visit White Rabbit Art Gallery
Considered one of Sydney’s premier contemporary art galleries, the White Rabbit showcases an extensive collection of contemporary Chinese art. Visitors can enjoy a unique artistic experience with an onsite cafe serving specialty teas.
12. Shop in Sydney’s Victorian-Era Arcades
Sydney’s shopping district is rich with ornate Victorian-era arcades, including the magnificent Queen Victoria Building, which features numerous shops and historical architectural features that add charm to your retail therapy experience.
13. Experience Sydney’s Spectacular Festivals
Sydney’s calendar is packed with festivals from New Year’s Eve fireworks to the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras. Throughout the year, a mix of fashion, literature, and art festivals provide ongoing entertainment.
14. Kayak to a Secret Beach
A hidden gem near Manly, Store Beach can only be accessed by water. Paddle by kayak for breathtaking views and the chance to relax in this serene cove.
15. Hike the Coastline Around Manly and North Head
This beautiful coastal walk offers stunning views and diverse scenery, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
16. Learn About Aboriginal History at the Royal Botanic Garden
This garden, established in 1816, offers insight into both botanical wonders and the rich cultural history of the Gadigal people, making it a valuable visit for any traveler.
17. Make a Day Trip to Palm Beach and Pittwater
Palm Beach, famous for its dramatic landscapes, offers beautiful ocean views alongside a calm strip for young kids, making it a perfect family-friendly destination.
18. Go for a Run or Horse Ride Around Centennial Park
Centennial Park is Sydney’s largest park, offering wide trails and various sports activities, making it ideal for both recreational and family outings.
19. Discover the Colonial History of The Rocks
The Rocks offers a glimpse into Australia’s convict past, featuring atmospheric lanes lined with historic buildings and cultural institutions that tell the story of the area.
20. Walk the Bondi to Coogee Clifftop Trail
The sensational 6 km Bondi to Coogee walk leads you along the cliffs, offering breathtaking vistas, beachside parks, and intriguing history.
21. Experience the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia
A short walk from Sydney’s CBD, the Cruising Yacht Club offers not just views of stunning yachts but also a local dining experience that captures the essence of Sydney’s maritime culture.
This article was first published on August 9, 2021, and updated on November 3, 2023.
