Summary
I am an Adelaide-based travel writer and photographer, chronicling adventures across Australia; however, I had not visited Sydney since the pandemic lockdowns. Consequently, upon receiving an invitation to visit the harbor city for the launch of the latest GoTravelDaily Australia guidebook series (for which I contributed to the South Australia chapter), I considered it a sign to return.
My primary expenditure was on accommodation, although there are economical options such as centralized hostels or lodgings outside the urban center. Weekend public transportation proved surprisingly affordable, with a daily fare cap keeping my costs to $9.35 (excluding airport charges). I suggest complementing a few luxuries with complimentary activities; this approach is essential in a city known for its high costs.
Pre-trip Spending
All prices are in Australian dollars.
Accommodation: $560 for two nights at the central, elegant, and conveniently located Ace Hotel. It is a mere 10-minute walk from Sydney’s Central Station, thereby eliminating the necessity—and temptation—of utilizing expensive rideshare services.
On the Ground
Friday
11am: Upon arriving at Sydney International Airport, I retrieve my luggage and proceed to the domestic terminal’s underground train station.
To circumvent the minimum expenditure required for the purchase of an Opal card (Sydney’s tap-on, tap-off metro pass), I utilize my contactless credit card throughout the weekend, which affords me the same advantages as an Opal adult card, eliminating the need for additional plastic.
This feeling of frugality is fleeting as the airport’s “Station Access Fee” surcharge ($17.34) is added to my fare to Museum Station ($2.94) in central Sydney.
12pm: Following a swift train journey and a downhill stroll, I deposit my bags at Ace Hotel and am back outside in just 30 minutes.
To alleviate post-flight stiffness, I walk the 1.5km to White Rabbit Gallery in Chippendale for a lunch rendezvous with former colleagues. I am quite hungry upon arrival and we promptly order an array of handmade dumplings and aromatic teas (my share $17.50).
I bid farewell to my companions and navigate a food coma while exploring the gallery’s four levels of contemporary Chinese art (free).
3:30pm: Not having processed my earlier lesson, I meander to the nearby Brickfields bakery and indulge in a Sinner’s Schmear, a delectable cinnamon brioche adorned with vanilla glaze ($8).
Continuing my culinary exploration, I journey 20 minutes north to the Chinatown Friday Night Market (free), which has just commenced. The air is already saturated with spice, and I find myself drawn to a braised pork belly Chinese crepe ($17) for an early dinner. With juices cascading down my arm, I navigate my brief circuit back to the hotel.
Friday total: $62.78
Saturday
8:15am: Rising early to utilize Sydney’s unusually warm winter day, I board the 373 bus ($3.05) heading towards the city’s iconic eastern beaches. My initial destination: Coogee Beach.
Just a block from the coastline, The Little Kitchen café thrums with lively chatter, bustling baristas, and the delightful aroma of a hot cake special. I manage to secure the last table and choose the halloumi and roasted field-mushroom bap ($16) along with my coffee ($4.50).
10am: At the foreshore reserve, I refill my water bottle (free) and join the procession of walkers clad in athletic gear traversing the Coogee to Bondi coastal path (free).
Upon reaching Bondi Beach 6km later, I am a hot mess. I shed my layers and dive into the surf (free). The frigid water provides a sharp reminder that winter has not fully receded.
Once somewhat dry, I contemplate continuing my journey toward Watsons Bay at the headland’s tip; however, the path is primarily under renovation. Instead, I board the 380 bus ($3.05) northbound to explore Sydney Harbour National Park (free).
1pm: With too much sunshine to endure indoor dining, I proceed to Doyles Fishermans Wharf Takeaway near the Watsons Bay ferry terminal. I separate my orders for fish ($10.90) and chips ($7.70), effectively saving $3 from the total fish ‘n’ chips price, and enjoy my meal beneath the sprawling Moreton Bay fig tree along the shoreline.
Continuing my day, I hop on the ferry (and consequently reach my daily fare cap at $9.35) to Circular Quay, appreciating Sydney’s remarkable Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the shimmering waters.
Back on land, it is a brief five-minute walk to the Royal Botanic Gardens (free), where I apply my lunchtime savings towards an ice block/popsicle ($4) from the café. With 17,000 steps already accumulated, I locate a shady area overlooking the lotus pond, lower my cap, and take a moment to rest.
I awaken to a text from an old football friend, Lindsay, recommending that we catch up at his local pub, the Bellevue Hotel. I swiftly catch a train (currently free) from Circular Quay to my hotel, refresh, change into jeans, and then take the 440 bus to Paddington.
6:30pm: I engage in nostalgia with Lindsay over dinner, often distracted by canines briskly walking through this pet-friendly venue. My choice is the robust beef and Guinness pie ($25) paired with a refreshing Pinot Grigio ($11). Following our meal, we take a digestive stroll around the ‘burbs, bid farewell, and I catch the bus (still complimentary) back to the hotel.
Saturday total: $88.45
Sunday
9am: With winter’s sun still brightly shining, I set my sights on Sydney’s northern beaches. Taking a train ($2.94) to Circular Quay, followed by a ferry to Manly Wharf (hitting the daily fare cap); the refreshing 20-minute journey wakes me from my morning drowsiness.
The coffee ($5) from Fika finishes the job, and their “Scando Avo,” smashed avocado on rye with feta, strawberries, pickled chili, and an additional egg ($21.50, plus $2.70 in surcharges) prepares my stomach for the day ahead.
Having fatigued my legs from the previous day’s activities, I opt for paddling instead of walking and rent a kayak ($55 for three hours) from the Manly Kayak Centre to explore North Head’s pristine beaches. Prior to heading out, I also visit the nearby Manly Markets for snacks. I indulge with a raspberry white chocolate ganache cruffin ($9.50) and a sumo mandarin ($2.50).
12pm: Maneuvering through an array of bobbing yachts, I paddle past Manly Wharf; the invigorating salt breeze greets me. As I pass luxury waterside homes, I briefly feel transported to the Mediterranean coast—until a eucalyptus branch brushes against my kayak.
At Store Beach, I safely retrieve my flattened snacks from my dry bag and enjoy them while strolling along its tree-lined shore.
Subsequently, I kayak to the adjacent Quarantine Beach, where I pay a premium for the sunlit harbor view with an apple cider ($12 plus $1.40 weekend surcharge) from Wharf Cafe & Bar.
After battling an increasing headwind back to Manly Wharf, I board the ferry (now free) and then the train (also free) back to the hotel, allowing me ample time to refresh, relax, and prepare for dinner.
6:30pm: I reunite with several other GoTravelDaily team members who have arrived for the book launch that motivated my visit, and we dine at LOAM, located on the ground floor of the Ace Hotel lobby. The dishes arrive, each evoking a sense of food envy among the guests. I relish the portobello katsu burger ($26) alongside a delicate ‘Amo Vino’ Ramato’ orange wine ($15), concluding with a baked rice pudding ($16), paying the credit card surcharge ($2.29) plus a tip ($2.96).
Sunday total: $180.91
The Final Tally: $892.43
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Accommodation: $560.00 (two nights)
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Public transport: $38.98 (including airport surcharge)
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Food and wine: $229.10
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Activities: $55.00
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Hidden surcharges and tips: $9.35
Notes
This budget does not incorporate air, bus, or train fares and, as previously noted, more affordable accommodation is available throughout Sydney. Pricing displayed on menus in Sydney typically includes taxes and gratuity; however, additional surcharges may appear on your bill. Credit card processing fees are occasionally imposed to offset the charges levied by banks. Surcharges during weekends and public holidays can also apply to accommodate heightened demand and increased labor costs (generally between 10 and 15%).
This article was first published on August 14, 2019, and updated on October 18, 2024.
