16 Top Things To Do In Sydney and Where To Stay – Sydney Travel Guide

Planning a trip Down Under? Discover the top things to do in Sydney, insider tips, and where to stay to make the most of your visit to the city.

Australia’s iconic city of Sydney is a must-see destination when visiting the land Down Under. From the famously beautiful Sydney Harbour to pristine beaches and nearby mountains, you will never be short of adventurous activities in this vibrant city. However, with so much to do, see, and eat, it can be difficult to know where to begin, but that’s where I come in! I lived in Australia for a year and have put together the top things to do in Sydney, where to stay, plus my top tips and personal recommendations.

Read: Ultimate Guide to Moving to Australia from Ireland

While on a year-long working holiday visa in Australia I visited Sydney twice, both times in summer (December-February), and I loved exploring the city and surrounding areas.

Most people tend to fly into Sydney to kick off their Australian adventure, so if you are doing the same, make the most of your time there – once you’ve recovered from jet lag! Don’t limit yourself to just the city, there’s a lot to see and do in the surrounding areas as well.

If you are planning to visit Melbourne on your holiday to Australia check out our 3 day itinerary here.

Top Things to do in Sydney – Australia

While there are hundreds of things to do in Sydney, I have chosen 15 of the most popular attractions as well as those you can not to miss on your trip to Sydney! There are still plenty more amazing places to visit in Sydney that I left off this list, such as the Sydney Tower, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and the Australian National Maritime Museum, just to name a few.

1. Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Boat Tour

See Sydney’s iconic sights on a harbour boat tour – this is one of the top things to do in Sydney! Take in the views of the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Harbour bridge. It is a great way to explore the city. Choose a morning cruise to beat the crowds or a dinner cruise for some epic sunset views and tasty food.

If you don’t like boats, do not worry. You can enjoy a drink at possibly one of the most famous bars in the world, the Opera Bar, looking out at the amazing Sydney Harbour views.

2. Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk (Free)

The Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk offers a fantastic way to discover Sydney’s stunning coastline. The walk is approximately 6km long and has a well-maintained pathway that’s easy to follow. Along the way, you’ll be treated to incredible views of luxurious mansions and dramatic cliffs.

My favourite beach on this walk is definitely Tamarama Beach – it is usually much quieter than the rest and has gorgeous crystal clear water and white sand, so don’t miss it! If you end at Bondi, cool off with a dip in the Bondi Icebergs Pool.

Note: You can do this walk in reverse so start in Bondi and end in Coogee if it suits you better, it doesn’t really matter. This is arguably the best of the many free things to do in Sydney, so add it to your list!

Top tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated.

3. Sydney Sunrise Kayak Tour

An early wake up call is definitely worth it, for an activity you will possibly never forget! Sydney is known for its amazing sunrises, so why not book a kayak tour around Sydney Harbour while the city starts to wake up. This was easily one of the best things I did during my year in Australia.

There are a few companies that offer this experience, but I was recommended Lavender Bay Kayaking, a small business run by a French guide called Vianney. He only takes small groups, which makes the tour far more personal and allows for fantastic photo opportunities without huge crowds in the background.

4. The Famous Home & Away Beach AKA Palm Beach

Located about 40 kilometres from the CBD ( Sydney’s Central Business District), Palm Beach in North Sydney is known as the filming location of the famous Australian TV programme Home & Away. It is a stunning coastal town famous for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

There’s a short easy hike to the fantastic Barrenjoey Lighthouse viewpoint you cannot miss. Take a picnic and enjoy a swim. If you are a fan of the show, they also run tours of the sets and filming locations where show characters make an appearance.

Top tip: You might need to rent a car as getting here is not straightforward or accessible by public transportation.

5. Visit Taronga Zoo

This is the perfect day out for families, and is one of the best things to do in Sydney with kids! Located along Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is one of Australia’s most famous zoos. Home to over 4,000 animals from more than 350 species, including native Australian wildlife like koalas and kangaroos, it’s a must-see during your trip Down Under.

The zoo is also famous for its stunning views of the city skyline and harbour, providing a brilliant backdrop for your holiday pictures.

6. Day Trip to Manly

No trip to Sydney is complete without a day trip to Manly. You can catch an affordable ferry ride from Circular Quay (roughly $8 each way), taking in stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge along the way. It’s one of my personal favourite things to do in Sydney.

Make sure to bring your snorkel for a swim at Shelly Beach, a top spot for snorkelling with its clear waters and great marine life. For a sweet treat, stop by Butterboy for their mouth watering cookies and ice cream, definitely a local favourite.

If you’re visiting on the weekend, don’t miss the lively markets on Main Street, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts.

7. Epic Whale Watching (Winter)

If you find yourself in Sydney in the winter months (June-August) you have to go searching for the humpback whales. Take a boat from circular quay or any boat terminal for an epic whale watching adventure to see the huge sea creatures up close.

Top tip: Take some sea sickness tablets and a rain jacket.

8. Explore The Blue Mountains National Park

Get out of the city and head for the mountains, where you will find incredible hikes, scenic viewpoints and waterfalls waiting to be explored. The Blue Mountains are located around 60km from central Sydney and can be reached easily by train or by car.

It is a great destination for families, as there are three different cable car experiences that allow you to explore the area in a fun and accessible way.

This includes the world’s steepest passenger railway, featuring a 52 degree incline as it descends into the Jamison Valley. The railway follows the path of a historic coal mining tramway, adding an extra layer of history to the experience.

A visit to the Blue Mountains would not be complete without seeing the magnificent rock formation of the Three Sisters, these towering pillars are said to be over 200 million years old and each one has its own name. There is also a fascinating story behind their creation, which makes the viewpoint even more special.

9. Enjoy a Picnic at a Viewpoint

There are many great viewpoints around the city where you can enjoy a picnic while taking in the city views. Berry’s Bay Lookout and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair are popular options with harbour views, while Observatory Hill is another well known spot, offering a relaxed atmosphere and views across the Harbour Bridge (Pictured).

If you are looking for quieter or lesser known viewpoints, consider Ball’s Head Reserve in Waverton, which offers peaceful walking tracks and harbour views, or Cremorne Point, a lovely spot for sunset with views back towards the city.

10. Jervis Bay Day Trip

Just over 2 hours from Sydney CBD, you will find yourself enjoying quieter beaches, clear turquoise water and excellent spots for swimming and snorkelling. Jervis Bay is home to Booderee National Park, an area rich in Indigenous heritage, with walking tracks through bushland that lead to peaceful coves.

At certain times, the water in Jervis Bay can glow with soft blue light along the shoreline. This is caused by chemical reactions within plankton and can only be seen at night. It can occur at any time of year, although it is more common during the warmer months from December to February.

11. Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Are you an adrenaline junkie or just want to say you climbed up the iconic Sydney Harbour bridge? Either way it is such a cool activity to add to your Sydney bucket list.

Enjoy Sydney’s city skyline and amazing sights from 134 meters (440 feet) above sea level. The Sydney BridgeClimb is also suitable for kids from 8 years old who must be accompanied by an adult so it is one of the best family activities in Sydney.

12. Vivid Sydney (Free)

Vivid Sydney is a light festival that takes place during the winter months, usually between May and June each year. Most of the city’s main attractions light up to take part in the celebrations, transforming the harbour and surrounding areas after dark.

From large scale light projections to music events and pop up experiences, the festival offers something for everyone and is a fantastic way to see the city in a completely different light.

13. Explore the Hunter Valley Region

Whether you see yourself as a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy wine tasting in beautiful surroundings – the Hunter Valley wine region, just 3 hours from Sydney, ticks both boxes!

Enjoy a guided tour showcasing the outstanding wines for which the area is known, particularly Semillon and Shiraz. Beyond wine tastings, the region offers gourmet restaurants and artisan food producers specialising in cheese and chocolate.

The Hunter Valley is also a popular destination for hot air balloon experiences and, if you choose to stay overnight, you can take to the skies at dawn and watch the sunrise for a truly special way to begin the day.

14. Darling Harbour Fireworks (Free)

If you find yourself in Sydney on a Saturday night, make the most of the free firework display at Cockle Bay in Darling Harbour, which takes place at 9pm. Dress up, head out for dinner and drinks, and enjoy the colourful show lighting up the waterfront.

Please note that the fireworks only run between October and February, with special New Year’s Eve displays at both 9pm and midnight.

Top tip: There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the area, so it is worth booking a waterside table around the time of the fireworks. This way, you can enjoy the view with a drink in hand and avoid the crowds along the promenade.

15. Bottomless Brunch

Bottomless brunch in Sydney has become a popular weekend tradition, providing a fun experience for visitors and locals. I decided to try Untied in Barangaroo after reading fantastic reviews, and it did not disappoint! The lively atmosphere featured live performances, karaoke, slushie cocktails, and delicious food.

Top tip: Since these brunch spots tend to book out quickly, especially on weekends, it is always wise to make a reservation in advance.

16. Bondi Icebergs

Do you want to enjoy dinner with a view of Bondi Beach, or are you simply looking for somewhere for a refreshing swim? The Bondi Icebergs are the perfect place to spend an afternoon in the sunshine, where you can take in the stunning ocean views, relax by the iconic pool, and soak up the laid back coastal atmosphere with a drink or meal afterwards. While it is not free to swim here, you will only pay roughly $10 per adult, which is around €6.

Where to stay in Sydney

CBD – Central Business District: Circular Quay / Darling Harbour

Circular Quay sits on the northern edge of Sydney CBD and is home to the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, the city’s main ferry terminal and a major train station. With excellent transport connections, it is an ideal base if you plan to explore Sydney in depth. If your budget allows, there are also hotels with impressive views of the Opera House or the Harbour Bridge.

The CBD itself is the heart of the city, while Darling Harbour lies just to the west of Circular Quay. This area is another convenient place to stay, offering a relaxed holiday atmosphere with hotels, bars and restaurants lining the waterfront.

Hotel Recommendations: W Sydney, Park Hyatt Sydney, ACE Hotel or Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

Restaurant recommendations: Don’t tell Aunty, Surry Hills, Infinity at Sydney Tower, O Bar & Dining (Rotating Restaurant), Chin Chin CBD

Bondi Beach

If you are a beach lover, consider staying near the famous Bondi Beach and enjoy the coastal lifestyle. You can try a surf lesson on the iconic waves or spend a morning browsing the Bondi Markets, which are held at weekends.

Getting to the CBD from Bondi is straightforward and takes around 30 minutes. Regular buses run directly to and from the city, and you can also take a short bus ride to Bondi Junction, where trains connect you to the wider Sydney transport network. This makes it easy to enjoy the beach while still being well connected to the rest of the city.

Hotel Recommendations: The Blue Hotel Bondi, QT Bondi or Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach

Restaurant recommendations: Totti’s, Bangkok Bites, Makaveli Bondi, Mami’s Bondi

Coogee/ Bronte Beach

If you are visiting Irish or English family living in Sydney, the chances are they will be staying in these two neighbouring suburbs, which are located very close to each other. The area has a relaxed holiday atmosphere and everything you need is right on your doorstep, from buzzing cafes and lively bars to coastal walks and, of course, beautiful beaches.

The suburbs are also well connected to the city by public transport, making it easy to reach central Sydney.

Hotel Recommendations: InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, Coogee Bay Hotel or Adina Apartment Hotel Coogee Sydney

Restaurant Recommendations: Osteria Coogee, Little Jack Horner, Bronte Steakhouse & Grill

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Sydney

What is the best time to visit Sydney?

Sydney’s seasons are the opposite to the Northern Hemisphere. Summer (December-February) is hot and humid, perfect for beach days, while autumn (March-May) brings mild temperatures. Winter (June-August) is cooler but wetter, ideal for whale watching, and spring (September-November) is warm with lower humidity, great for exploring the city.

High season can sometimes see temperatures up to 40°C, so the shoulder months of October and April are often more comfortable with fewer crowds. Christmas and New Year are especially busy, with higher airfares and hotel prices.

Is Sydney expensive?

Overall I would have to say Yes! Sydney can be expensive especially if you are on holiday as you want to make the most of your trip and see the top attractions in Sydney. However, there are plenty of free activities in Sydney to enjoy, so make sure to take advantage of those too!. For a comfortable experience, I’d recommend budgeting around €200 per day, depending on your plans.

If you are visiting Sydney on a budget, it might be worth booking an apartment with cooking facilities to save money on dining out. You can prepare breakfast or lunch to take out with you or even have a barbeque on the beach, as eating out can be expensive and bills will quickly add up.

Top tip: Food chains like Bettys Burgers, Schnitz, Zeus Street Greek and Oporto are the best places for light cheap bites.

How long should I spend in Sydney?

I think 5 to 7 nights is plenty to see the main sights and still enjoy some down time. On my first visit to Sydney I stayed for 11 nights and felt it was far too long. I would recommend spending one day exploring the city centre and Circular Quay, an afternoon in Manly, a day trip to the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley, and a few days beach hopping.

Where should I stay?

Staying in an area well connected to public transport will save you a lot of money on taxis. If you love the beach, consider Bondi or Bronte. For a central location and boat day trips, Circular Quay is ideal. If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere with bars and restaurants, Darling Harbour offers a great holiday vibe, complete with fireworks at 9pm every Saturday night.

How to get around the city?

Sydney’s public transport is mainly buses, and ferries, with some trains and light rail options which mostly concentrated in the CBD. Ubers are convenient, but using them constantly can get expensive.

I found the inner-city train network very handy to see the Sydney tourist attractions, though buses were my main form of transport, especially in the Eastern suburbs. If you plan more than two day trips to destinations like the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley or Jervis Bay, renting a car is highly recommended, as it can save both time and money.

Sydney Top Travel Tips

Plan ahead
If you’re visiting during the summer months (December to February) or around the Christmas and New Year holidays, it’s essential to book your accommodation and plan your activities in advance. Popular attractions can fill up quickly, especially during school holidays. To ensure you secure a stay in the area you want, book your hotel or Airbnb well in advance (6 months+).

Reserve popular restaurants
One of the biggest let downs when traveling can be discovering that the best restaurants are fully booked. In Australia it is common to make reservations well ahead of time, especially for sought after dining spots. Make sure to secure your dates and times in popular restaurants to avoid disappointment.

Sydney is huge
Do not underestimate distances. Sydney is spread out so group activities by area rather than trying to see everything in one day. While there are options for hop-on hop-off tours you will not get to all of the places to see in Sydney in a day or two, so give yourself plenty of time.

Rent a car
To explore the best hidden gems in Sydney, renting a car is highly recommended. While public transport is available, it can become crowded during the summer months with both tourists and locals. A car will give you the freedom to explore the places to go in Sydney and to discover off the beaten path locations at your own pace.

Be prepared for days out
Don’t forget to pack essential items like sunscreen, snacks, and a sun hat. These items will be crucial for your daily outings, ensuring you’re comfy and protected while enjoying the sun.

Make the most of food experiences
One of my favourite tips for eating or drinking out anywhere in Australia is to take advantage of bottomless brunches or restaurants that offer tasting menus. They are a fantastic way to save money and try a variety of dishes to share between friends.

New Year’s Eve in Sydney
If you plan to spend New Year’s Eve in Sydney, my best advice is to book an event. Yes, they are pricey, but they are definitely worth it to avoid the huge crowds and road closures. Popular options include Luna Park amusement park, a harbourfront bar or restaurant, a boat party, or heading to areas like Rose Bay or Watsons Bay to enjoy the fireworks from a distance,

I hope these top things to do in Sydney helps you plan the perfect stay in the fabulous city. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, activities and descriptions are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.

Kaitlin Murphy