25 Best Things To Do In Sydney [2024]

Things To Do in Sydney

Sydney, Australia is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city has a lot to offer for people who want to visit, and the best way to see all that Sydney has to offer is by exploring it on foot. With so much ground to cover, you might feel overwhelmed at first.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 25 best things to do when visiting Sydney!

1. Visit Sydney’s Opera House

The Opera House is one of the most well-known places in Sydney. The beautiful building will leave you astounded and can be seen at night when its illuminated beautifully by lights, which makes for a stunning view. There are always events going on or shows to watch there as well as guided tours around the opera house itself; if that doesn’t sound like enough fun, try enjoying some tasty food inside its premises!

It has a stunning five-minute walk from Circular Quay Station. It’s backed by the city skyline, Sydney Harbour Bridge and sparkling blue water. Drink in views of this lovable landmark outside Opera Bar or dine inside one of its shells at upscale Bennelong restaurant below.

You’ll also get great views from the rooftop café at the MCA (Museum of Contemporary Art Australia) or Sydney Harbour Bridge opposite, while strolling in The Domain park beside The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. You can enjoy close-ups from a ferry to Manly Beach, Taronga Zoo and Watsons Bay too!

2. Go For A Surf At Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is an iconic Eastern Beaches beauty and a popular draw for surfers and sunbathers alike. The beach’s proximity to the city makes it perfect for swimmers; its long curve of golden sand lapped by waves is a great sightseeing! This famous Eastern beaches wonder has beautiful views across the ocean that can be enjoyed on the 6-kilometer Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk – through verdant green parks past historic houses with red roofs which you’ll never want leave behind.

Despite being a popular tourist destination with several souvenir shops, surf boutiques, and topless beaches for sunbathing- this beach maintains an edgy feel.

3. Climb The Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city, and one that you’ll get to climb during your time here! You need a minimum age of 15 years old in order to participate.

You will be accompanied by experienced Climb Leaders who are trained with all necessary equipment for safety purposes. Those participating should take note that they must come prepared with weather-appropriate gear for this experience as well offers amazing views from atop the walkway when completed!

If you only have a little time, the express climb is slightly shorter and takes you up along the inner structure so that your surrounded by hand-riveted steel.

The latest addition is the BridgeClimb’s offering, scaling from end-to-end of Sydney Harbor bridge for full arching experience with some sightseeing along the way. You should definitely go all in on this option as it offers nothing but pure fun and excitement!

4. Visit The Wonderful Sydney Harbour

Australia’s beautiful Sydney Harbor stretches over 150 miles of coastline and consists of more than 30 square miles. It is not surprising that many visitors have been known to call it the most beautiful natural harbor in the world, which has earned them a reputation as being quite accurate with their claim. The spectacular sights include landmarks like Royal Botanic Garden and Opera House which preside above its waters while another iconic site -the Harbour Bridge towers high above this wondrous body water.

Sydney Harbour is a great place to visit. It’s free, but many of the attractions here have an entrance fee so prepare accordingly. You can walk around or take ferry from Circular Quay and there are also public restrooms, parking lots where you can park your car for some time as well as restaurants, parks and shops throughout which make it even more interesting.

5. Come Surf At Manly Beach

Manly Beach is one of Sydney’s most famous beaches. It’s a huge sweep of golden sand backed by pretty pine trees, and it’s actually three different parts: South Steyne, North Steyne (also known as Queenscliff), and the surf-friendly part that stretches almost two kilometers long up to Palm Beach.

If you take the iconic Manly Ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf, be sure to grab a seat outside for amazing views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and city skyline. On arrival at Manly Wharf, enjoy either family-friendly harbor beaches or head down The Corso across the peninsula to the oceanfront Manly Beach on one side.

6. Visit Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Garden is a 74-acre space that has different sections for you to explore. One section, the Australian Rainforest Garden houses bright and colorful plants native in Australia including fauna like lizards. The park also includes areas such as one of Sydney’s popular wedding venues called Palace Rose Gardens which features nearly 1,800 roses with an amazing view of Harbour Bridge.

Some previous visitors of the Royal Botanic Garden describe it as a welcome break from busy city life. The garden’s plethora of restaurants and cafes also receive rave reviews, especially its café which is known for providing lunch boxes perfect to bring on picnics in nature.

7. Travel To The Oldest Colonial Neighborhood: The Rocks

The Royal Botanic Garden is a 74-acre space that has different sections for you to explore. One section, the Australian Rainforest Garden houses bright and colorful plants native in Australia including fauna like lizards. The park also includes areas such as one of Sydney’s popular wedding venues called Palace Rose Gardens which features nearly 1,800 roses with an amazing view of Harbour Bridge.

Some previous visitors of the Royal Botanic Garden describe it as a welcome break from busy city life. The garden’s plethora of restaurants and cafes also receive rave reviews, especially its café which is known for providing lunch boxes perfect to bring on picnics in nature.

The Rocks holds many secrets to the city’s past. At The Rocks Discovery Museum, visitors can explore restored 1850s warehouses and learn more about Australia’s history. If you visit on weekends, be sure to check out Jack Mundey Place where there are lively markets full of food stalls!

8. Get Ready To Be Wild At Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is a 20-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay. The zoo is divided into six sections according to the continent of which they are native to, so many visitors find it helpful in learning about Australian wildlife.

This zoo has a diverse range of animals, and is passionate about conservation. It also offers scenic views of Sydney Harbour with its ropes adventure course and sky safari that will help you navigate the large space comfortably. You can even sleep in tents at the zoo to give it an authentic camping experience!

9. Bring Out Your Paint Brush At The Art Gallery of New South Whales

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the best places to view modern and contemporary art in Sydney. It also holds a vast collection that dates back to 1871, right after it was established. The gallery maintains free admission for its permanent collections but ticketed shows are available at an extra fee.

Highlights of the museum include paintings from contemporary Australian artists such as Fred Williams, Brett Whiteley, Grace Cossington Smith, Margaret Preston and John Brack who have captured iconic local landscapes in their art. Take a look at 19th-century Australians Eugene von Guérard for his landscape depictions. Don’t miss Tom Roberts and Arthur Streeton whose works depict Sydney Harbour Bridge among other things! The permanent collection is an absolute must see while the changing exhibitions bag most headlines around town.

If you only have time to see one Sydney gallery, then this is your go-to. This art museum specializes in Australian art and offers three different galleries: classical, contemporary Aboriginal Australian , and a gorgeous Mediterranean inspired Art Gallery Restaurant . Every Wednesday night from 5 p.m., the opening hours extend until 9 p.m where fans of these works can check out an offshoot studio called Brett Whiteley Studio located in Surry Hills that was once used by late artist Brett Whitely himself; it’s intimate setting makes for great views with its indoor/outdoor café as well as gift shop which has all kinds of goodies!

10. Soak Up At Coogee Beach

A smaller version of Australia’s famous Bondi Beach, Coogee is the perfect spot for those looking to soak up some sun and swim in Sydney’s beautiful waters. Snorkeling is a popular pastime here as well as partaking on the scenic coastal walk that runs from one beach to another which gives visitors several places at their disposal when it comes time for them to refuel after all this activity.

Despite its limited parking, visitors raved about their time at Coogee Beach. They said that the beach is gorgeous and perfect for watching sunsets on with family or friends since it’s less crowded than other beaches in Sydney. The food was also praised by recent travelers as being delicious!

11. Grab A Lavished Dinner At Circular Quay

The views of the crystal-blue Sydney Harbour waters and excellent gourmet dining options make Circular Quay a great place to eat. Some particularly delicious options include ARIA, the Sydney Cove Oyster Bar, Yayoi Garden and Tapavino; there’s also budget options such as Banh You Vietnamese Street Food or burgers at City Extra for those on a tight schedule.

12. Wander At Darling Harbour

The Darling Harbour is a recreational complex adjacent to Sydney’s city centre, with breathtaking river views and plenty to keep you well-fed and entertained. The attractions include the serene Chinese Garden of Friendship, its lovely teahouse, the Carousel at Cockle Bay Wharf; National Maritime Museum ,and Dockside Pavilion.

If you’re interested in seeing the sights and attractions of Sydney Harbour, make sure to give yourself at least a day to enjoy all that it has to offer. The harbour includes many notable features such as an aquarium, nightlife scene, shopping center with laser tag area; there is so much more than what meets the eye!

13. Taste The Legendary Cheesecake At Lorraine’s Patisserie

If you think there is nothing better than a good cheesecake, I promise that your taste buds have never been introduced to Lorraine’s. It’s like eating the cloud and stars – light as air with just enough lemon flavor and an amazing cinnamon crust.

Her brownies are almost as famous for their chocolatey depth, which inspired Black Star Pastry’s celebrated strawberry watermelon cake (patron-chef Chris Thé trained under Godsmark before he set off on his own).

14. Grab A Drink At Young Henry’s Brewery

Young Henry’s Brewery is a glorious selection of beer, wines and wines coolers. The menu will excite any craft beer aficionado with it’s range of delicious options and prestige labels.

The Brewery has everything from European inspired classics like Schooner; their iced beers; iced wine as well as the yummy pale ale. The menu even has gluten-free options like Liefmans fruit lambics and an impressive list of blended beers created by the brewery.

Newtown’s bohemian vibe was showcased in the diverse crowd, making it an ideal starting point for a brewery crawl around the Inner West.

15. Thrill Yourself At Luna Park

Luna Park is one of Sydney’s most iconic amusement parks, built in 1935. It features a range of traditional amusement rides for kids, teenagers and adults alike.

If you want to go on an exciting rollercoaster, the Wild Mouse is perfect for that. But if dinner with your date sounds more romantic, Luna Park has a first-class dining experience inside of a ferris wheel carriage every Sunday.

There’s a Coney Island area, inspired by the actual place in America. It’s an old-school funhouse with sideshow games and traditional retro entertainment, like a mirror maze.

16. Visit Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair

People have been coming from all over the world just to see Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, which is a famous landmark that provides unique views of Sydney Harbor and one-of-a kind photos.

Despite the fact that it may be packed on occasion, many people claim it is well worth the trip, especially for major events like as the Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks display and Australia Day Harbour Parade. Several advise coming early in the morning to capture the best lighting for your photographs.

Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is located north of the Royal Botanic Garden. The path called Mrs. Macquarie’s Bushland Walk that extends from the Botanic Garden to the chair can also be followed.

17. Cruise Or Ferry Around The Circular Quay & Darling Harbour

After a long day on the road, cruisin’ past the opera house and admiring the city’s beautiful scenery is a fantastic way to unwind.

There are several sightseeing cruises that are catered, but if you’re on a budget, you may get the same views for less money by taking the bus: a trip from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour costs around $4.

18. Stop By At Cockatoo Island

Cockatoo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site with an industrial shipbuilding history, blends convict history with colonial penal colony ruins.

Cockatoo Island was a convict penal settlement from 1839 until 1869, when it held 550 men who constructed their own huts. With their hard lives coming to an end, they became the basis for much more industry. For over a century, the Cockatoo Island Dockyard saw thousands of workers construct warships and work on passenger liners and submarines, leaving behind a enormous Turbine Shop and towering cranes.

Cockatoo Island is perfect for adventurers seeking adventure and history enthusiasts. Bring a picnic (no alcohol allowed) or refuel at one of the convenient restaurants. Both Marina Café & Bar and Societé Overboard serve light meals, pizzas, coffee, and wine on Saturday nights.

19. Watch A Film At The Golden Age Cinema And Bar

The slightly scratchy, 1940s-era chairs at Golden Age have a bracing kind of stiffness about them in the era of cinema seats that are often chock-full of padding and so huge you could squeeze in a body double. Especially for a film buff whose main issue with watching a movie is (randomly) falling asleep halfway through.

Golden Age, launched in 2013, offers classic, cult, and current release films with a preference for Australian and independent movies; creative feature pairings; and documentaries. Film nights include film trivia evenings, DJ events, and music performances by up-and-coming singer-songwriters and bands.

Sydney has a number of nice cinemas, but this private gathering is unique and edgy. It attracts a creative, young crowd that enjoys design, fashion, and excellent drinks as well as film fans. The structure also draws foodies with the adjacent Paramount Coffee Project café and Poly wine bar, as well as the inspiring Paramount House Hotel.

20. Breathe Fresh Air At The Chinese Garden Of Friendship

This exquisite garden in Darling Harbour is a breath of fresh air in the city.The Chinese Garden of Friendship was constructed as a symbol of friendship between Sydney, New South Wales, and the city of Guangzhou in Guangdong province, China (sister cities of sister states), to commemorate Sydney’s bicentennial in 1988.

The walled garden, designed and constructed by Chinese landscape architects and gardeners, follows the Taoist principles of “Yin-Yang,” the opposing yet complementary and balanced forces, and “Wu-Xing,” the five elements or phases – wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.The Lake Gardens, Europe’s largest collection of water gardens, are a picturesque spot to visit. Water rushes and pools dot the landscape, which is complemented by palms and wooden bridges. Waterfalls, lakes, foreign plants, pavilions, and hidden passageways are all among the attractions available for viewing. The Garden’s three daily guided tours are included with admission and are a wonderful way to learn about the garden.

21. Chill At Cow & Moon

In 2014, an Enmore gelateria from Australia took home the title for world’s best gelato and defeated competitors from 22 other countries (yes, including Italy).

Every day, you may select from 26 different flavors, such as sorbets. The time-saving option is to get a tub takeaway early. Flavor-wise, there are plenty of options for traditionalists. The international award for the blend of coffee and sweet candied almonds went to Mandorla affogato, which is made with passionfruit creme.

22. Get A Sunrise Swim at Bronte Baths

This salty ocean pool is popular with early risers for salty laps and Instagram photos of the sunrise, which are carved into the rocky cliffside. At Bronte Beach, the waves can be overwhelming for novices, but you may still get the best of both worlds with a secure saltwater pool that has waves pounding against the walls.

It may be difficult to reach the top of this lookout before 7 a.m., but it’s worth it for the view of the sun rising over the ocean. Come early and watch the sun break over the horizon from here; it’s quite memorable.

23. Broaden Your Mind At The Museum Of Contemporary Arts

The MCA (Modernist Centre of Australia) is a year-round destination for modern and left-of-center art in Sydney. The museum is also open late on Friday evenings until 9pm, and it is open six days a week.

This seaside museum, which was once the administration headquarters of Canada’s Maritime Services Board, was completely overhauled (well, almost) in 2011 and re-opened in March 2012 with light, airy, uncluttered interiors, more floor space, and a boxy new appearance. The building has several breathtaking features, including a glass-wrapped atrium with two bridges, rooftop café and sculpture terrace, high-tech education center, and 120-seat lecture theatre and courtyard.

24. Visit The Iconic Paddy’s Market

Paddy’s Market is a shopper’s paradise, with stalls selling everything from locally produced food and fish to clothing and accessories.

Paddy’s Markets is a famous Sydney attraction located in the city’s business center, on the banks of the River Nepean. The market comprises of two levels and displays more than 500 vendors, including arts & crafts, fashion, bric-a-brac, fresh food, and souvenirs.

25. Take A Trip To Palm Beach

The ideal All-Inclusive Australian package is Palm Beach. This popular beach on the Northern Beaches, one hour west of Sydney’s CBD, offers a peaceful escape from city life.

Palm Beach is not only the setting for Alf Stewart’s favorite fishing hole, but it’s also the perfect spot for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. There is quiet water on one side for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, while big waves abound on the other side for surfing. Plus, you may stroll to the lighthouse on the hill.

Things To Do in Sydney

Sydney is a city with so much to offer it’s hard to know where to start. Whether you would like go for an adventure, swim and surf at the beach, have awesome pictures or try their delicacies, you can always enjoy it in our top 25 best things to do in Sydney. Have this list with you as you explore the beauty of Sydney. Let us know your experiences!

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