A melting pot for some of the best dining, drinks, as well as sights in the country, there is never a shortage of fun things to do in Sydney, Australia — From sunny beaches to wineries and from luxury retail on Pitt Street Mall to some of the most epic views from a tower in New South Wales. With so many great places to see and several beautiful Sydney tourist attractions, sometimes deciding where you spend your time can be difficult.
If you are looking for something new and eclectic or want to try out some of the unique places to visit in Sydney, we have compiled a list of the most talked-about activities and attractions for all types of enthusiasts: dining enthusiasts, wine connoisseurs, sightseers, and everyone in between! For everyone who loves travel and experience, this city stands proudly as one of the most popular travel destinations.
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is one of the most visited attractions around, and with such a spectacular array of things to do, it’s easy to see why. It is the location of the Australian National Maritime Museum, The Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Aquarium, and Madame Tussauds, amongst many other top Sydney attractions.
Uniquely, Darling Harbour features two large public transport interchanges, which you’ll need to get to this spot. A visit to the harbor will give you some spectacular views and amazing photo opportunities!
By Adam.J.W.C., CC BY-SA 2.5, Link
Address: Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vPtcxLPdhLhVgdr47 | Phone Number: +61292408500
Catch a show at Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House is a world-renowned performing arts venue. The Opera House was designed by Danish architect Joern Utzon and has been captivating opera fans since 1973. It is an iconic piece of architecture which you can enjoy from many different spots around the city.
The location of the Opera House can make you feel as if it appears as a jewel placed there by a creator. You can enjoy this unbelievable white building of Opera House standing proudly and elegantly welcoming everyone to its doors from the ocean, as well.
Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QwNwBZ5LgYQQ7Wy89 | Phone Number: +61292507111
The historic Paddy’s Markets
There is no doubt that Paddy’s Market in Sydney’s Haymarket is one of the best Sydney tourist spots to go and check out. While this is a place like any other, it has its very own vibe, and you won’t regret stepping in. Paddy’s Market has recently been refurbished and come back with a bang.
Paddy’s Market now presents a collection of large clothing factories in the Sydney suburb of Alexandria. The market also features a variety of specialty shops and home décor stores. Conveniently located in the city, Paddy’s is only a 5-minute drive from the Sydney CBD.
By Philip Terry Graham, CC0, Link
Address: Building D/250 318 Parramatta Rd, Homebush West New South Wales 2140, Australia | Timing: Friday 10:00 am to 4:30 pm; Saturday 6:00 am to 2:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/paddysmarketsflemington?share | Phone Number: +61293256200
Go sightseeing with I’m Free Walking Tours Sydney
Imagine walking through one of the best cities at your own pace, free from the constraints of an expensive tour guide. Imagine discovering some of the hidden gems on offer while walking through some of the most historic and interesting areas. That’s what you get with I’m Free Walking Tours. They offer local guides who will give you authentic and independent advice. All you need to do is turn up and tour for a cost-effective ticket. The best part? 5% of profits go to charity. So, do a good cause and tour a beautiful city.
Address: 483 George St, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm; Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10:30 am to 1:30 pm; Sunday-Monday Closed | Google Map Location: https://g.page/imfreeSydney?share | Phone Number: +61405515654
Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Bridge is Australia’s most famous landmark. It’s an impressive feat of engineering and is among the world’s largest (in terms of main arch span) steel bridges. The Harbour Bridge is an arch bridge that carries rail, vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between the central business district (CBD) and the North Shore.
The dramatic view of the bridge, the harbor, and the nearby Sydney Opera House is an iconic image of the country. To experience Sydney at its best, you really need to climb up the Harbour Bridge bridge and see it from there.
By Adam.J.W.C., CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney New South Wales, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/2BwwjWppzUTLvyBn9 | Phone Number: +61282747777
Bondi Beach
You’ve seen the images, you’ve dreamed of the blue skies and brilliant sun. Bondi is a haven for surfers and walkers alike; you never feel alone even on the busiest summer’s day. The main beach itself is long and sandy, and it has all manner of options for refreshment dotted along its length, from the hole-in-the-wall bars with cheap sangria to posh restaurants with drop-in juice bars. After all, Bondi Beach is a place that never sleeps.
Check out the tent cities, filled with thousands of travelers from all over the world. These tenters have been around since the late 60s and early 70s and have become part of the character of Bondi Beach.
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By Alex Proimos, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: New South Wales 2026 | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5QJeDbsJr645Kpcp9
Royal Botanic Garden
Royal Botanic Gardens is among the most popular places to spend your spare time. The Royal Botanic Gardens is located in the district at Mrs. Macquarie’s Road. The gardens are spread across 220 hectares, at the foot of the Blue Mountains — a 30-minute drive west of Sydney CBD.
The Botanic Gardens have been operating for more than 250 years. This historic garden encompasses 30 hectares of land, setting the trend for 21st-century botanical gardens through its displays of unique plants. It is no wonder then that the garden has now become one of Sydney’s most favorite attractions.
By Ham, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6QYX9RXd1cC6yNnT8 | Phone Number: +61292318111
Circular Quay
One of the most famous attractions in the city is Circular Quay and a must-visit tourist destination. Circular Quay is located in the CBD (Central Business District). The views from the Darling Harbour end of the Quay are incredible, and you can pretty much see all of Sydney from up there. You can further explore the central sights, buildings, and streets from the vantage point of the Observation Hill.
The Circular Quay includes the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the ferry harbor, and other important buildings. You can catch ferries from the ferry harbor to Manly Beach, Watsons Bay, and other places. The closest train station that goes straight to Circular Quay is Wynyard Station. It is also well-suited for those who enjoy seeing the world on their two feet!
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Address: Sydney New South Wales 2000 | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ng4VuNG4tJyLcw3e8
Fun times at iconic Luna Park
Luna Park focuses on providing guests with a great day out. The heritage amusement park is a much-loved part of Sydney’s history and is a great destination for tourists and locals to enjoy. Towering at 110 meters, its huge red, blue, and yellow curves are unmistakable. Watch for the screams of fun seekers on the coasters echo at Luna Park.
By Adam.J.W.C., CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point New South Wales 2061, Australia | Timing: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/hhfM5Gv1a12Vptv9A | Phone Number: +61299226644
Take a Home and Away Tour
Recently entering its 36th year, Home and Away have become one of Australia’s most successful television shows. The residents of Summer Bay have seen it all on screen, but what is life really like living in the Sunshine State?
Take the “Home and Away” Tour and find out all the Sydney attractions. Enjoy an incredible, fun-filled day exploring the iconic locations of Home and Away. Visit the stunning location around, accompanied by your expert tour guides.
Coogee Beach
Coogee is a beachside suburb and the easternmost of the contiguous suburbs along the southern coastal strip tour in New South Wales. Coogee is on Burranaba (Coogee) Beach, 3 km east of the central business district, and is part of the Bayside Council.
During their holidays, many people head here for watersports, including surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing. It’s a popular destination on weekends and summers because of ease of access and for having a fun vibe.
Address: Coogee New South Wales 2034, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4tbr8zL7kpQg8X6AA
Manly Beach
Everyone knows and loves Manly Beach. Far away from the noisy and bustling of the city lies a lovely coastal wonderland of sand, surf, sun, ferry, and relaxation. It sits on the beautiful Northern Beaches of Sydney, right next to its much bigger sister, the famous Bondi Beach.
If you are looking to take a day tour, the beach can be a lovely choice. It is known for its lovely views of the ocean and for its magnificent cliff top walks. This popular attraction has something to offer everyone.
By Enochlau, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: New South Wales, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/u1nfm4eFg5oiHWJi9
Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair
Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is the city’s most photogenic and iconic heritage site. The site can be found on Sydney Harbour and is easy to locate as there is a lovely viewing platform right next to it.
Currently, it stands as one of the most popular Sydney tourist spots. In fact, you can’t go to the city and not visit Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair and the place it is located.
By Mitch Ames, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 1d Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/mayTnS3SPNRnQC2R8 | Phone Number: +61292318111
Visit the beautiful Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains is home to over half of Sydney’s World Heritage-listed National Parks, offering some lovely bush-walking, wildlife spotting, and general exploring opportunities in the great city. From gorges to waterfalls, there are several top things to do in the Blue Mountains.
The Blue Mountains are an incredible Sydney tourist attraction thanks to the spectacular views of the Jamison Valley, the Three Sisters, and the Ha Ha. The free Katoomba Scenic Railway is also a must-see so you can get closer to the mountain tops.
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Address: New South Wales, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9ccEAwaXrjtx9CBz7
Explore the Greenery at Garigal National Park
Garigal National Park has walkable trails surrounding the northernmost tip of the famous Bondi Beach. If you’ve ever visited the Blue Mountains but wanted to go further, then Garigal is the place to be. Just an hour west of Sydney, this place is full of fun activities as well as plenty of greenery for you to enjoy.
It offers a taste of nature to those who want to be close to the great outdoors without having to travel too far. Set within the Royal National Park, this place offers a different landscape from its counterpart. Don’t miss the lush backdrop of eucalyptus trees and grassland.
By Travelstine, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 75FQ+9V, St Ives NSW 2075, Australia | Timing: 6:00 am to 6:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/84bD6qrBQZQYRSP99 | Phone Number: +61294513479
Watch a Cricket Match and More at Sydney Cricket Ground
Sydney Cricket Ground, known as the SCG, is one of Australia’s most famous sports landmarks. It’s where the Ashes are contested, where the BBL runs until February, as well as one of the most popular sports places in Sydney for an afternoon out. In fact, SCG is one of the most impressive sports facilities in the world. Built in 1853, it is situated in the suburb of Moore Park.
The SCG complex includes sports venues like the rectangular ANZ stadium, Roddick stadium (tennis), or Sydney Showground (smaller oval grounds). The Sydney Football Club has its home ground here even though they moved to a new stadium in 2005.
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By Marc Dalmulder, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: Driver Ave, Moore Park NSW 2021, Australia | Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AYK51oWWR7sN8esP6 | Phone Number: +61293606601
Taronga Zoo Sydney
Sydney has a lot to offer when it comes to things to do, but one of the greatest places to visit here in Sydney is Taronga Zoo. Taronga Zoo is a harbor side zoo that is home to around 1,300 animals from over 250 species, and the zoo is a lot of fun for visitors of all ages.
The Taronga Zoo is the only place you’ll find some of the Australian native species. An assortment of kangaroos, koalas, wombats, platypus, echidnas is just among some of what you’ll find here. This zoo is a great way to connect with your fauna side.
Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia | Timing: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AsnjgoCekHPAVwzq6 | Phone Number: +61299692777
Art Gallery of New South Wales
The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the premier galleries in Australia. It was first opened in 1874 and opened in 1895 by Sir William Manning, the then-governor of New South Wales. Ever since it has continually progressed into what it is today.
Today, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the most visited attractions because it caters to such a wide audience. The art displayed here is more than just paintings. It includes drawings, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, photographs, prints, historical documents, and even moving images.
One of the more famous items in the gallery is called “The Women of Darfur” by John Nyarady, a beautiful piece that captures the horrors of Sudan.
Address: Art Gallery Rd, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KjsHdj5r8bukRmSE8 | Phone Number: +61292251700
Hyde Park Barracks
Hyde Park Barracks is one of the most famous heritage buildings. Originally known as the Rum Hospital, the site was built in 1816 in the style of a European castle with battlements, turrets, and crenellation.
This historic site and museum were built by Governor Lachlan Macquarie between 1816 and 1819 and remain substantially intact. The building served as the principal barracks for the NSW Corps and later as a military hospital and guardianship office until 1904. The barracks now houses a museum that interprets the history of New South Wales. The site was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on 2 April 1999.
By JERRYE ROY KLOTZ MD, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Queens Square, Macquarie St, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/hyde-park-barracks-Sydney?share | Phone Number: +61282392311
St. Mary’s Cathedral
St. Mary’s Cathedral is a church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney. It was designed by Edward Gell and built between 1836 and 1868. It is located in the heart of the CBD, on the corner of College and George Streets, and near the Town Hall within the City Centre Heritage conservation area.
St. Mary’s Cathedral, the oldest church in the city, is worth visiting for its beautiful interior. The cathedral has high ceilings with old stained-glass windows and intricate architectural details. It appears black from a distance but is actually dark brown. In the back of the building, there is a graveyard with an impressive tomb where famous convicts are buried.
For its size, the St. Mary’s Cathedral is considered one of the finest artworks ever produced by European architects and artists in Australia. The church is regarded as wonderfully warm and elegant. This church has been around for years, and when you take a ferry tour, you will be amazed by the beauty that surrounds you. There is a lot to see in this cathedral — from the old-fashioned stained-glass windows to the statues tucked in corners throughout.
By JohnArmagh, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: St Marys Rd, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9uMfLBt2ndGPCNtb8 | Phone Number: +61292200400
Sydney Tower Skywalk
If there’s one thing that will define your visit to Sydney then it’s undoubtedly the Sydney Tower Skywalk. Located at the top of Sydney Tower, this privately-owned attraction provides visitors with an alternative to the typical view from the observation deck. It is the tallest structure in Sydney as well as one of the biggest in Australia.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you’ll love this activity. The Sydney Tower Skywalk is one of the world’s highest as well as longest cantilever walks and suspends 88.5 meters above the ground.
Address: Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia | Timing: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/D9cZbQAPmCy5aCb96
Learn how to Surf
The city is home to some lovely surfing spots in the country, from Manly Beach in the north to Cronulla in the south. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to surf, start here in Oz’s iconic sun-drenched harbourside city.
Not only is it crazy beautiful and home to some lovely beaches, but people here are generally friendly, and the weather is pretty awesome. No experience? No worries. You can rent a board and wetsuit for $20, and there are great surf schools all over the place.
The Rocks
The Rocks is the oldest area in Sydney. It is quite small, but it is packed with history, stories, and things to do! You can spend hours here exploring the small alleyways and historic buildings. No matter whether you are visiting on a business tour or looking to spend time with family, The Rocks is an ideal day ferry tour away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
The Rocks now proudly stand as a place where people go to eat, drink, and party. It’s one of the most popular spots in Sydney for tourists and locals as well as an essential ‘must-do’ on any tourist itinerary.
By Cookaa, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bz8n65ov4P27QHhC6
Australian National Maritime Museum
Visiting this historic museum has become something of a rite of passage for tourists here. The first museum to be constructed on Darling Island, it was built to house the Maritime Services Board of New South Wales. Today, the Australian National Maritime Museum occupies the site and is one of Sydney’s most popular museums.
The museum is on a harbor and a spit of land with water on two sides. The architecture of the museum echoes the tall sails of tall ships, as well as an old whaling station. The roof structure of the museum is very tall and triangular-shaped.
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By Tony Hisgett, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 2 Murray St, Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia | Timing: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/sea-museum?share | Phone Number: +61292983777
Sunset at North Head
Visiting North Head is one of the most unique things to do in Sydney. The area has tremendous views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, as well as the Sydney Harbour skyline. There are several vantage points to see these landmarks, including viewing platforms at Fort Banquette and Fort Macquarie.
A visit here offers an unparalleled experience. First, get your camera. Then, grab a loved one and a bottle of champagne. Pack a picnic blanket and travel to The Spit. We would recommend traveling there in the evening when the sun is just about to set. After sunset, you’ll have views that can be seen nowhere else in Sydney.
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By portengaround, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Manly NSW 2095, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/hMwPXCgDpKLy1mVu6
Barbecue at The Beach
What better way to spend a beautiful summer day than having an outdoor barbecue at one of the beaches! Have you ever had an authentic Australian Barbecue?
Aussies love to have a good time by cooking up some great dining experiences. Get together with your friends and jump into the waves at the beach. After all, there is something so satisfying about eating outdoors with gorgeous weather.
By Tom Harpel, CC BY 2.0, Link
Hunter Valley: Australia’s oldest Wine Region
The Hunter Valley is a region located on the New South Wales and Queensland border and is surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, Newcastle, and Port Stephens. The Hunter Valley Wine Region is Australia’s oldest and largest wine-producing region, accounting for two-thirds of Australia’s wine production.
If you are interested in wine, then a tour to the Hunter Valley is a must. Some of Australia’s greatest wines come from this region in New South Wales — and it really is a beautiful part of the world. Excellent hotels, great restaurants, and fantastic vineyards make this area well worth a visit in its own right!
By F Delventhal, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: New South Wales, Australia | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oqbiVzaD46fgpqey7
What to do in Sydney? Now, that’s a loaded question. Thanks to its eye-catching harbor, sandy beaches, famous landmarks, as well as a buzzing nightlife, Sydney consistently ranks highly on the list of the world’s great cities. After all, it is Australia’s largest city as well as New South Wales’ central business district. It is located on the southeast coast at the mouth of the Cooks River, with Sydney Harbour on its north side.
When you come here you will hardly have time to consider the best Sydney attractions, there are so many to enjoy. While there are many different best things to do in Sydney, you can also enjoy the cosmopolitan lifestyle. Shopping, dining, sightseeing, and traveling are all within easy reach. Sydney is full of energy as well as activity, which is reflected in its colorful homes, vibrant streets, and entertaining nightlife.
