Sydney is one of the most famous and photographed cities in the world and definitely one of my favourite destinations. I’ve visited a number of times now and I always find something new to do or see. This is my guide to the best things to do in Sydney, Australia.
Watch the sun set over the harbour
Sydney Harbour, with the iconic Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, is possibly one of the most famous and photographed locations in the world. No matter what the angle or the time of day, it never fails to impress me. Every time I see it feels like I am looking at it with new eyes.
That being said, sunset over the harbour really is something extra special. I also think that the view from a distance is that little bit more impressive, mainly because it looks less crowded than it is up close. Head over to Mrs. McQuarie’s Point just before sunset and find a spot to see the magic happen. Just don’t expect to have the place to yourself.
Spend an afternoon at the Grounds of Alexandria
Located in a former warehouse in the suburb of Alexandria outside the city, the Grounds is like something from a fairytale. A cafe, a restaurant and bar, an animal garden and a garden, all in their own separate little areas, blend together to make a magical atmosphere that is a joy to explore.
I was lucky enough to visit just before Christmas, when the place had been transformed into a winter wonderland with a Nutcracker and the 4 Realms theme. Details of other events throughout the year, as well as a description of the different spaces can be found on the official Grounds website.
Walk the Coogee to Bondi coastal path
The Bondi to Coogee walk is definitely one of the most popular free things to do for visitors to Sydney. For the best experience, I recommend going early in the day, before it gets too hot or too windy. For anybody who isn’t staying at Bondi, I also recommend starting at Coogee (you can get a direct bus from the city centre), and walking to Bondi. You can spend the rest of the day there soaking up the sun and the chilled out atmosphere.
The views on the walk are spectacular rom start to finish. You’ll pass several other smaller beaches where you can take a little rest and have an ice cream or a smoothie. It’s a 6km walk but give yourself lots of time to stop and enjoy the views on the way.
Go surfing at Bondi beach
I don’t surf (I can’t even swim), but for anybody who does, surfing at Bondi is definitely one for the bucket list.
See the bird cages at Angel Place
In the very heart of the city, amongst all the urbanisation, lies the Forgotten Songs art installation at Angel Place. The empty birdcages suspended overhead commemorate the songs of fifty birds no longer heard in Sydney, as they were gradually pushed out by European settlement.
Popular mostly as an Instagram location, Forgotten Songs really is so much more than that. The bird calls heard change form day to night and are a reminder of the cost of progress, as more and more species are pushed from their natural habitats. Read more about Forgotten Songs here.
Have a drink at the Opera Bar
Although I know that the best views of the harbour certainly aren’t from Circular Quay itself, the location of the Opera Bar makes it very hard to resist. Outdoor seating overlooking the Opera House and the bridge are the perfect setting to enjoy an early evening drink or two.
Enjoy the views and the atmosphere at Bondi Icebergs
At the end of the Coogee to Bondi walk, you’ll find Bondi Icebergs swimming club. With a saltwater swimming pool overlooking the ocean and Bondi beach from the southern end, it is another of Sydneys favourite Instagram spots. Open to non-members, it’s a great place to enjoy beautiful views of the iconic beach, from either the pool itself or the bar or restaurant.
See the fireworks at Darling Harbour
Every Saturday night as it gets dark, enjoy the fireworks display at Darling Harbour. It’s a short but impressive show and definitely worth a look. Times vary slight depending on the season. Check out the full list of times here.
See the city from above
Everybody loves a good aerial city view, and Sydney offers a few options to get that perfect Instagram pic. The Sydney Tower observation deck boasts views of the city from 250 metres above. The pylon lookout promises views of the city as well as 3 different levels of exhibits on the way up, detailing the history of the bridge itself. Or if your feeling adventurous, and have a little cash to splash, there is the Sydney bridge climb. No loose items such as phones or cameras are allowed on the climb, so if photos are a priority, this is probably not the best option.
Take a tour or see a show at Sydney Opera House
As one of the most famous and instantly recognisable buildings in Australia, and possible the world, just enjoying the Opera House from outside is pretty spectacular. It is only scratching the surface though, so if you want to truly appreciate it, I recommend seeing inside also.
There are various tours on offer to suit all tastes. From regular tours to backstage tours and the “Tour and Dine” option, there’s something for everyone. You can book your tours on the official Sydney Opera House website. If you are actually a fan of the opera, you could go to see a show and experience the accoustics of this amazing venue for yourself. See what’s on here.
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