Best things to do in Sydney
Find out more about those top places in Sydney
Sydney Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Places to Visit, and Things to Do in Australia’s Harbour City
When it comes to top attractions in Australia, few sights are as instantly recognizable as the Sydney Opera House. Jutting out into Sydney Harbour with the majestic Harbour Bridge as its backdrop, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed icon has come to define the city—and indeed, the nation. But while the Opera House is a must on any Sydney travel guide, there’s far more to discover beyond its photogenic sails.
Sydney is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that blends fascinating history, natural beauty, and a world-class food scene. Whether you're here for a few days or a longer stay, there are countless things to do in Sydney that cater to all types of travelers.
Start with the classics. Of course, no visit would be complete without some sightseeing at the Sydney Opera House and a walk across the Harbour Bridge. But once you’ve ticked off these icons, head off the beaten track to experience some of the city's lesser-known gems.
One of the most scenic places to visit in Sydney is the Hermitage Foreshore Walk. This spectacular coastal trail meanders along the eastern edge of Sydney Harbour, offering peaceful beaches, rocky headlands, and panoramic views back toward the city skyline and Opera House. Keep an eye out for sunbathing water dragons along the path—it’s a nature-lover’s paradise just minutes from the urban core.
For a deep dive into the city’s past, explore the historic neighborhoods of The Rocks and Millers Point. These areas are rich in colonial architecture and were among the first parts of the city settled by convicts sent from across the British Empire. Wander the cobbled laneways, visit the Rocks Discovery Museum, and imagine Sydney’s transformation from penal colony to global city.
If you're looking for cultural flair and culinary adventures, Sydney won’t disappoint. Once working-class and overlooked, suburbs like Newtown, Balmain, and Surry Hills are now at the heart of the city’s thriving food and arts scenes. These neighborhoods are perfect places to visit in Sydney for street art, boutique shopping, and sampling some of the best coffee and international cuisine the city has to offer. From hole-in-the-wall dumpling bars to award-winning degustation restaurants, Sydney is a foodie’s dream.
Bondi Beach may be one of the city’s top attractions, but there’s so much more coastline to explore. Take the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for ocean views, rock pools, and beachside cafes—or venture to quieter spots like Watsons Bay or Manly Beach, accessible by a scenic ferry ride across the harbour.
In many ways, Sydney is a microcosm of Australia—a city where laid-back beach culture meets fast-paced urban energy, where ancient Aboriginal heritage lives alongside modern design, and where every corner offers something new to discover. Whether you're here for iconic landmarks or local experiences, this travel guide to Sydney will help you uncover the city's many layers.
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Sydney Opera House
About 60 years ago, one of the greatest feats of the modern day was performed; the Sydney Opera House was designed. Famous Danish architect, Jorn Utzon designed this architectural wonder. The structure is now one of the busiest arts centers in the world.
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Sydney Harbor Bridge
This magical looking bridge flies across the Sydney Harbor and is used to convey vehicular traffic and pedestrians to and from North Shore and the central business district in Sydney. A simple look at this bridge sets you wondering at just how massive it is.
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Bondi Beach
The beach is one of Australia’s busiest beaches as it has many beautiful features that attract tourists to it all year long. Apart from the majestic beauty of the beach, the daring waves challenge the skills of surfers and the locals are often found to be swimming in the freezing iceberg ocean pool at the beach.
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Sydney Aquarium
Home to beautiful aquatic creatures like the saw fish, platypus, and sharks, Sydney Aquarium attracts many tourists to itself with ease. Also, you can be guaranteed a colorful and exciting display that is bound to entertain you.
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Jenolan Caves & Blue Mountains
If the breathtaking sight of the blue mountains is not enough to excite you, a tour around the Jenolan Caves is sure to do so. The many limestone caves and arches that curve above the ground are the main attractions in this area.
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Sydney Tower Eye
The Observation Deck that sits on the highest point of the city offers tourists the view of Sydney in all of its extravagant beauty. A tour around Sydney is not complete without treating yourself to this unforgettable sights.
