Best Things To Do in Sydney: An Iconic Guide to The City

We may be biased, but Sydney really does have it all: a sparkling harbour, iconic landmarks, postcard-perfect beaches, a thriving food and cultural scene, and big-city sophistication.

While you could spend a lifetime exploring every nook, cranny and cove, there are some things you must do, whether you are a local or visiting from out-of-town to spend a day exploring the harbour city. Read on for the all-time best things to do in Sydney. 

Embark on a Coastal Walk

With over 300km of coastline, a visit to Sydney is not complete without a coastal walk.

It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve done it, the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk never gets old. The path passes Bondi Icebergs, beaches, lookouts, rockpools and parks before finishing up at Coogee Beach. Fancy something less crowded? Try one of these.

Visit Sydney’s Iconic Beaches

No guide to Sydney would be complete without mention of Sydney’s spectacular beaches, with special mention to Bondi Beach. Whether you’re an avid Bondi Rescue fan or not, this beach is known the world over and is packed to the rafters on any sunny day.

For something on the quieter side, try one of Sydney’s hidden beaches here.

Sample the Best Local Bites

A killer coffee scene, ultra-fresh seafood and an incredible array of casual dining haunts make Sydney a delight for foodies. Whilst you can’t distil the city into one dish, you can find our edit of Sydney’s defining dishes here, which makes for a great place to start!

Step Back in Time at Historical Museums

For any history buffs in Sydney, you will not struggle to find a museum to peruse. Perhaps the most fascinating is the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour, filled with visual displays of Australia’s history. Covering migration, historic vessels, arts and culture, Indigenous history and ocean science, expect to leave with a few new facts up your sleeve. 

The Australian Museum is the oldest in Australia (it opened in 1857!), so we highly recommend setting aside time to explore the displays of natural history, science, technology and anthropology.

Experience Sydney’s Bold Natural Beauty

Sitting just south of Sydney and spanning a whopping 15,000 hectares of pristine bushland and coastline is Australia’s oldest National Park, the Royal National Park. From scenic lookouts and secluded beaches to wistful waterfalls, the best way to explore it all is via the many walking trails that wind through the national park. 

Perfect for Sydneysiders who need a quick escape from the cityscape, just remember to wear hiking boots and pack your camera!

Royal National Park, New South Wales

Explore The Rocks 

Let’s go back to the beginning — of Sydney’s history, that is. The Rocks are the oldest part of the city, and it’s a charming peek into the past: think cobblestoned streets, tiny laneways, sprawling pubs, and colonial buildings.

When you get there, fuel up with a coffee and gourmet goodies at The Fine Food Store. Not a big breakfast person? Pop into La Renaissance Patisserie for an almond croissant — they sell over 1000 a week! Then, stroll through The Rocks Square, Gloucester Walk and Campbell’s Cove, and check out The Rocks Discovery Museum. 

If you’re there on the weekend, wander the open-air market packed with high-quality Australian-made goodies. 

The Rocks, Sydney

Royal Botanic Garden 

Beautiful and serene, the Royal Botanic Garden is the perfect place to familiarise yourself with Australian wildlife. As you meander through, you’ll spot cockatoos, lizards, possums and butterflies, and colourful flowers in bloom. You can stroll at your own pace, or opt for a 1.5-hour guided tour led by a knowledgeable volunteer. 

For a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour, the best vantage point (and photo op) is Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Pack a picnic and soak up the harbour views. 

The perfect addition to your visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens is the hour-long bush tucker tour, led by a First Nations guide. Your knowledgeable guide will take you through the history of Aboriginal bush foods with an insight into how the same ingredients have been adapted into modern dishes.

Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney 

Experience the Icons

Exit the Botanic Garden, and walk around the harbour foreshore until you reach the Sydney Opera House. At the lower level, have lunch at Opera Bar. Then, catch a matinee show at the Opera House. Every day, the most talented artists in the city take the stage for theatre, dance, music and of course, world-class opera performances, so be sure to book your tickets in advance.

If you like, you can also join a tour to learn a little about the building’s history. Best of all, you’ll score some of the best views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge while exploring the area. 

A ride on the iconic Manly Ferry is another great way to take in the glistening harbour. The 30-minute ferry ride is enjoyed daily by locals and visitors, connecting Sydney — departing from Circular Quay — with the beachside bliss and sandy coves of Manly Beach.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge 

It’s clear that the harbour is the jewel in Sydney’s crown, and the best way to see it in all of its glory is from above. BridgeClimb Sydney is a breathtaking experience, and it’s even better at twilight, where you can watch the sun dip in the horizon.

The climb takes just over three hours, though you can choose a shorter tour if you’re fidgety, or not-so-keen on heights.

Soak Up The Art Scene 

Keen on an arty afternoon? Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA). Inside the Art Deco building, you’ll find cutting-edge art displays in paint, photography and film form.

We highly recommend their gift store, filled with beautiful coffee table books, unique accessories and one-of-a-kind artefacts.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is a comfortable 20-minute stroll away in The Domain, providing an endless program of exhibitions and events for art lovers. One of the largest art galleries in Australia, prepare to spend several hours roaming the halls. 

140 George Street, The Rocks 

Art Gallery Road, Sydney

Shop Sydney’s Historic Arcades 

A day in the city would not be complete without shopping at the Queen Victoria Building. The QVB is a heritage landmark and has had many lives before becoming the shopping mecca it is today. High-street flagships Anna Thomas, Camilla and Elka Collective share real estate with exclusive designer labels, and the vintage shopfronts are juxtaposed with contemporary interiors.

The Strand Arcade is another favourite, packed with Australian-made designs and local artisan businesses from Acler and Aesop to Koko Black and Le Creuset. 

Get Your Culture Fix

Sydney is home to live entertainment and is lucky to get some of the biggest acts and theatre productions to perform. Score tickets to a musical at Sydney Lyric or the Capitol Theatre.

The Sydney Opera House hosts musicals, dance performances, comedy and talks throughout the year within its iconic sails, and the Sydney Theatre Company always has an amazing line-up of stage shows.

See the City from the Water

Sure, you’ve probably boated across the harbour, driven over it, walked around it or even to the top of it, but have you ever kayaked in it? Put it on the list! It’ll make you appreciate life and this gorgeous city even more – and burn a few cheeky calories.

We recommend signing up for an Ozpaddle Sydney kayak tour, to make the most of your day on the water. Setting off from Andrew Boy Charlton Pool, owner and guide Sophie will take you paddling across the harbour, exploring the many hidden coves in the area. 

Andrew Boy Charlton Pool, 1 Mrs. Macquaries Road, The Domain, Sydney

Swing by The Zoo 

A trip to Taronga is a Sydney rite of passage providing more than top-notch animal sightings. If you’re coming from the city, we recommend catching the ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga for some of the best views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. You’ll be able to visit with animals from all over the world including Australian natives. 

Bradley Head’s Road, Mosman 

Loved our guide to the best things to do in Sydney and looking for some foodie inspo to fuel your exploring? We’ve got it all, from the best restaurants and coffee spots to late-night wine bars.