Sydney Travel Guide: See, Do, Stay, and Save

Sydney dazzles with epic harbour views, golden beaches, world‑class dining, and a laid‑back outdoor vibe. From the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge to neighbourhood cafés and coastal walks, the city blends big‑ticket attractions with simple pleasures. We spent a week in Sydney and stayed at the Fullarton Hotel which was very nice and close to major attractions. What ever place you decide to stay at, we suggest you locate yourself in the city unless you are looking to visit attractions outside of Sydney. This Sydney travel guide covers must‑see highlights, smart budgets, practical transport tips, the best times to visit, and stellar day trips.

Our Sydney Travel Guide Top Things To See & Do

• Sydney Opera House.

Marvel at Jørn Utzon’s architectural masterpiece, one of the most recognisable buildings in the world. The Sydney Opera House offers guided tours that take you behind the scenes to explore its fascinating history and design. Catch a live performance or simply enjoy the stunning views from the forecourt and Bennelong Point, especially at sunrise or sunset when the harbour glows. This iconic venue is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. We took a guided tour which lasted for about 1 hour and is a great way to see this iconic structure. Aim for an early morning tour as it gets very busy with tourists.

• Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge, affectionately known as the “Coathanger,” is a feat of engineering and a symbol of the city. For the adventurous, the bridge climb provides a thrilling experience, offering 360° panoramic views of the harbour, Opera House, and skyline. Whether you choose a daytime climb or opt for the magical sunset or night experience, the views are breathtaking. It’s a memorable way to see Sydney from a unique perspective.

• The Rocks Historic Precinct

Step back in time in The Rocks, one of Sydney’s oldest neighbourhoods filled with cobblestone lanes and historic buildings. This historic precinct features heritage pubs, artisan shops, and vibrant weekend markets. Join a walking tour to learn about the area’s rich history, including First Nations stories and colonial heritage. The Rocks is a great place to discover local crafts, enjoy a meal, or simply soak in the atmosphere of Sydney’s past.

• Royal Botanic Garden & Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at the Royal Botanic Garden, a lush oasis featuring native flora and serene landscapes. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where you can relax at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a popular spot that offers breathtaking views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Pack a picnic to enjoy while watching the sunset, or explore the various themed gardens and walking paths throughout the grounds.

• Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

This is a must-do, particularly if you’re looking for a bit of exercise as well. This stunning coastal walk stretches 6 kilometres along clifftops, linking some of Sydney’s most famous beaches. Experience breathtaking ocean views, stop for a swim at Bronte Baths, and discover sculptural rock formations along the way. The walk is best enjoyed during the golden hour, allowing for picturesque photos and a memorable outdoor experience. Allow 2–3 hours to complete the walk, factoring in time for stops at cafes or beaches.

• Manly Beach via Ferry

Ride the ferry from Circular Quay for iconic harbour vistas, then enjoy surf, snorkel at Shelly Beach, and coastal paths. Great food spots and a chilled beach-town atmosphere.

• Darling Harbour & Barangaroo

Family-friendly precincts with museums, dining, waterfront promenades, and public art. Visit the aquarium, stroll Barangaroo Reserve, and catch evening light shows or fireworks on select weekends.

• Art Gallery of New South Wales & Sydney Modern

Explore Australian and international collections across two striking buildings. Free general admission, excellent Indigenous art, and superb harbour-facing architecture for design lovers.

• Taronga Zoo Sydney

Meet native and exotic animals with a world-class backdrop. Ride the cable car, attend keeper talks, and photograph giraffes with the Opera House beyond—great for families and photographers.

• Newtown & Surry Hills

Discover Sydney’s creative heart: street art, indie boutiques, and standout eateries. Ideal for coffee lovers, vintage hunters, and evening bar hopping away from tourist crowds.

Five Great Day Trips Outside Sydney

You’ll need to organise a tour or rent a car for these but certainly worthwhile if you have the time

• Blue Mountains

Hike to the Three Sisters, ride Scenic World’s skyway, chase waterfalls at Wentworth Falls, and explore Leura’s cafés. Cool climate and dramatic sandstone escarpments.

• Hunter Valley

NSW’s premier wine region. Join a tasting tour, sample Semillon and Shiraz, and pair with artisan cheese and chocolate. Hot air ballooning at dawn is a treat.

• Royal National Park

One of the world’s oldest national parks with coastal cliffs, figure‑eight pools (check tides), rainforest trails, and Wattamolla lagoon. Ideal for hiking, picnics, and kayaking.

• Port Stephens

Sandboard giant dunes, cruise for dolphins, and relax on uncrowded beaches. Great for snorkelling and seasonal whale watching. Base in Nelson Bay or Shoal Bay.

• Kiama & South Coast

See the Kiama Blowhole, seaside rock pools, and the scenic Grand Pacific Drive over Sea Cliff Bridge. Add Jamberoo or Minnamurra Rainforest for variety.

Where To Stay: In or Outside the CBD

• In the CBD/The Rocks
  • Best for: First‑time visitors, harbour views, walkability.
  • Neighbourhoods: The Rocks (heritage, boutique hotels), Circular Quay (iconic views), Darling Harbour (family‑friendly), Barangaroo (modern luxury).
• Outside the CBD
  • Surry Hills & Darlinghurst: Dining, bars, creative vibe, mid-range boutiques.
  • Newtown: Budget-friendly, artsy, excellent nightlife and food.
  • Bondi & Coogee: Beachside stays; great for surfers and coastal walkers.
  • Manly: Relaxed beach town feel, easy ferry commute.
  • North Sydney & Milsons Point: Quiet, scenic, quick hop to the city.
  • Parramatta: Value stays, multicultural dining, express trains to CBD.

Other Places To Stay In Sydney

Travel Costs (Typical, per person, AUD)

• Accommodation (per night)

• • Budget private/guesthouse: $90–$150
  • Mid-range hotel: 1$80–$300
  • Luxury/harbour-view: $400–$800+
• Food & Drink (per day)
  • Budget (casual eats/food courts): $25–$45
  • Mid-range (cafés + one sit‑down): $50–$90
  • Upscale (fine dining/cocktails): $120–$220+
• Activities
  • Ferry ride: $4–$9 each way (Opal off‑peak cheaper)
  • Museums/galleries: many free; specials $15–$35
  • Bridge Climb: $200–$400+ depending on time
  • Opera House tour: ~$–$49
• Transport (per day with Opal)
  • Inner-city cap often 1$6–$20 weekdays, $8.90 Sundays; airport surcharge extra.

Suggested Daily Budgets (AUD)

• Mid-Range: $180–$300
  • Decent hotel, mix of cafés and casual dining, a paid attraction daily, Opal transport, occasional ride-share.
• Luxury: $400–$900+
  • Premium hotel with views, fine dining, Bridge Climb or harbour cruise, spa, private tours, taxis/ride shares.

Money-Saving Tips

• Use an Opal card and travel off‑peak; Sundays have low daily caps.
• Take the public ferry to Manly instead of a pricey harbour cruise.
• Enjoy free attractions: beaches, coastal walks, Botanic Garden, most galleries/museums.
• BYO picnic for Mrs Macquarie’s Chair sunset.
• Eat like a local: food courts in Chinatown, spice hubs in Haymarket, bakeries for breakfast.
• Book major attractions online in advance for discounts.
• Consider multi‑attraction passes if you’ll visit several paid sites.
• Visit in shoulder seasons for lower hotel rates.

Best Time To Go

• Spring (Sep–Nov) and Autumn (Mar–May): Best weather, fewer crowds, good hotel prices.
• Summer (Dec–Feb): Beach season, lively events, higher prices; book early.
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild, cheaper stays, crisp hiking days in the Blue Mountains; bring layers.

How To Get Around

• Opal Card: Tap‑on/off for trains, light rail, buses, and ferries; daily/weekly caps help control costs.
• Ferries: Scenic and efficient for Manly, Taronga Zoo, and Parramatta.
• Trains/Light Rail: Fast across CBD, Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, and Parramatta corridor.
• Buses: Fill network gaps; use real‑time apps for planning.
• Walking/Cycling: Compact CBD and coastal paths; dedicated lanes expanding.
• Rideshare/Taxi: Handy late night or with luggage; airport surcharge applies.