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Sydney is among the most visited destinations in Australia. The city lies among the confluence of land and sea. Top attractions in Sydney Australia offer things like gliding through the glittering harbors on the ferry, watching the white sails of the Sydney opera house, and getting mesmerized by the arch of the Harbor Bridge.
Back in 1788, it was at Sydney Cove where Sir Arthur Phillips paid a visit as commander of the First Fleet. Stories of Sydney are hidden throughout narrow, cobbled lanes and historic buildings of the Rocks. It has a history of Gadigal Aboriginal people who were the guardians of the land. The city offers guided tours through the museums sharing the history of the city.
The city of Sydney is multicultural and hence there is a variety of people and food. It is also a shopper’s paradise. The city has emerged from its history of being a convict settlement. Today Sydney oozes a spirit of adventure which epitomizes the things to do in the city. There are plenty of activities one can indulge in besides sightseeing in Sydney Australia. Here are must-visit places and things to do which must be on top of the bucket list.
Sydney Opera House
Get indulged in the picturesque view of the Sydney Opera house boasting its sails among the Sydney Harbor. It is not only the greatest icon in the world; it is a UNESCO world heritage site. There are activities around the Sydney opera house that add to the fund. Apart from sightseeing one can take photos while taking a harbor cruise, relax at any restaurant, take a stroll on the exterior of the Opera House, or get involved in an organized tour. Sydney Opera house is located in Port Jackson Sydney harbor. This marvel of engineering is situated on the east end of Sydney Harbor Bridge. The Opera house is named after Bennelong, one of the two aboriginals who served as a liaison between Australia’s first British Settlers and local people. The Sydney opera house was designed by Jorn Utzon and Peter Hall and it was opened to the public on 20th October 1973. The guided tour will take you through the history and behind-the-scenes of how this famous building was built.
Things to Do at Sydney Opera House
- Take a conducted tour of the world’s most iconic building
- Enjoy mouth-watering food and drinks to broaden the taste bud experience.
- Engage kids in child friendly tours and enjoy performances for kids
- Shop at exclusive souvenir stores to treat yourself with something special.
Address
Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How to Reach?
You can reach the Sydney Opera house by taking a walk from the city center. You can also reach it via train, bus or ferry to circular Quay from where the Opera house is just 5 to 10 min walking distance
Sydney Harbor Bridge
Nicknamed the “Coathanger”, the bridge was opened to the public on 19th March 1932. The architecture was designed under the guidance of John Bradfield, Ralph Freeman, and Thomas S Tait. Nicknamed the “Coathanger”, the bridge was opened in 1932 and primarily links Sydney with the suburbs. The bridge spans about 500 meters and is one of the biggest steel arch bridges in the world. Along the length, the bridge features four railroad tracks, a highway, and a pedestrian walk.
Things to do
- You can go for a drive-through, chug it through a train, or take a long shot from the nearest view.
- Indulge in a decent 135-meter summit which will provide a spectacular view of Sydney and you will appreciate one of the modern marvels of engineering
- Enjoy every moment of preparation during the pre-climb pep talk, safety gear and a photo on the summit.
- Hear fascinating about the history of the Sydney Harbor Bridge.
Address
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney NSW, Australia
Darling Harbor
Darling Harbor is one of the rare places for sightseeing in Sydney Australia which ticks all the destination boxes and provides a splendid waterside place to visit. The place is named after Lieutenant-General Ralph Darling who served as a governor of New South Wales from 1825 to 1831. Darling Harbor was previously known as Long Cove and generally referred to as Cockle Bay till 1826 when Governor Darling changed the name. Darling Harbor is an ideal place if you have kids and looking for a day off with them. Darling Harbor Sydney packs in a one-stop destination for Sydney attractions perfect for families. The venue hosts a ton of music concerts, art exhibitions, and film festivals at the Aware Theatre. An interesting fact about Darling Harbor is that it was formally opened by Elizabeth II on 4 May 1988. The Sydney Aquarium was the first attraction that opened, followed by a host of museums, shops, restaurants, hotels, etc. HASSELL delivered the urban design framework of Darling Harbor in association with NSW and Lendlease.
Things to do
- Visit Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Wild Life Sydney Zoo.
- Enjoy quality restaurant, trendy bars, night club and outdoor dining areas in King Street Wharf
- Enjoy the world’s largest Cinema Screen at IMAX, laser skirmish or tenpin bowling.
- Madame Tussad’s Musesum , outdoor events and exhibitions.
- Enjoy cruise which starts from the Harbor
Address
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How to reach
You can take a train to town hall station and exit south into Bathurst Street. Short downhill walk from Bathurst Street will lead to Darling Quarter, Tumbalong park and Sydney Visitor center.
Royal Botanical Garden Sydney
Sydney can feel like a concrete jungle with towering buildings and noise. But there is a place inside the city which provides a calm, soothing chillout place among nature. Royal Botanical Garden Sydney is a tranquil oasis that can help people relax amidst the lap of nature. And guess what? – it is free. The Royal Botanical Garden was established in 1816 and is the oldest garden and scientific institution in the country. In 1912 Palm house was completed as a new superstructure which was designed by Government Architect George McRae. There are outstanding collections of plants from across the globe and Australia. People looking for relaxation in nature can have the best time in their life. It offers one of the calmest and most serene places.
Things to do
- Take a tour to learn about Aboriginal culture
- Relax at the garden , catch up with friends and family.
- Visit the Calyx for shopping, food and other exciting events.
- Join a tour to hear the stories of Cadigal people.
Address
Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How to reach
It is easy to visit the garden by train. The nearest train station is Martin Place (T4-South Coast line). Saint James and Circular Quay (T2-Airport and Inner West and South Line) and T3 Bankstown Line. All these places are within walking distance of the garden.
The Rocks
History lovers must visit The Rocks in Sydney to discover colonial history. The Rocks are known for their reputation which is driven by atmospheric lanes which are lined with historic buildings. The Rocks are the birthplace of modern Sydney. The Rocks transformed from rowdy, raucous settlements filled by convicts, soldiers, and gangs to modern precincts. Often referred to as the city’s historic district, The Rocks is a fantastic place to stay for first-time visitors in Sydney. The Rocks are the right place to stay as all major attractions are within walking distance. The Rock was established shortly after the formation of the colony in 1788.
Things to do
- Visit Argyle , a set of six bars over two levels in one of the oldest building in The Rocks
- Appreciate art at Museum of Contemporary arts
- Experience local artists work at local galleries.
- Take The Rock Ghost tour to indulge in bone chilling haunted stories from the past.
- Roll up the picnic blanket at Dawes Point.
Address
107–109 George Street, The Rocks
How to reach
It is a 2-minute work from Circular Quay or 10 min walk from Wynyard train station. The main entrance to The Rocks is via George Street.
Sydney Tower Eye
Soaring above the Sydney skyline is the 309-meter-tall Sydney Tower Eye which keeps a watch over the city. It is one of the most popular landmarks aside from the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Zooming in on the city from the top of the tower is one of the best activities which tourists enjoy. Taking a walk through the alfresco glass door-viewing platform skywalk adds to the awe and splendour. The building has been designed by Donald Crone and Associates. The Sydney Tower eye was opened to the public 20 years after construction in 1981.
The express lifts whisk the visitors to the observation deck which is among the most popular activities for Sydney visitors. The observation decks at the top provide A SKYWALK which makes a perfect bird’s eye view of the city. One just can’t stop admiring the cynical view of the beautiful Sydney port and the city.
Things to do
- Choose among 1000 restaurants
- Visit the observation deck of the Sydney Tower eye
Address
Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How to reach
closest rail stations near the Sydney Tower eye are St James, Town Hall and Martin Place. St. James is just 2 mins walk from Sydney Tower.
Sydney Beaches
The city is also famous for its beaches. The surroundings of the harbor are decorated by sheltered coves adorned with calm water and sugary sand. A fifteen-minute drive from the city will take the visitors to the inviting beach and sand. Renowned Bondi Beach is just out of the city with a surfing destination, buzzing cafes, and the perfect vibe of a cosmopolitan city. Another perfect activity is to enjoy fantastic views while taking a coastal walk through the cliffs of Bondi towards Coogee Beach.
Things to do
- Visitors can enjoy swimming in the surf or netted ocean pool
- Surf enthusiasts can have their first surf lessons along the beachfront promenade shop
- You can take a stop at the beachside shops and restaurants to enjoy delicious cuisine
How to reach
Cronulla beach is the only beach accessible by train from the city. Manly beach, on the other side, is only a 30-minute ferry ride distance from Circular Quay.
Queen Victoria Building
The list of activities in Sydney is incomplete without a perfect shopping destination. Welcome to the Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building. The building has a dome that is surrounded by 20 smaller domes that decorate this ancient building. There are around 200 high-end stores placed in light-filled galleries. Some of the popular brands include RM Williams, Lorna Jane, Haigh’s chocolate, and various Aussie designers. There are a ton of homeware stores, gift stores, and galleries. The building was built in 1898 and designed by architect George McRae. It was first opened on 21 July 1898 when it replaced the original Sydney Markets.
Things to do
- Shop at Victoria’s basement
- Appreciate the Art of Dr Seuss Gallery
- Visit the Marble Bar
Address
455 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How to reach
Best way to reach Queen Victoria building will be to take a train from International Airport Station to Central station.
Barangaroo Reserve
An excellent example of an urban renewal project is the Barangaroo Reserve. The place is named after an influential female indigenous leader who was active at the time of European Colonisation. The area has been transformed from an unsighted container terminal and it was open to the public in 2015. The renewal project is an example of the commitment of the Australian government towards sustainability and improving the community’s well-being. The Barangaroo Reserve was opened on 22 August 2015 where features were reconstructed around the pre-1836 shoreline. PWP worked in association with Sydney specialist Johnson Pilton Walker to develop the place.
Barangaroo reserve offers 75000 reserve trees and shrubs with cycle trails. The place is spread through a 22 hectares area with a waterfront precinct offering a lovely space for strolling, and biking along the picturesque harbor.
Things to do
- Eat and drink at world-class dining
- Shop wellness products at laneways Barangaroos southern precinct
- Meander along the beautiful harbor for foreshore walk
Address
Hickson Rd, Barangaroo NSW 2000, Australia
How to reach
There are three bus routes (311, 324 and 325) which take visitors from Town Hall to Barangaroo reserve directly.
George Street
Looking for an old place with the bustle of a metropolitan? Pay a visit to George Street located at the heart of Sydney. It is one of the oldest streets in the country and has an interesting history. It was once a nameless track which was trodden by convicts looking to fetch water supplies. But today it is one of the vital arteries of the city traffic. The place is worth exploring and is a perfect destination for feeling the pulse of the city and window shopping through the shops. Architect George McRae was the city architect who designed George Street in 1898. Since 1788 the street has been the heart of Sydney.
Things to do
- Visit town hall Sydney
- Get to Martin place for memorials
- Circular Quay and The Rocks are at walking distance
Address
George StNew South Wales, Australia
How to reach
There are direct buses which can take you to George Street.
Hyde Park
Want to enjoy a day off with local friends at the heart of the city? Enjoy a picnic at Hyde Park on a bright sunny day. The park is named after Hyde Park London, Sydney Hyde Park is the oldest park. It is one of those destinations which offers lovely picnic spots, lawns, shady spots, picnic spots, flowers, a fountain, and trees that works as a welcoming landscape. Hyde Park was designed by sculptor Thomas Woolmer. The park was opened to the public on 2 November 1810.
Several monuments and memorials are embellishing the park. The Archibald Fountain 1932 is a representation of Australia’s alliance with France during WWI. Another Art Deco Anzac War Memorial 1934 in the southern corner of the park pays homage to the victims. Hyde Park is a place where local city workers kick off their shoes to have a peaceful lunch.
Things to do
- Visit Sandringham garden
- Pray at St Mary’s Cathedral
- Attend the Sydney Festival
Address
Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How to reach
Train number T1, T8 , T9 takes to Hyde park. Bus numbers 100, 320, 333, 396, 428, 461X are direct buses to Hyde Park.
New South Wales Art Gallery
A visit to any city is incomplete without its flavour of culture and art. Surrounded by a beautiful park, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the must-visit places. It is one of Sydney’s most distinguished art museums. The building is from 1885 and comes with spacious houses, light-filled galleries and Grand Courts. The art collection is excellent and ranges from European masters, and Asian artists to share an overview of global art from various ends. The gallery in the house boasts about having the largest collection of Aboriginals art in Australia.
The art gallery is undergoing transformation and expansion of the area. It is under the Sydney Modern Project which adds a brand new sustainable building, a public garden for art, a grand forecourt, and restoration of the historic building.
Things to do
- Visit New South Wales Police force wall of remembrance
- Visit Artexpress
- Spend time at public garden
Address
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
How to reach
Bus number 441 departs from York Street side of Queen Victoria Building. St James and Martin place trains are within 10 minutes walk.
FAQs
Best neighbourhoods to stay in Sydney are Sydney CBD and Darling Harbour. While visiting the city these two places are among the recommended places to stay for first time visitors.
Well, Sydney is a city which has warm and temperate weather all the year round. The hottest times in Sydney are December and January and attract a lot of school crowds coming for their holidays. Even the coldest month during June in Sydney has a pleasant weather of 14 degrees.
So, the best time to visit Sydney is from September through to November and during late May and February.
There are numerous travelling options in Sydney. There are many tour companies to help you get to visit places which are far from Sydney. Sydney is well connected with airport trains going into the city and light rail which will connect you from Central to Circular Quay. In addition, there are metro, busses across Sydney CBD and ferry service.
You can stay for 2 days or a week as per your liking. But a perfect stay at Sydney which will help you to see most places is 4 to 5 days.
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