🌟 10 Best Things to Do in Sydney
(That’ll make you fall in love with the Harbour City)

Ah, Sydney. Land of sparkling harbours, world-famous beaches, and coffee so strong it could probably power the Opera House lights for a week. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or planning a full-blown Aussie adventure, there are a few experiences you just have to tick off the list.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Sydney from iconic sights to hidden treats
(and maybe a cocktail or two along the way).

1. Explore the Opera House & Dine at Opera Bar

You don't need a ticket to the opera to visit the Opera House, you can walk right in and take a selfie
on its sweeping granite steps, in fact it's one of the world's most photographed buildings, which is little wonder as it's listed as a UNESCO World heritage site. Make sure you take a tour inside to learn its history (yes, those sails have drama behind them), then wander down to Opera Bar tucked away underneath, right on the harbour overlooking the 'coat hanger' the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a dazzling view of the smiling Luna Park too. Order a spritz, watch the ferries go by, and pretend you’re living in a postcard.

2. Relax in the Royal Botanic Gardens

When the city buzz gets a little too much, the Botanic Gardens are waiting as your green sanctuary. Explore the winding paths, discover the rich array of flora and say hi to the cheeky Cockatoos and Ibis birds colloquially referred to as 'bin chickens'. Grab a shady spot with a perfect Opera House view, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the outdoor events hosted here too.

3. Enjoy the History of The Rocks

Cobblestone lanes, historic pubs, weekend markets… The Rocks is where Sydney’s colonial history meets modern cool and of course a few touristy shops that sell Aussie Ugg boots and souvenir trinkets. Grab a locally brewed craft beer in a heritage pub, pick up some Aussie-made craft goodies at the markets, or just enjoy people-watching while convincing yourself you’ll do the colonial ghost tour later (if you dare).

4. Enjoy the free Art Gallery of New South Wales

If your idea of “culture” usually involves Netflix, Sydney’s Art Gallery of NSW might surprise you. From classical works to thought-provoking contemporary exhibitions, it’s a feast for the eyes. Even better, it’s free to see! (Which means you’ll have more money to blow on cocktails later.)

5. Go Shopping in Pitt Street Mall & Strand Arcade

Pitt Street Mall is Sydney’s shopping mecca, with everything from big-name fashion brands to quirky boutiques tucked inside the arcades. The Strand Arcade circa 1891 has kept its old Sydney charm, where you can find high fashion, watchmakers and a must stop is Strand Hatters, the best place to buy an iconic Akubra among plenty of other well crafted styles. Even if you don’t buy anything, the people-watching here is top-tier and the building’s architecture and intricate tile work are absolutely stunning.

6. Walk the Promenade of Iconic Bondi Beach

Yes, Bondi is touristy. but yes, it’s worth it. Stroll the promenade, dip your toes in the surf, and watch the bronzed locals who seem genetically designed for beach life. If you’re feeling energetic, continue on along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, it’s one of the most beautiful seaside hikes you’ll ever do that inspired the world renown Sculptures by the Sea annual exhibition.

7. Sunset Cocktails & Dinner at Sydney Tower

Want to feel like you’re dining in the clouds? Head to the Sydney Tower (Centrepoint) for sunset cocktails followed by a revolving buffet dinner. Yes, the restaurant actually rotates, so you’ll get 360° views of the city without even leaving your seat. Perfect for lazy sightseers (or anyone who just wants dessert with a view).

8. Ferry to Manly from Circular Quay

Glide out from Circular Quay into a panorama of Sydney’s icons, take in the Opera House gleaming at your side, the Harbour Bridge towering above, with sails and seascapes stretching wide. Soon you’re cutting through shifting blues of greater Sydney harbour, past headlands, yachts, and hidden coves. In just half an hour, Manly awaits with its laid-back surf-town vibe. Stroll the Corso of cafés and shops toward the golden sweep of Manly Beach, breathe in the salty air, and wander coastal tracks that reveal secret coves and sweeping ocean views. Then take the trip back all sun-kissed and ready for a night out in the big smoke.

9. Catch a Show at the Opera House
(or Other local Theatres)

Sydney’s theatre scene is alive and kicking. From musicals and ballet to opera and drama, you’ll find performances at the Opera House and theatres like The Capitol in Haymarket or Lyric in Pyrmont next to Star Casino. Pro tip: even if you’re not an opera buff, seeing something inside the Opera House is an experience that stays with you forever.

10. Watch the Night Fireworks at Darling Harbour

If there’s one thing Sydney loves, it’s fireworks. (Seriously, they’ll find any excuse for them.) Every weekend, Darling Harbour lights up the night with a fireworks show. Grab some gelato, claim a good
spot by the water, and prepare to ooh and ahh like a kid again.

Okay, we can't resist A Few Extra Must-Dos!
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11. Shopping & High Tea at the Tea Room, QVB

Step back in time at the Queen Victoria Building (QVB), one of Sydney’s most stunning heritage buildings and shopping centres. Upstairs, you’ll find the elegant Tea Room, where high tea is served on silver stands with a side of old-world charm. Warning: after a few too many macarons, you might roll out instead of walk.

12. Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Walking over the Harbour Bridge is an inspired way to cross the harbour, it’s free, it’s iconic, and on a sunny day you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the Opera House, Circular Quay, and all the ferries zipping around below. From the CBD side, you can find the pedestrian access to the bridge stairs opposite the friendly Australian Heritage and Glenmore hotels on Cumberland St in The Rocks. The walk takes you over to Kirribilli and North Sydney, where you'll find more wonderful restaurants, cafés and pubs and the joys of Luna Park and North Sydney Olympic Pool.

Bonus: if you’re feeling brave (and cashed up), you can also book a BridgeClimb for a once-in-
a-lifetime view from the very top.

🏖️ Final Thoughts

Sydney has this magic combo of big city energy + laid-back beach vibes. One minute you’re sipping cocktails with a skyline view, the next you’re barefoot on Bondi sand. Whether you’re a culture vulture, foodie, history buff, or just here for the sun, this city has you covered.

So pack your sunnies, slap on the sunscreen (seriously, Aussie sun = no joke), and start exploring. Sydney’s waiting for you.. Sunset Cocktails & Dinner at Sydney Tower.

Click the youtube icon below to follow Maisy & Ken around town