Sydney is one of my favorite cities we’ve visited. It has both a cosmopolitan and beachy vibe that seems to focus on health and well being. We are lucky to have gone twice, and always make plans to return.
Everyone is incredibly nice and fit! Which isn’t surprising considering how many activities are available and mainly outdoors. We loved doing all the touristy things such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, but we also made sure to do as the locals would. Nick did a surfing lesson, hung out at the beach, dinner at the Quay and much more!
1. Sydney Opera House
The iconic Opera House is a must see. You can start with a walk through the Botantical Gardens and make your way to the Opera House before sunset. From there you can take photos on the steps or even buy tickets to see a show.
There are lots of restaurants and bars along side the Opera House where you can have drinks and food while enjoying the views. The seating is first come first serve, but don’t be shy and share a table with others.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
If you are active, take a run or walk across the bridge for amazing views of Sydney and the Opera House. Well worth it!
3. Aquarium
4. Taronga Zoo
This is by far the best zoo I’ve been to. To get here, you have to take a ferry from the Circular Quay (pronounced ‘Key’). Once you get there, you get to take a gondola ride to get to the zoo entrance. While on the ride, make sure to capture the views and elephant exhibit below on your camera.
I felt the zoo was nicely maintained with lots of animals to see. The most unique exhibit was the free roaming wallaby pen. You literally walk through with no fences to block you between the animals. Don’t worry, they are very friendly!
5. Darling Harbour
The Darling Harbour is an area for entertainment, food and drinks. This is a fun place to go to at night to have dinner and see local street performers.
6. Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is the most popular tourist beach in Sydney. We took a bus from the Circular Quay stop to get there. It took about an hour with traffic and stops. You can also take an uber if you want to save time.
The Bondi iceberg is a must see. There’s a concrete walking path you can take photos from. Nick wanted to experience the pool for himself, so he paid the $6.50 entry fee to take a dip in the water. He said it was very cold and salty from the ocean. You can also go into the Iceberg to have drinks/food.
7. Bondi to Coogee coastal walk
Further along the path past the Iceberg is the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. Here you will get many views of the beach, rocks and look-outs.
8. Sydney Museum
Everytime I visit a new city, I always like exploring their museums. This is a great way to learn about the city and history.
9. Royal Botanic Gardens
Take a nice peaceful stroll in the Gardens which will lead you to the Opera House.
10. Queen Victoria Building
Visit QVB for some nice architecture and shopping.
11. Manly Beach
Take a ferry to Manly Beach for some outdoor fun. We happened to be there for Australia Open for surfing. Nick took lessons surf lesson through Manly surf school.
12. Sydney Eye Tower
To get a birdseye view of Sydney, visit the tower located in the mall. For a quick and cheap meal, the food court has a lot of good options.
13. Sydney Fish Market
We love fresh seafood, so we made sure to visit the Sydney Fish Market. There are lots of stalls with tasty meals to choose from.
14. Luna Park
15. Hyde Park
For a leisurely stroll, visit Hyde Park.
There is so much to see and do in Sydney, so you definitely won’t be bored.
Cheers!
Salena
