Sydney Travel Guide: The best things to see, shop for, and pack
Planning a trip to Sydney? From the best things to see in Sydney to when to go and what to pack, this guide will walk you through all the Sydney travel basics.
With a mix of sun, sea, and city life, a trip to Sydney offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re watching the sun set over Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, strolling along coastal paths from Bondi to Coogee, or exploring artistic neighborhoods and local watering holes, Sydney offers a perfect mix of urban energy and natural beauty. Below, we’ve compiled our favorite Sydney travel tips and a list of the best things to do in Sydney.
Sydney travel basics
Currency: The currency used in Sydney is the Australian dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Sydney, but it’s helpful to have some cash on hand as well.
Best way to get around: Sydney is a sprawling city, and if you want to hit all the iconic sites and visit the best beaches, a car or bus is a must. When you travel with us, we’ll make getting around Sydney easy by taking you to all of the must-see spots via a private motor coach. “In my opinion, the biggest benefit of traveling with others is pre-arranged transportation,” said traveler Nancy after joining our Australia for Solo Travelers: Melbourne, Queensland Coast & Sydney tour. “Getting to destinations on time with so little hassle was such a pleasure.” When you travel to Sydney with us, we’ll take care of the logistics for you. Want to set out and explore the downtown area on your own for a bit during free time? Staffer Elana shared her favorite way to get from point A to point B: “By walking! You’ll see the city as you go.”
Phrases to know:
“Good on ya!” - A friendly way to say “well done” or “good for you”
“No worries” - “You’re welcome” or “it’s all good”
“Arvo” - Aussie shorthand for “afternoon”
“Brekkie” - This is the Aussie way to say “breakfast”—something locals in Sydney take seriously. “My favorite dishes always involved avocado toast or halloumi in some way,” said staffer Greer after visiting Sydney. “Even simple acai bowls at the beach were incredible!” Beyond breakfast, the city has a top-notch brunch culture, and you’ll find fresh seafood, meat pies, and a food scene that blends global flavors with fresh local ingredients on every Sydney trip.
When is the best time to visit Sydney?
Sydney is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your travel style. Just keep in mind that Australia’s seasons are opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere, so when it’s winter here, it’ll be summer in Sydney. So, if you love warm weather and beach days, Australia’s summer season is ideal. If you prefer cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and cultural events, Australia’s winter may be your perfect fit.
Learn more in our guide to the best time to visit Australia →
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere (December-February)
Our winter is the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, and Sydney’s summer brings warm temperatures, long days, and classic beach weather. It’s the best time for coastal walks, harbor cruises, and beach time at Bondi or Manly. When you join a tour of Sydney, expect a lively atmosphere, busier attractions, and peak travel energy. Fun fact: Sydney has more than 100 beaches, including the famous Bondi Beach!
Winter in the Southern Hemisphere (June-August)
Winter in Sydney is mild and comfortable, with cooler days that are ideal for sightseeing. You’ll enjoy fewer crowds at top attractions and a vibrant events calendar, including Vivid Sydney (a winter attraction worth traveling for), when the city sparkles with art, music, and colorful light installations.
The shoulder seasons (March-May & September-November)
Sydney’s shoulder seasons offer the best of both worlds: pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and great conditions to seek out the best sights in Sydney. It’s just another reason why we love Off-Peak Travel.
Discover Sydney in every season
What to see in Sydney
There are so many great things to see in Sydney, a city that blends natural beauty with energetic urban life in a way that feels refreshingly easygoing. When you visit with us, we’ll show you all of the best sights in Sydney, take you to off-the-beaten-path local favorites, and give you plenty of time to explore on your own. (Your Tour Director can even give you insider tips about how to spend your free time in Australia’s biggest city!) Here are just a few of the best places to visit in Sydney on tour.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
The sweeping Sydney Harbour Bridge spans the harbor and is one of the top things to see in Sydney. (Don’t worry—you can’t miss it!) Join our Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise excursion on our tours of Sydney to enjoy a breathtaking view of the bridge from the water as you nosh on local bites. Or, if you’re feeling brave, use your free time in Sydney to take a guided tour to the top of the arch—it’s 440 feet high at its peak!
Sydney Opera House
One of the most iconic places in Sydney needs no introduction. “The Sydney Harbour and Opera House left me speechless,” said traveler Dianné after seeing it on our Highlights of Australia: The Great Barrier Reef to Sydney tour. You’ll get a tour of the famous performance venue and learn all about its fascinating history, and you can even catch a show during your free time. “I surprisingly got a chance to attend a concert in the Sydney Opera House,” said traveler Kim on our Highlights of Australia & New Zealand tour.
Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is Sydney’s most famous stretch of sand, known for its golden shoreline, surf culture, and relaxed vibe. “Walk from Coogee to Bondi Beach!” said staffer Chloe. The scenic coastal walk is a favorite—and a great way to experience Sydney’s beach lifestyle. “My favorite part was all the different beaches,” said traveler Gailynn of our Highlights of Australia: The Great Barrier Reef to Sydney tour.
The Rocks neighborhood
The Rocks is one of Sydney’s oldest neighborhoods, and is full of history, lively restaurants, and live music. You’ll visit with your group on your trip to Sydney, but it’s also an excellent area to pass some free time on tour. The oldest bar in the city, Fortune of War, is located here—it’s a great spot to grab a beer and relax.
Royal Botanic Gardens
This lush oasis in the city center is one of the best places in Sydney to visit during your free time. Entry to the gardens is free, and a stroll here is as educational as it is immersive. “What I love most about this park is its efforts to spread knowledge about Aboriginal traditions in harvesting and preparing bush foods—plus, how those foods are integrated into modern cuisine,” said staffer Thea when highlighting the differences between Melbourne vs. Sydney.
Bronte Baths
Set along Sydney’s stunning coastline, the Bronte Baths are a beloved ocean pool carved into the rocks. Popular with locals, it’s a refreshing stop along the coastal walk and a quieter alternative to busier beaches—perfect for soaking up Sydney’s outdoor culture during a free afternoon on our Australia & New Zealand tour.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Just north of the city, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park showcases a completely different side of Sydney. Think bushland trails, lookout points, and Aboriginal rock art. Join the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Walk & Lunch excursion offered on our Sydney tours to learn about the nature and heritage of the park on a tour with park experts.
The pub (That’s right—any pub!)
Sydney’s pub culture is a key part of local life. From historic watering holes to lively waterfront venues, pubs are where Aussies gather to unwind. Grab a drink (beer is the national beverage of choice, but you’ll find fantastic wines and well-crafted cocktails throughout the city), enjoy casual fare, and soak in the friendly atmosphere—it’s one of the best ways to experience the city.
Souvenirs to buy in Sydney
Take home a meaningful reminder of your time Down Under with souvenirs that are distinctly Australian. These top souvenirs to get in Sydney will bring back lasting memories of your adventure.
Anything opal
Australia is home to the majority of the world’s opals, making this gemstone a classic Sydney souvenir. You’ll have a chance to see stunning examples—and grab a timeless, easy-to-pack keepsake—when you visit the National Opal Collection on your tour of Sydney.
Vegemite
This yeast spread gets mixed reviews, but it’s an Aussie staple worth trying. It has a strong, salty umami flavor, and you’ll find it slathered on toast at breakfast tables across the country, often paired with butter. “The trick is to just take a teeny bit,” said staffer Jamie.
Tim Tams
Vegemite not your speed? Take home a pack of Tim Tam cookies instead! While it’s true that you can find these Aussie-born chocolate-covered cookies back home, half the fun is spotting flavors you can only find in Australia. “[There are] so many flavors to try, and they will melt in your mouth—just scrumptious!” said traveler Cynthia after snagging some on our Highlights of Australia: The Great Barrier Reef to Sydney tour.
Akubra hat
The Akubra hat is an iconic symbol of Australian life, famously worn in the Outback. Durable, practical, and unmistakably Aussie, it’s a unique souvenir that blends style with function—and makes a great conversation starter back home.
Aboriginal art
Authentic Aboriginal art is a meaningful souvenir that reflects Australia’s oldest living culture. Look for ethically sourced pieces that tell a story through traditional patterns, colors, and symbols. “Seek out Aboriginal dot paintings, which often show abstract interpretations of natural scenery or narratives,” recommended photographer Jimmy in his Australian travel story.
Prepare for your trip to Sydney
What to pack for a trip to Sydney
During your trip to Australia, you’ll visit lots of different regions with varied climates—everything from the dusty, hot Outback to more temperate cities like Melbourne. Luckily, packing for Sydney doesn’t need to be complicated. Focus on versatile essentials and leave room to shop along the way. Take traveler Carol’s word for it: “A bit of advice (from experience) to future travelers, DON’T OVERPACK,” she shared after returning from our Australia & New Zealand tour. “There are plenty of opportunities to buy things while on tour (and you will). Your luggage will thank you.” Keep it simple with these essentials.
Layers
The weather in Sydney varies throughout the day, so pack light layers you can mix and match. A light jacket or cardigan will keep you comfortable as you go from a cool morning along the harbor to an afternoon sipping a beachside beer. “Packing was challenging because of [the] different weather,” said traveler Jill after visiting Sydney on our Highlights of Australia & New Zealand tour. “Cold weather gear is necessary. Formal or dressy [clothes] are not as important.”
Good walking shoes
You’ll do a lot of walking in Sydney—from city streets to coastal trails—so comfortable, durable shoes are a must. Sneakers or supportive sandals will keep your feet happy while exploring the best places to visit in Sydney.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from Australia’s bright sun with a pair of stylish sunglasses. They’re a travel essential for beach days, ferry rides, and afternoons of wandering the city streets in comfort and style.
Universal power adapter
Australia uses a Type I plug, so bring a universal adapter to keep your devices charged. It’s essential for cameras, phones, and other gadgets you’ll rely on during your tour of Sydney.
Sunscreen
The Australian sun is strong year-round, so sunscreen is essential. Choose a reef-safe, broad-spectrum formula to help protect marine life while protecting your skin—or pick one up locally once you arrive. Australian pharmacies offer excellent formulas.
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Traveler photos from Australia
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