Are you dreaming of a trip Down Under? Our team of travel experts put together their tips on the best things to do in Sydney, including some of our favorite free-time activities. Get all their amazing Sydney travel tips, and see Sydney’s top attractions on our guided tours of Australia.
Currency: Australian dollars
Best way to get around: “Walking!” says our staffer Elana. “You’ll see the city as you go.”
Phrase to know: “Good on ya.” That’s how you can tell your fellow travelers you’re glad to have them with you on tour!
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SYDNEY
Sydney is known for its great weather, especially during the shoulder season (that’s September–November and March–May). Along with the pleasant temps, you’ll also find fewer crowds at the most popular sights—just two reasons we love traveling in the off-season!
WHAT TO PACK FOR 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. But when you’re packing for a trip to Sydney, keep it simple with these essentials:
- Layers
- Good walking shoes
- Sunglasses (and sunscreen!)
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SYDNEY
From iconic architecture to great cultural events, there are so many great things to see in Sydney. Here are just a few of the best places to visit in Sydney on tour.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Take a dinner cruise to get the best views of this iconic spot. If you’re really brave, you can climb to the top of the bridge with a guide, too!
Sydney Opera House
You’ll get a tour of the famous performance venue and learn all about its fascinating history—and you can catch a show during your free time.
Bondi Beach
“Walk from Coogee to Bondi Beach!” says our staffer Chloe. “This is a super popular walk, so beautiful.”
The Rocks neighborhood
Enjoy everything from live music to great restaurants in this happening Sydney neighborhood. The oldest bar in the city, War Time, is located here—it’s a great spot to grab a beer and relax.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Entry to the gardens is free, so it’s great for a long stroll, picnic, or just a quick visit to check out the view.
THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN SYDNEY
Sydney is a multicultural city with tons of great restaurants and bars to visit. Here are just a few of our staffer Chloe’s favorite places to go and things to eat in Sydney:
Grounds of Alexandria
It’s a beautiful place to eat or grab a cup of coffee and a pastry.
Bar Luca
Giant burgers, so yummy!
Night Noodle Markets
A large outdoor food market where you can find all kinds of great eats.
KUSUKA
Called the first Indonesian fusion café in Sydney. I would travel back to Sydney just for their food and drink creations. This place is a tiny gem.
Frankie's Pizza
Craft beer, cider, and classic pizza served in a rock 'n' roll hotspot with pinball machines.
Menya Noodle Bar
Amazing ramen, great value, super amazing experience. All the Asian food in Sydney is delicious!
THINGS TO DO IN SYDNEY DURING FREE TIME
From hitting the beach to seeing some of Australia’s cutest wildlife up close, get our traveler Lexi’s top things to do in Sydney.
Take in the culture at one (or more) of Sydney’s museums, like the Art Gallery of NSW.
Snack on Emperor’s Puffs while you explore Chinatown—they’re a perfectly sweet treat after a shopping trip.
See it all atop Sydney Tower and unwind with a cocktail at 360 Bar & Dining.
Want more things to do in Sydney during free time? Check out all of Lexi’s recommendations!
SOUVENIRS TO BUY IN SYDNEY
Take home a memory of your trip Down Under with one of our top souvenirs to get in Sydney.
Anything opal. You’ll have a chance to pick up Australia’s signature gem on a visit the National Opal Collection during your tour of Sydney.
Vegemite. This yeasted spread gets a bad rap, but it’s worth a taste, says our staffer Jamie. “The trick is to just take a teeny bit. You can also add a little to stews and soups for flavor!”
Akubra hat. That’s the famous cap worn by Aussies in the Outback.
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