Sydney on a tour that mixes beautiful landscapes, urban life and diverse gastronomy
Australia is a truly unique country, and it’s well worth making your dream of visiting it come true. And the gateway is naturally Sydney , which can easily win over any tourist, with its mix of bustling urban environment and unique integration with nature. A cosmopolitan city, yet relaxed and incredibly multicultural. There are countless options for activities to do in Sydney and its surroundings, such as cultural tours, gastronomic experiences and simply appreciating the city’s natural beauty. So, let’s take a look at a complete itinerary of what to do in Sydney. We start with the city’s most important monument, the Opera House ! One of the symbols of Australia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Sydney Opera House exerts a certain magnetism on the city. Opened in 1973, it was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and took 16 years to complete. Strategically located facing the bay, you can admire its bold structure from different angles. But of course, once in Sydney, it’s definitely worth seeing a show at the Opera House. The multicultural center hosts a variety of artistic shows, including ballets and orchestras. Even if you can’t make it, it’s worth walking there and seeing it up close, because it’s already an unmissable attraction in itself!
Vibrant Sydney Harbour
In fact, Sydney Harbour itself is one of the city’s biggest attractions. One of the most famous and picturesque bays in the world, it is also a hub for recreational and commercial activities, with a number of bars, restaurants and shops surrounding it. In addition to the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, a steel arch bridge that connects central Sydney to the northern shore, is another iconic symbol of the city and offers stunning views of the bay. In addition, Sydney Harbour is home to several islands, such as Cockatoo Island, Fort Denison Island and Shark Island. These islands offer historical sites, secluded beaches and hiking trails, making them popular destinations for locals and visitors alike.
This port is also a major hub for water activities. Locals and tourists alike can enjoy boat trips, sightseeing cruises, water sports such as sailing, kayaking and diving, and even swimming at the beaches around the bay. It is also worth noting that it is the venue for world-famous events such as the Sydney New Year’s Eve Fireworks, in which spectacular fireworks are launched from buildings, boats and the harbour bridge to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.
The historic The Rocks neighborhood
Nearby is The Rocks, a neighbourhood full of quaint little shops and bars, where modern Sydney began. Its colonial buildings have been preserved and, as a result, it is a popular tourist area with a rich historical heritage, colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The Rocks was established in 1788, shortly after the arrival of British colonists in Australia. The neighbourhood has a unique charm, with its cobblestone streets, winding alleys and stone houses, reminiscent of its colonial past. One of the neighbourhood’s main attractions is The Rocks Market, which takes place every weekend and offers a variety of artisanal products, souvenirs, clothing, jewellery and fresh food. It is also home to a number of fascinating museums, including the Australian National Maritime Museum, where visitors can learn about the country’s maritime history, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Sydney, which exhibits modern and contemporary art by local and international artists.
Speaking of museums, another must-see is the Art Gallery of New South Wales, in Sydney Harbour, and one of Australia’s leading art museums. In 2021, it turned 150 years old, and in 2022, a new expansion was inaugurated. So now there are two buildings connected by a public art garden: the neoclassical building from the 19th century, and the more modern building, with glass and several levels. Among the permanent exhibitions, for example, are the international and Australian collections of European Renaissance art from the 15th century. It’s worth visiting the website to check out the temporary exhibitions. Plus, admission is free!
Close to The Rocks is the center of Sydney, or rather, Downton, with several interesting streets, such as the busy George Street, which is home to shops and restaurants, as well as beautiful architecture. Pitt Street has a closed area for cars and several shopping centers, such as Westfield and The Strand Arcade. There is also the Queen Victoria Building, a shopping mall from 1898 with impressive architecture and decoration.
Manly Beach — the northern beaches
Once in Sydney, it is essential to take a boat trip and visit its beaches, since they are not in the city center but about 30 minutes away by car or boat. I highly recommend taking the ferry to Manly and enjoying the northern beaches. The journey to Manly Beach, one of the best-known beaches in the Sydney region, takes about 30 minutes and starts with an amazing view! Busy, it brings together all tribes, from volleyball players to families and surfers. In fact, it offers several activities for visitors, from sunbathing and swimming in the calm waters to practicing water sports such as surfing, diving and stand-up paddleboarding. The color of the water, the cleanliness of the beach, the organization and the silence are sure to impress any unsuspecting tourist. Also, take the opportunity to continue on to the small Shelly Beach, passing by rocket pools (rock pools, very common there). A tour that lasts all day (in summer), as you can walk along the boardwalk and the pedestrianized street and enjoy lunch overlooking the bay, such as at the Manly Pavillion restaurant (details below).
Bront Walk — from Cooge to Bondi Beach
Another must-do is the walk from Cooge to Bondi Beach, certainly one of the most famous beaches in Australia! You can drive or take a taxi to Cooge (about 15 minutes) and then walk the 6km between Bondi Beach and Cooge Beach. The route, called the Bronte Walk, is green and carbon-free. There are countless beaches, parks, residential areas and breathtaking views! You can reach Bondi Beach in no more than two hours, and then it’s time to relax, take a dip and then have a nice drink. With crystal-clear water, the surrounding area has great infrastructure, with restaurants, shops, ice cream shops and bars. For those who want to have lunch, North Bondi Fish has a relaxed atmosphere and excellent seafood. In addition, at one end are the Bondi public swimming pools, in the middle of the sea. A different view from what we are used to and sensational!
Watson Bay
The third thing I recommend doing near Sydney is the scenic Watson Bay, Australia’s oldest fishing village, which was founded in 1788. It’s accessible by ferry or car and has a pleasant climate, plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as beautiful beaches, of course. So, take a leisurely stroll along the coast and enjoy the scenery. From Watsons Bay, you can see Sydney Harbour and the cliffs to the north of the city. The trail leads to Hornby Lighthouse , the third oldest lighthouse in New South Wales that is still in operation. There are also several other beaches nearby, including Lady Bay Beach and Parsley Bay, which offer great swimming and picnicking spots. The iconic Watsons Bay Hotel is a popular beachfront spot with a vintage vibe.
Finally, the famous Kangaroos at Symbio Wildlife Park
And after a few days in Sydney, you might wonder: where are the kangaroos? After all, the country has about 50 million kangaroos of different species. Well, of course they are in zoos, like Taronga, or in the countryside. But if you want to see the animals roaming freely but safely, I suggest visiting Symbio Wildlife Park, which is a 1-hour drive from the city, where the animals are kept free in very large areas. Symbio Wildlife Park has been around since 1975 and has several exotic animals such as meerkats and cheetahs, as well as typical Australian animals, such as kangaroos and koalas. Finally, we have the chance to interact with them with great care and also feed them, so it is an activity for the whole family.The suggested accommodation is the elegant Park Hyatt Sydney, with a sublime and exclusive location on Sydney Harbour. With a privileged view of the Opera House and The Harbour Bridge, the five-star hotel opened in 1990, but underwent major renovations a few years ago. Built at the end of the Harbour, it makes guests feel like they are on a ship. Therefore, it is a welcoming hotel, with spacious rooms, a great restaurant, a swimming pool and a spa.
Sydney’s diverse cuisine
Sydney’s cuisine is diverse and has a strong multicultural influence. Fresh seafood is one of the region’s specialties, such as the famous Sydney oysters and the region’s giant prawns. Seafood is readily available in many restaurants throughout the city. Asian cuisine is also very popular in Sydney. There are a wide variety of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai and Korean restaurants. You can find everything from small street food joints to award-winning fine dining establishments.Another specialty in Sydney is Australian dishes, such as the famous meat pie, fish and chips and kangaroo steak. These dishes can be found in many local pubs and restaurants. For more details, check out the list below, separated by region, and enjoy this cosmopolitan city that welcomes tourists.
Restaurants in Sydney
Downtown
MuMu
A restaurant specializing in Southeast Asian cuisine in Downtown. Cool and creative, it has a great atmosphere and great food. The menu is inspired by chef Dan Hong and entrepreneur Justin Hemmes’ travels to Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Some of the options include fried shrimp with fish sauce and Cambodian chicken. The creative drinks menu is also a highlight.
Woolloomooloo
Otto Restaurant
Just a short walk from Manta, this friendly Italian restaurant blends classics with modern touches. Chef Richard Ptacnik’s menu is fresh, seasonal and produce-driven, with fresh pasta made daily in-house and local seafood grilled on the wood-fired grill. Plus, the atmosphere is cozy, with outdoor seating.
The Rocks
Grain
The bar at Four Seasons Sydney offers artisanal spirits, local craft beer, Australian and international wines, and classic cocktails. It’s definitely a great place to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat before dinner!
Quay
This signature restaurant is by Australian chef Peter Gilmore and has been on the list of the 50 best restaurants in the world. The view of the Opera House is truly sublime, and is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of Sydney. Chef Peter draws inspiration from nature and collaborates with local farmers, fishermen and producers to create his dishes. At Quay, there is only a tasting menu, which can be four, six or eight courses.
Manly
Manly PavilionYou’ll spot this restaurant as soon as you step off the ferry from Sydney to Mainly. With several spacious rooms, it’s more sophisticated and focuses on fresh seafood and local ingredients.
Bondi
North Bondi Fish
A restaurant in Bondi Beach, Sydney’s most famous beach and also the closest to the city center. Facing the sea and with a more relaxed atmosphere, it serves excellent seafood.
Watson Bay
Doyles
Fresh seafood by the beach in a family-run business that has been around for generations.