Things to do in Sydney

Joe

From Joe's guidebook

Darling Harbour & The Goods Line: Family-friendly attractions and interactive installations. Darling Harbour is a central highlight of Vivid Sydney 2025, running from May 23 to June 14, and is renowned for its immersive light installations, interactive art, and family-friendly experiences. This year’s theme, “Dream”, transforms the waterfront into a surreal dreamscape of light, music, and culture. ***Key highlights: Starscape Tunnel, Entwine, Drawn in Light, Fireplaces & Samsung Space to Dream.

Mon

From Mon's guidebook

Darling Harbour – 5 mins walk Enjoy waterfront dining, entertainment, and family attractions like: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo Madame Tussauds Harbourside Shopping Centre Insider Tip: Go in the evening for beautiful sunset views and dinner by the water.

Negar

From Negar's guidebook

It’s one of Sydney’s most vibrant and scenic areas, perfect for a relaxing day or night out. You’ll find beautiful waterfront views, a wide variety of restaurants and bars, and attractions like the SEA LIFE Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, and the Australian National Maritime Museum. There are also lovely walks along the water, live entertainment, and fireworks on Saturday nights – all just a short distance from the city. It’s a great way to experience Sydney’s harbour lifestyle without the crowds of Circular Quay.

James

From James's guidebook

A must-visit while you're in Sydney, the Opera House is just across the harbour. Take a guided tour, enjoy a world-class performance, or simply admire the architectural brilliance from one of the nearby waterfront restaurants. It’s a cultural icon and a bucket-list-worthy experience.

Emma

From Emma's guidebook

Taking a ferry in Sydney isn’t just transportation, it’s an experience! From Circular Quay, hop on the ferry to Manly. It’s about 30 minutes of scenic cruising past the Opera House and out into the ocean heads. Manly itself is a cool beach town – when you arrive, walk down the Corso (pedestrian street) to the ocean beach. You can swim, surf, or have lunch at a cafe. The ferry ride offers million-dollar views for just a few dollars fare. Try to sit outside on the ferry for the breeze and best photos

Jack

From Jack's guidebook

A 20 minute ferry from Manly Wharf to Circular Quay takes you right to the doorstep of the Opera House. Almost more impressive is the ferry ride itself, beautiful views of the city and the harbour.

Markus

From Markus's guidebook

**Quick Guide to Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bridge Climb** **Sydney Harbour Bridge:** - An iconic steel arch bridge in Sydney, Australia. - Connects the CBD to the North Shore. - Offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. **Bridge Climb:** - A unique way to experience the bridge and city views. - Takes about 3.5 hours, including preparation. - Climbers are equipped with safety gear and guided. - Advance booking recommended. - No personal cameras allowed; professional photos available. **Tips:** - Check weather and dress comfortably. - Basic fitness level required. - Adhere to age and health guidelines.

Emma

From Emma's guidebook

You can’t come to Sydney and not see the Harbour Bridge! One free activity is to walk across the bridge on the pedestrian pathway – you’ll get amazing views of the Opera House and harbour. It takes about 15-20 minutes to walk across. If you’re feeling adventurous (and don’t mind heights and a splurge), consider the BridgeClimb experience to go up the arch – it’s unforgettable

Felicity

From Felicity's guidebook

You don't need to pay to enjoy the Harbour bridge. Take a walk over it and marvel at this incredible structure and take in the incredible views on the way. Taking a stroll across the pedestrian walkway still offers those iconic views of the Opera House, The Rocks and Fort Denison. It will take about 15 minutes if you don’t stop for pics, but obviously, you should—so factor in about 20 minutes one way.

James

From James's guidebook

Taronga Zoo is a highly recommended destination for visitors to Mosman and the greater Sydney area. Here are several reasons why it's worth a visit: Wildlife Diversity: Taronga Zoo is home to a diverse range of wildlife species from Australia and around the world. Visitors can encounter iconic Australian animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and wombats, as well as exotic species including elephants, giraffes, and tigers. Conservation Efforts: The zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats. Visitors can learn about these initiatives and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of wildlife conservation. Educational Opportunities: Taronga Zoo offers educational programs and interactive experiences designed to engage visitors of all ages. From guided tours to animal encounters, visitors can learn about animal behavior, conservation challenges, and the importance of biodiversity. Scenic Location: Situated on the shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the harbor. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas while exploring the zoo's exhibits and attractions. Family-Friendly Activities: Taronga Zoo provides a range of family-friendly activities and facilities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and animal shows. It's an ideal destination for families looking to spend a fun and educational day together.

Ollie

From Ollie's guidebook

It's beautifully laid out, the paths are wide and meandering, and – most importantly – the place is full of animals. Really interesting ones too: along with the lions and tigers and bears (oh my!) there are impossibly cute new young elephants, chimps and giraffes, as well as Taronga classics (pygmy hippos, the komodo dragon, koalas, platypi, Andean condors) and many exotic creatures you may not be immediately familiar with. We don't want to play favourites, but if Malaysia's noble bear-cat is binturong, we don't want to be binturight. Taronga is also the most fun way possible to have your conscience pricked about the parlous state of the planet for many of our co-inhabitants. For an example of a sobering statistic: right this minute, you almost certainly have more Facebook friends than there are wild Sumatran Tigers. As that little factlet suggests, the zoo is also making a song and dance about its conservation work as well as its education, research and breeding programmes, so you can spend freely on site knowing that your money is going towards funding worthwhile causes. That stuffed penguin you bought for your nephew might be making the difference between the survival or the extinction of the Corroboree frog. Make a day of it and take in the shows (especially the bird and seal performances) as well as the feeding times, which are available at the website, in order to see the beasts at their most lively. It's worthwhile getting a combined ferry/skyway/zoo ticket if you're coming from south of the bridge: the trip across the Harbour is an always-welcome reminder of just how beautiful our city is, and you get to arrive at the zoo entrance via the Sky Safari cable car – looking down on the elephants and chimps as you go.

Jen & Steve

From Jen & Steve's guidebook

World-famous for its wildlife and stunning harbor views, Taronga Zoo is a must-visit. You can see kangaroos, koalas, and other Australian animals while enjoying breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour. A short distance drive from Barefoot at Mosman Bay or you can even walk there ! If you have time after visiting the zoo you can head to Athol Hall Lawn a peaceful location near Taronga Zoo, great for picnic.

Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties

From Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties's guidebook

The Sydney Cricket Ground is a sports stadium in Moore Park. It is used for Test, One Day International and Twenty20 cricket, as well as Australian rules football, rugby league football, rugby union, association football as well as the occasional concert. https://www.scgt.nsw.gov.au/sydney-cricket-ground/

Alex

From Alex's guidebook

World famous Sydney Cricket Ground and Allianz Stadium, home to many sports and teams: AFL - Sydney Swans NRL - home to Roosters and Tigers Soccer - home to Sydney FC Rugby - home to Waratahs Cricket - NSW Blues If there is a game on during your stay let me know, I may be able to provide members passes!

Darren And Ralph

From Darren And Ralph's guidebook

Sports stadium in Sydney, Australia. It is used for Test cricket, One Day International cricket, Twenty20 cricket and Australian rules football, as well as some rugby league football and rugby union matches. It is the home ground for the New South Wales Blues cricket team, the Sydney Sixers of the Big Bash League and the Sydney Swans Australian Football League club.

Dan

From Dan's guidebook

🏮 Welcome to Sydney’s Chinatown 🌟 Located in the heart of the city near Haymarket and a short walk from Darling Harbour, Sydney’s Chinatown is a vibrant cultural hub bursting with flavor, color, and energy. It's the largest Chinatown in Australia and a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the city's Asian heritage and culinary treasures. 🇨🇳 What to Expect: 🍜 Incredible Food Scene From classic Cantonese dim sum and spicy Sichuan noodles to Korean BBQ, Thai street food, Japanese ramen, and modern Asian fusion—Chinatown is a foodie’s paradise. Try legendary spots like Golden Century, Mamak, or the buzzing food courts at Dixon House and Eating World. 🛍️ Shops & Markets Wander through stores selling Asian groceries, herbal medicines, bubble tea, quirky gifts, and souvenirs. Don’t miss Paddy’s Market, just around the corner—perfect for bargain shopping, fashion, and snacks. 🌸 Cultural Festivals Chinatown comes alive during events like Lunar New Year and the Night Noodle Markets, with lion dances, lanterns, street food, and fireworks lighting up the streets. 🏮 Atmosphere & Architecture Red gates, hanging lanterns, and traditional Chinese motifs line Dixon Street, creating a charming and authentic vibe. It's a blend of old-world charm and modern-day hustle. 🎨 Art & History Keep an eye out for public artworks and sculptures throughout the area. Chinatown also reflects the deep history of Chinese migration and community in Sydney, going back to the 1800s. 🕰️ Best Time to Visit Chinatown is buzzing day and night, but evenings are especially lively with street food, late-night eateries, and glowing lights. Weekends and festival seasons add an extra spark!

Negar

From Negar's guidebook

I highly recommend checking out Sydney’s Chinatown in Haymarket for an unforgettable experience during your stay! As a local host, I love this place for its electric vibe and incredible mix of Asian flavors—think mouthwatering dim sum, sizzling Korean BBQ, and bustling street food stalls. It’s a cultural gem with the iconic Chinatown Gate and historic Paddy’s Markets, perfect for soaking up Sydney’s diverse heritage. Whether you’re catching the vibrant Lunar New Year festival or just exploring the lively streets, it’s a foodie and culture lover’s paradise.

Peter

From Peter's guidebook

Locate a bit further south from Sydney CBD, if you crave Asian flavours, Chinatown's food experiences are as authentic as they get. Held weekly on Friday evenings, the Chinatown Night Markets on Dixon Street are a taste of a bustling outdoor Asian food hall. The area around Pitt and Goulburn Streets is known as little Thai town, while Pitt and Liverpool Streets is nicknamed Korean town.

Allegro Stays

From Allegro Stays's guidebook

Recommending to visit University of Sydney even if you are not a student. Lots of nice spaces and historical architecture.

Huihui

From Huihui's guidebook

Don't miss the Quadrangle building on campus...we call it the Harry Potter building.

Mel

From Mel's guidebook

Just a 4min walk across Victoria Park to the beautiful grounds of Sydney University.

Ollie

From Ollie's guidebook

Established in 1871, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is the leading museum of art in New South Wales and Sydney, and one of Australia's foremost cultural institutions. It holds significant collections of Australian, European and Asian art, and presents nearly 40 exhibitions annually. Every Wednesday night it opens its doors until 10pm for the Art After Hours program; catch lectures, workshops, celebrity talks, film screenings – or check out the exhibitions. If you're hungry, check out Matt Moran's new restaurant Chiswick at the Gallery.

Troy

From Troy's guidebook

An easy walk from the apartment, the gallery has an extensive collection over 5 levels. There's a restaurant and a gift shop and free guided tours throughout the day. Also, on Wednesday nights they have Art After House with special events and performances. To see what's on, check out their website: http://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/

Helia

From Helia's guidebook

Explore five levels of art at one of Australia's most popular art museums, located within beautiful parklands overlooking Sydney Harbour, just 10 minutes walk from the city. See an extensive collection of Australian art, including one of the largest galleries of Aboriginal art in the country, alongside European masters, Asian treasures and leading local and international contemporary art. Enjoy refreshments in the award-winning restaurant or cafe, and pick up a unique gift from the Gallery Shop. Visit on a Wednesday evening until 10pm for Art After Hours and see a slice of Sydney culture with free celebrity talks, music, performances, films and special events.

Micky

From Micky's guidebook

For the best view of both the iconic sights of Sydney Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge combined in one - (my personal secret location) go to level 4, there's an outdoor terrace cafe that overlooks both of the sights, guaranteed no crowds for perfect view and instagram shot.

Tracy

From Tracy's guidebook

Sydney's leading gallery of contemporary art located overlooking Sydney Harbour. Hot tip: Best view is on the top floor cafe with views out to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It's closed on Tuesdays.

Shirley Yet Ling

From Shirley Yet Ling's guidebook

Apart from being at Circular Quay, the MCA Graze restaurant offers a grand seat view of the Harbour and the Opera House. This is probably the best kept secret in Sydney having excellent service and delicious food especially the Bouillabaisse.

Luxico

From Luxico's guidebook

The Australian Museum, the first public museum in Australia, houses extensive collections of natural science and cultural artefacts. Galleries are dedicated to natural history, dinosaurs, Indigenous Australians and Australia’s unique wildlife. The Indigenous Australians Gallery includes Menagerie, a contemporary sculpture exhibition. It features established and emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island artists who have produced exceptional sculptural works of various native animals. Open daily, from 9.30am to 5pm, the Australian Museum has behind-the-scenes tours and plenty of activities for children.

Alex

From Alex's guidebook

The Australian Museum has an international reputation in the fields of natural history and indigenous studies research, community programs and exhibitions. The museum was established in 1827 and is Australia's first museum, with unique and extensive collections of natural science and cultural artefacts.

Frances

From Frances's guidebook

Just around the corner from the building you live at, discover the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific at Australia's first museum in Sydney.

James

From James's guidebook

White Rabbit Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that showcases an impressive collection of 21st-century Chinese art. The gallery is housed in a beautifully converted former factory and offers free entry to visitors. With its thought-provoking exhibitions and tranquil tea house, it’s a cultural highlight in Chippendale.

Ollie

From Ollie's guidebook

Best private gallery in Sydney White Rabbit is a a state-of-the-art, four-floor temple to 21st century Chinese art hidden on a backstreet in Chippendale. Founder Judith Neilson created the self-funded non-profit gallery to house her epic collection of post-millennial Chinese art, and it opened to the public in 2009. The gallery also houses a gift-shop full of cheap, cheerful and colourful gifts, and a ground-floor tea house that also serves dumplings. Contemporary Chinese art is a hot commodity right now, and among the most fascinating in the world, says Paris Neilson, Judith's daughter and the collection's manager. "When you go to China and visit the artists' studios, they're the size of airplane hangers. They have access to materials like bronze and fibreglass and they can get workers to help. They have so much freedom to create whatever comes to mind." White Rabbit opened in August 2009, the culmination of an idea sparked ten years ago. Judith Neilson discovered the work of Wang Zhiyuan at a 1999 exhibition at Ray Hughes Gallery in Surry Hills and began a friendship with the Beijing-based artist. "Mum went and visited him in Beijing and was just amazed by the work she saw," Paris explains. "She bought a couple of works and came back raving." Judith's husband, Platinum Asset Management founder Kerr Neilson, urged her to buy more, and the issue of where to keep and display a collection arose. The Neilsons found an old knitting factory in Chippendale and set about a three-year, $10 million refurb. White Rabbit is now one of the largest collections of contemporary Chinese art in the world. "What we'd like to be is an additional cultural space in Sydney, in addition to the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the MCA," says Paris. "It's another activity that people can do in Sydney, and it's free."

Roslyn

From Roslyn's guidebook

Enjoy free entry to this state-of-the-art, four-floor gallery brings together 21st century Chinese art, with a rotation of four key exhibitions throughout the year. Founder Judith Neilson created the self-funded non-profit gallery to house her epic collection of post-millennial Chinese art. White Rabbit is known for putting on bold and sometimes confronting exhibitions. You also can enjoy a plate of dumplings at the tea room downstairs.

Ollie

From Ollie's guidebook

Located in the old Ultimo Power Station building adjacent to Darling Harbour, the Powerhouse Museum is the flagship venue of Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). Its unique and diverse collection spans science, technology, design and decorative arts, engineering, architecture, health and medicine, fashion and contemporary culture. With a strong focus on creativity and curiosity, a range of 12 permanent exhibitions at the Powerhouse is complemented by a changing program of temporary exhibitions and displays. There are regular tours and demonstrations, performances, workshops, forums and other special events held throughout the Museum.

Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties

From Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties's guidebook

With free entry for kids 16 years and under, Powerhouse Museum is the perfect family destination for exploring the interactive side of arts and science. https://maas.museum/powerhouse-museum/

Patricia

From Patricia's guidebook

Visit The Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo, one of Australia’s largest museums, focusing on arts, science, innovation, and design. Housed in the former Ultimo Power Station, the museum offers free daily entry. Conveniently, the Goods Line finishes at the museum, making it an easy addition to your Pyrmont visit. The museum has undergone a $500 million transformation into a world-class fashion and design hub. Additionally, the development of a new Powerhouse in Parramatta is the largest cultural infrastructure project in NSW since the Sydney Opera House.

James

From James's guidebook

Just a short walk from Glebe, the Sydney Fish Market is a seafood lover’s paradise. Indulge in fresh oysters, prawns, and sashimi straight from the source, or grab a takeaway feast to enjoy by the water.

Joe

From Joe's guidebook

Go early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid the crowds and experience the freshest seafood available. The market can get busy, especially on weekends, so if you're looking to take your time, it's best to arrive right when it opens. When you’re there, grab a seafood platter or try some freshly shucked oysters—they’re a must-try! Don’t forget to stroll around and explore the different stalls offering live seafood, sashimi, and prepared meals. If you're up for a bit of an adventure, consider going for a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the market’s history and how the fish gets from the ocean to your plate. Lastly, if you’re into cooking, check out the fishmongers selling fresh catch, so you can pick up some amazing seafood to take home and cook yourself!

Ollie

From Ollie's guidebook

This working fishing port – with many types of fishing vessels in Blackwattle Bay, wholesale and retail fish markets, shops, a variety of indoor and outdoor eateries, and picnic tables on an outdoor deck – is well worth the journey to Pyrmont. Get up early and catch the noisy wholesale fish auctions; they start at 5.30am, with tours for public starting at 6.40am. It’s the largest market of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and you won’t find more varieties of fish on sale anywhere outside Japan: it trades more than 100 species a day and over 1400 tonnes of fish a year. The Sydney Fish market is also the home of Sydney Seafood School which offers a wide range of classes in handling and cooking seafood (from $85-$155), some held by well-known local chefs. Behind the Scenes Tours are held every Mon, Wed, Thu and Fri (except Public Holidays and between Christmas and New Year). Bookings for these tours are essential. Adult: $35; child $10. SFM is the largest market of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and the third largest seafood market in terms of variety in the world. A working fish market, SFM sources product both nationally and internationally and trades over 13,500 tonnes of seafood annually - with up to one hundred sustainable seafood species traded every day and approximately 500 species traded annually.

Victoria

From Victoria's guidebook

This al fresco bar has unmatched views of the Opera House and the Harbor Bridge, creative cocktails, casual food, and the best place to enjoy a cold beer or bottle of champagne. It gets very busy and is almost beer garden vibes, very casual atmosphere with spectacular views.

Antonio

From Antonio's guidebook

Opera Bar in Sydney is a famous and iconic venue located right next to the Sydney Opera House, offering stunning views of Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Circular Quay. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially for enjoying a casual drink, meal, or coffee while soaking in one of the best views in Sydney.

Joyce

From Joyce's guidebook

The Highlight (Opera Bar): Located at the lower concourse of the Opera House. Tips: Time your visit for 1 hour before sunset. Watching the sky change colors behind the Harbour Bridge with a chilled Australian Verdelho or a local craft beer is the quintessential Sydney experience. It often features live music in the afternoons! The Gardens: After your drink, continue walking past the Opera House into the Royal Botanic Gardens for a peaceful stroll with non-stop harbour views.

Severine

From Severine's guidebook

The Bucket List is the ultimate casual chic beachside venue where guests can wine and dine mere metres from Bondi Beach.

Jet

From Jet's guidebook

Why not slip down & have a beavy or 2 at this quintessential Bondi Beach bar. Right on the beach with one of the best views in Bondi.

Sydney Dreams

From Sydney Dreams's guidebook

Tacos, burgers and quirky cocktails in a vibrant, colourful joint with outdoor beachfront seating.

Kate

From Kate's guidebook

Located at China Town - Good place for souvenir shopping You can get cheaper fruit and vegetable here too Open from Thursday to Sunday only

Moyna

From Moyna's guidebook

Take your trolley to get the best deals on fresh vegetables , fruit, etc. Wednesday to Sunday, 10am- 6 pm

Michael

From Michael's guidebook

Large, time-tested marketplace with an eclectic array of goods such as souvenirs, clothes & produce.

Ollie

From Ollie's guidebook

Laneway wine bar serving Modern Australian food. This quirky garden oasis in the heart of Surry Hills, offers over 30 meticulously selected wines by the glass and sophisticatd yet relaxed dining.

Senta

From Senta's guidebook

This delicious Surry Hills restaurant and bar has become a go-to for locals and visitors alike, with its sprawling location, rabbit warren of various areas (indoor and outdoor) and broad offering. You'll find a huge selection of nibbles, substantial meals, desserts (the brownie is an absolute must), and more cocktails than you'll know what to do with. Its specialty, needless to say, is wine – and lots of it. But there's also a range of cocktails and beers on tap, as well as main meals, picky plates and snacks, and private rooms for special functions.

Alex

From Alex's guidebook

Wine bar and restaurant with bohemian decor and art installations

Susan

From Susan's guidebook

Iconic Manly pub on The Corso directly across from the ocean. great any time of day for relaxed vibe pub drink or meal. half price meals on monday. ping pong thursday night. big tv screens for sports. great old style building with local historical photos on wall. it's a huge complex with various bars and eateries. Gin bar with balcony on top floor: Glasshouse.

Caroline

From Caroline's guidebook

Classic big Aussie pub with several bars - the front bar is good for families, the back sports bar to watch sports, and the rooftop bar for views overlooking Manly Beach.

Catherine

From Catherine's guidebook

This is a great hotel to watch football. Big screens . It can be noisy. I like the New York steak and pepper sauce. It also has good views from upstairs and it’s quieter.

Melanie

From Melanie's guidebook

One of Australia’s most iconic beaches — perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or enjoying the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk with stunning ocean views.

Victoria

From Victoria's guidebook

What better place to be silent, breath and connect than Bondi beach If you’ve not done meditation before or if you’re looking to further your meditation skills, why not take a Vedic Meditation class in Bondi. Meditation is all about learning how to connect with your own energy and Vedic meditation is the world’s easiest form.

Marie

From Marie's guidebook

Hi ∕guest first name∕, To get you even more excited about your trip, feel free to follow my list of things to do and places to eat! Close by you have Bobbys Cafe for a great brunch, Raw Bar for japanese on the way to the beach -on 180 Campbell Parade Macellaria- meats and burgers. You have plenty of options to eat in and around north bondi too. Hall St [ Main st ] where you can find plenty of restaurants, stores, and coffee shops - Bills is fanastic for a great brunch - just dont mind the wait on the weekends. BONDI Icebergs - You can enjoy the restaurant and spend a few hours there paying just.There is a natural pool, sauna, and restaurant there-the restaurant above at the end is the fancy one... amazing for sunset cocktails in the bar too...make sure you dress up! Also, it’s a postal card of BONDI so great to take some pics. BBQ Area in North Bondi - It’s amazing to chill out on the grass and watch the sunset. The infamous Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk - You must experience the coastal walk starting in the south of BONDI near BONDI Icebergs, ending at Coogee Beach [or as far as you care to walk]. walk past Marks Park/Mackenzies beach [which you can take dogs too and swim this summer 2023/24] Tamarama then Bronte....stop for a coffee before heading on to coogee. allow about 2-4 hours. Pubs: Beach road hotel, BONDI Hotel, Hotel Ravesis, Bikini Bar, BONDI Public bar, Salty´s Bondi. Notice the markets at the public school on the weekends... always nice to find some fresh produce,flowers or stuff...and by stuff - i mean to many to name ! Also if you enjoy exercise there is BONDI Outdoor gym near the BBQ Area in North BONDI, lots of Pilates and yogas studios...my favourite being The Well. BONDI Junction - Train station and Westfield Shopping Center has all your big brands and supermarkets too. The trains take you directly to the city and beyond from Bondi Junction. In the city of Sydney - You can go and visit the Opera House, Harbor Bridge, Sydney Tower (Has an amazing view of Sydney), Darling Harbor, The Rocks, King's Cross, Oxford St and Glenmore rd Paddingtion have some great fashion stores too! Enjoy !!

Natasha

From Natasha's guidebook

Catch the 333 Bus to Circular Quay and hop on the ferry to Manly, a gorgeous seaside village with the harbor on one side and the ocean beach on the other. Have lunch at one of the many restaurants there. The ferry ride itself is a superb way to see Sydney Harbor. Take your swimmers and enjoy a dip.

James

From James's guidebook

Manly is a highly recommended neighborhood, primarily due to its stunning beach and vibrant atmosphere. Here's why it's a top pick: Iconic Beach: Manly Beach is world-renowned for its golden sands, clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions. It offers visitors a quintessential Australian beach experience. Scenic Beauty: The surrounding coastal scenery is breathtaking, with picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby headlands. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets and invigorating coastal walks. Diverse Activities: Manly offers a diverse range of activities, including swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. The Corso, a bustling pedestrian street, is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering plenty of entertainment options. Cultural Hub: Beyond its natural beauty, Manly boasts a rich cultural scene with art galleries, theaters, and live music venues. The area also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, ensuring there's always something exciting happening. Accessible: Manly is easily accessible from Sydney's city center via a scenic ferry ride, adding to its appeal as a convenient yet idyllic getaway destination.

Joe

From Joe's guidebook

Get there early or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest crowds, especially on weekends. Manly Beach can get pretty packed, so if you're looking for a more relaxed experience, early mornings or evenings offer a peaceful vibe, perfect for a swim or a walk along the shore. The sunset views are stunning, so it’s a great time to grab a seat at one of the beachside cafes or restaurants. For a fun way to explore, try renting a bike or a scooter and cruise along the Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal Walk—it’s one of the most scenic walks in Sydney. If you're into surfing, Manly is known for great waves, so rent a board and hit the surf if you're feeling adventurous. Don’t miss out on the local fish and chips or a refreshing ice cream after a day at the beach—there are several fantastic places near the beach offering these!

Renée

From Renée's guidebook

(10 min walk): A short stroll from your apartment, Coogee Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a beachfront walk. Has a sea pool if you don't like waves. The calm waters make it perfect for families, while nearby cafés and kiosks provide all the essentials for a beach day. In May-September you can often see humpback whales on their annual migration journey and we often see dolphins in the early morning.

Angela

From Angela's guidebook

Coogee Beach is a family friendly beach with great change rooms next to the Lifeguards under the boardwalk. Main street is Coogee Bay Road with a range of food options and Woolworths supermarket at the top of the strip. Both ends of the beach feature free ocean pools, one is accessed from Dunningham Reserve at the North and the Coogee Surf Life Saving Club at the South end. There are also additional pools further along the coast if you follow the path past the playground to the South. The ladies pool is female adults & children only and there's also Wylie's Baths which has a paid entry.

Kim

From Kim's guidebook

Coogee is a delightful seaside destination for families, with a patrolled beach, swimming baths and a promenade with barbeque areas and playgrounds. Only 5 minutes walk from the property.

Victoria

From Victoria's guidebook

The best way to see Sydney is by boat cruising across the harbour. If you can't hire a boat, take a ferry from Rose Bay to Circular Quay or Circular Quay to Manly. Manly is the northern side's version of Bondi, with great beaches, walks, restaurants, and bars to explore. The ferry ride across the harbor is a truly stunning trip and a great day or half-day adventure.

Kingston

From Kingston's guidebook

Explore the world-famous Sydney Harbour - just minutes away. Stroll the foreshore for iconic views, or hop on a ferry for a scenic ride past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge

Brad

From Brad's guidebook

Foreshore walks or the botanic gardens. See icons like the harbour bridge, opera house or The Rocks Take the Ferry from Manly to Circular Quay. The 199 bus will get you to Manly and to get home again simply do the reverse or catch the B1 bus from Wynyard.

Joe

From Joe's guidebook

Take a leisurely walk along the Bronte to Bondi coastal walk—it’s less crowded than the Bondi to Coogee route and offers stunning views of the coastline, cliffs, and ocean. It’s a great way to take in the natural beauty of the area while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the more touristy spots. Bronte Beach is perfect for a more relaxed vibe, so if you want to swim, stick to the swimming area near the lifeguard flags for safety, as the waves can be a bit more manageable here compared to Bondi. After your swim or walk, treat yourself to some delicious food at Bronte Park—there are fantastic spots around the beach that serve great coffee, breakfast, and casual bites. The Bronte Green café and The Family Business café are popular options with great food and a chilled-out atmosphere. For a hidden gem, head towards the Bronte Gully and enjoy the quiet, natural beauty of the area—it’s a lovely, peaceful spot to relax after the beach.

Priscilla

From Priscilla's guidebook

Bronte Beach is one of the more family-friendly of Sydney’s Eastern Beaches, offering an ocean pool for lap swimming, surfing, rock pools, and a park with sea views. A strip of cafes serves up everything from fish and chips and burgers to poke bowls; standouts include Bogey Hole Cafe and Cafe Salina. If you are beach swimming, currents at Bronte can be tricky, so always swim between the red-and-yellow flags. The best way to walk here from the flat is walk to the cafe on the corner, turn right into Murray street and cross at the traffic crossing, keep going until you see a little track that goes through to the big park which has amazing views and leads to the beach. If the surf is too strong you can swim at the bogey hole on the very right of the beach which is protected, or the pool above that.

Chesterfield

From Chesterfield's guidebook

Bronte is another stop along the Bondi to Coogee walk – although for many, it's the final one. Easy to see why. Swimmers congregate towards the mellow and very photogenic Bronte Baths to the beach’s south. The surrounding parklands are just as popular, with plenty of natural shade to picnic beneath. On public holidays, large groups clamour for the public barbeques, but they’re reliably free throughout the week. Bronte’s also got the goods when it comes to surfing. The waves are considered some of the east’s best, and are surfed by groms and veterans alike. The rocky southern headland and vigorous swells create ideal surf conditions, but they come with a caveat: the waves usually break over a treacherous reef. A little known fact about Bronte: the local surf lifesaving club, founded in 1903, claims to be the first of its kind in the world.

James

From James's guidebook

Maroubra Beach is a hidden gem for surfers and beachgoers alike. Less crowded than Bondi, it offers pristine sand, powerful waves, and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a morning surf or a laid-back afternoon in the sun, this beach is ideal for those who love a more tranquil seaside experience.

G

From G's guidebook

Maroubra beach is known as a surf beach but it is also ideal for swimming with 3 distinct areas for swimming. the north end is a protected spot for a quick swim. Patrolled areas also are available in the centre and to the south. The southern spot also includes a protected pool ideal for very young children and there is also a thriving beach Volleyball scene at the southern end of Maroubra beach.

Li

From Li's guidebook

My favourite beach, as it's my local hood. Great for surfing, and there are two rock pools. One on the northern end, called Mc Mahons (about a 5min walk from the beach), and one on the southern end that is super shallow and great for kids or adults!!!! For those who are game, you can swim to Magic Point around the southern side, to visit a grey nurse shark nursery, though it may be disappearing... There is also a wreck of the Malabar ship around there too.

Allison & Matthew

From Allison & Matthew's guidebook

Sydney Olympic Park features a large sports and entertainment area, originally redeveloped for the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It is the perfect spot for a bike ride, run or walk. You'll be able to find so many active things to do including swimming (Aquatic centre), Tennis, Archery, Golf or hire a bike and ride around Bicentennial park. The stadiums, arenas and venues continue to be used for sporting, musical, and cultural events, including the Sydney Royal Easter Show, Sydney Festival and a number of world-class sporting fixtures. Some places that deserve a visit and are completely free activities are the Brickpit ring walk & explore Bicentennial Park.

Maria

From Maria's guidebook

For all the entertainment lovers, this is the place to be. Most of the major concerts, grand finals and exhibition etc takes place here. You can check all the upcoming events according to your arrival in Sydney at eventsydney.com.au

Marian

From Marian's guidebook

Home to the Sydney Olympics, the Sydney Olympic Park offers a range of entertainment for all, from sports to live bands.

Michael

From Michael's guidebook

Acting as a gateway to the Northern Beaches, Manly & Queenscliff boasts kilometres of uninterrupted oceanways, a national park teeming with endangered species and plenty of postcard-perfect cliff top views of the Sydney CBD.

Hendi

From Hendi's guidebook

Manly is about 10 minutes away and full of different restaurants, bars and a great beach. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals. Hugo’s is a must! Such beautiful sunsets there. Sunset Sabi is amazing sushi (if you can get a booking!) The Glasshouse and Greenhouse are great for a drink. There are some great beaches around Manly to explore and the walk from Manly to Shelly is a popular one, stop at The Boathouse for coffee.

Rachel

From Rachel's guidebook

Get the ferry over to see the harbour and have a drink in Manly

Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties

From Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties's guidebook

Surry Hills is an evolving area known for its stylish cultural and cafe scene. Terraced houses on Crown and Cleveland streets showcase hip coffee joints, fashion boutiques and global eateries. Trendy pubs, wine bars and galleries dot the area around Surry Hills Library, a community hub with a contemporary, sustainable design. Held once a month, Surry Hills Markets lure shoppers for snacks and vintage goods.

Tim

From Tim's guidebook

Aboutlife has a good range of organic produce both fresh and packaged.If you are after a quick meal, coffee, eat in or take out this is the store.

Emma

From Emma's guidebook

Organic health food store - they also have self serve breakfast/lunch/dinner

Skye

From Skye's guidebook

Live music, great food, hipsters as far as the eye can see - Newtown is where it's at in Sydney at night. Favourite haunts including the Newtown Social Club for local live bands, the Newtown Hotel for good food, and the Marlborough Hotel for rooftop cocktails. There’s also plenty of great vegan options, some of the best gelato in the world and cult favorite Black Star Pastry.

Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties

From Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties's guidebook

Newtown is a diverse, bohemian neighbourhood that bustles with activity day and night. Shoppers head to King Street’s indie bookshops and thrift stores. Hip bars and eateries with multicultural fare cater to locals and University of Sydney students. The Enmore Theatre hosts comedy revues and live music. Restored Victorian buildings and street art, including a mural of Martin Luther King, round out the scene.

Mark

From Mark's guidebook

Newtown is a funky bohemian neighbourhood with lots of small bars, restaurants, bookstores and cafes. If you're vegetarian or vegan, you will have your pick of meal options. Take a bus or train into Newtown. It won't take long and you will love it.

Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties

From Tracey McArdle Exclusive Properties's guidebook

Known for its heritage Victorian terraces with cast-iron lace detailing, Paddington is where you'll spot the latest trends in fashion, art, food and wine. Bustling Oxford Street is lined with fashion and shoe salons, as well as homeware stores, cafes and restaurants. Paddington Markets, held on Saturdays, are a Sydney institution with some of the city’s top designers starting out here. At the cusp of Glenmore Road, Five Ways is a hub of activity with the popular Royal Hotel, delis, grocers and cafes.

Mark

From Mark's guidebook

Paddington is a trendy neighbourhood with boutique stores, excellent pubs and a charming cafe and second-hand bookstore called Ampersand. Walk (20-30 minutes) or take the bus to this part of Sydney.

Paul

From Paul's guidebook

Walk the historic streets to see the Colonial terraces, great cafes and restaurants. Don't miss the Reservoir Garden on Oxford Street. The Saturday market at the church on Oxford Street.

Luxico

From Luxico's guidebook

The worlds most famous beach need no further introduction. All year around you’ll find fun things to do to keep yourself busy, from the coastal walk to Bronte, learn to surf classes, swim in the pool, visit Sculpture by the Sea, and a cheeky cocktail at the beautiful Bondi Icebergs. The Northern end of the beach is most family friendly.

Tracy

From Tracy's guidebook

Most visitors are keen to visit the famous Bondi Beach located south of the city. To get there, we suggest starting at Coogee Beach and taking a six-kilometre walk along the coast to finish at Bondi. It is a scenic walk where you pass several smaller beaches. It is appropriate for children and you may even bring a stroller but be prepared to occasionally need to carry it up and down some steps.

Atari

From Atari's guidebook

Take the gorgeous coastal walk between Bondi and Bronte beaches - spectacular in any weather. Cool off in the Pacific ocean, dip in Bronte's baths or freestyle with the pro's at Iceberg's pool.