You already know Sydney has a huge range of things to do.

So many, in fact, that it can get a little overwhelming – and pricey – to plan a trip with your friends. Say goodbye to your admin headache with our list of the best group activities in Sydney - that won't blow the weekend budget. Ready to dive into the Harbour City? Get the ball rolling by booking cheap flights to Sydney with Virgin Australia.

Show off your skills at the Sydney Dance Company

A group of dance students at Sydney Dance Company, facing a mirror as they learn choreography, with focused expressions and dynamic movements.

Have fun and get fit with your crew in one of Sydney Dance Company's stunning studios overlooking Sydney Harbour. No matter your experience level, you can take part in a range of open dance and fitness classes – from contemporary dance to theatre jazz and hip hop. The best part? Sydney Dance Company is located at The Wharf in Walsh Bay, an area filled with waterside restaurants, cafes and bars where you can undo all your hard work.

Cruise Sydney Harbour by boat

A vibrant shot of the Sydney Opera House set against a bright sunny day, with clear blue skies and the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour.

There's nothing quite as quintessentially Sydney as spending a day out on the water exploring the hidden bays of the harbour. Preferably surrounded by food, drinks and your favourite people, of course. Although it may seem extravagant, Sydney Harbour boat hire can be well priced per head if there's a group of you. And with many charters allowing guests to BYO food and drinks, it's possible to live a Champagne lifestyle on a lemonade budget – at least for an afternoon.

Reach new heights at Sky Zone Alexandria

Two people airborne on trampolines at Sky Zone Alexandria, enjoying a fun activity in a lively indoor environment.

When it rains in Sydney, some people scuttle into the nearest Westfield and spend the afternoon surrounded by damp, irritated strangers. Smart Sydneysiders know better. On the fringes of the inner city, Sky Zone Alexandria spells hours of indoor fun for kids and adults alike. Team up for a trampoline dodgeball tournament (trust us, it gets competitive), scale the heights of the indoor climbing centre, or relive memories of a simpler time on the huge trampoline floor. Afterwards, head next door to Rocks Brewing Co, a huge bar serving up tasty bites and craft beers brewed onsite.

Fight over a metre long pizza at Via Napoli

A freshly served Capricciosa pizza from the wood-fired oven at Via Napoli Sydney, featuring vibrant toppings and a golden crust.

Test your skills in Sydney's best Escape Rooms

A flat lay of detective tools and clues arranged on a wooden box at an escape room in Sydney, showcasing magnifying glasses, notes, and other intriguing items.

Get your brains in gear and work together (or just yell at each other for an hour) in one of Sydney's many escape rooms. A well-known option is Escapism at Darling Harbour, found within the Strike Bowling complex. For something a little different, try some of Sydney's unique escape rooms, from paranormal activity in Macquarie Park to prison break in the Rocks. Definitely not family friendly.

While away the day at barefoot bowls

A close-up of a player's feet standing next to lawn bowls on astro turf at a barefoot bowls venue in Sydney.

Nothing screams summer more than spending a balmy afternoon playing barefoot bowls with your mates. And Sydney has some stunning places to partake in this most Australian of pastimes. If you're in the Eastern Suburbs, don't miss the chance to visit Clovelly Bowling and Recreation Club, complete with barbeques, beers and panoramic Pacific views. Not to be outdone, the Inner West is home to a number of iconic venues which are accessible by train. Our pick is Petersham Bowling Club, specialising in craft beers and relaxed sunny days for groups of all sizes.

Long lunch at Sydney's best Yum Cha

Steamed baskets filled with prawn, vegetable, and siu mai dumplings at Yum Cha in Sydney, showcasing a variety of delicious dim sum.

A hangover cure like no other, get your pork bun fix at one of Sydney's best yum cha restaurants. Great for groups, Sky Phoenix has vast dining rooms in the CBD, Zetland and Parramatta, while Marigold is a popular Sunday haunt in the heart of Chinatown. If you're an indecisive bunch, pay a visit to the Sydney Fish Markets, where delicious dumplings await alongside more fresh feasting options.

 

Flights to Sydney

Now that you’ve learnt about the best activities that wont blow your budget, it's time to book that ticket. Virgin Australia offers direct flights to Sydney from major Australian cities, including:

Ready to book? We have everything for your trip