Aerial drone view of Sydney City and Sydney Harbour showing Sydney Harbour Bridge and Lavender Bay in the late afternoon

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Sydney is one of the most breathtaking cities in the world, but where do you even start? Don’t worry – our ultimate guide has the best attractions you just can’t miss

Surrounded by glittering beaches, restaurants, and galleries, Sydney has earned its spot as one of Australia’s top destinations. You’ll find no shortage of activities and attractions to enjoy solo, with a loved one, or with the whole family.

Sydney has a little bit of everything, no matter your hobby or travel style. If you're all about the ultimate tourist attractions, you don’t get more iconic landmarks than the Sydney Harbour Bridge or Sydney Opera House. If you prefer quieter retreats, there are relaxing locations like Hyde Park and the Royal Botanic Garden. If you’re interested in exploring Sydney’s outdoor activities and attractions, there are no shortage of beaches such as Manly Beach or Bondi Beach. And if you’re more into the cultural scene, Sydney’s Art Gallery of New South Wales is just one of its top galleries.

It’s time to start planning your ultimate dream holiday! This guide covers 21 of Sydney’s top attractions to help craft the perfect Sydney itinerary for some truly unforgettable memories.

Top Sydney attractions

1. Sydney Opera House

A pink sunset at the Sydney Opera House, a multi venue performing arts centre at Sydney Harbour located in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 28 June 2007.

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Address

Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW 2000 – Google Maps

Opening hours

8.45am to 5:00pm for tours

Cost of entry

Some areas are free to enter. House tours cost $45 for adults, $25 for children.

When people think of famous tourist attractions in Sydney, the Opera House always comes to mind. The Sydney Opera House, located in the heart of Sydney at Circular Quay on Sydney Harbour, is not only an iconic Sydney landmark worth seeing, but it’s also a famed performing arts centre that hosts masterful local and global talent.

The venue offers several types of performances to satisfy any artistic passion, including live music, opera, musicals, plays, comedy shows, talks and more. Sydney Opera House hosts the legendary Sydney Symphony Orchestra alongside studios, theatres, and playhouses. It’s also featured classics like Hamlet and Othello alongside popular bands like The Cure and Massive Attack. If you’re not in the mood for a show, the Opera House has a great atmosphere to kick back and enjoy the view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

There are also restaurants, cafes and bars to whet your appetite and give you ample opportunity to take in this famous Sydney view. Consider Sydney Opera House when you want to experience breathtaking performances or spend quality time with your family.

While you can walk around the exterior of the Opera House and enter the lobby of the Opera House for free to admire the view, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to watch a performance or book into a tour to explore more.

The Sydney Opera House is a brief 10-minute walk from Circular Quay Station.
 

Sydney Opera House experiences to book

 

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks of Sydney, during sunrise

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Address

Sydney Hbr Brg, Sydney, NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7 for the pedestrian walkway

Cost of entry

Free for the pedestrian walkway

The only Sydney attractions more iconic than the Sydney Opera House is the dashing Sydney Harbour Bridge. At 503 metres long and almost 134 metres tall, it’s a sight you have to see to believe. 

This bridge is famous for being one of the longest single-arch bridges in the world. It also has a breathtaking view, allowing you to see the Opera House, harbour, and endless ocean. Many visitors love to do the famous BridgeClimb, a feat where you walk up the bridge’s legendary arch. The journey takes roughly three to four hours to complete, combining exercise with one of the best views in the world.

If you’re visiting for the first time and itching for iconic photos of Sydney, mark the Sydney Harbour Bridge as top of the list on your Sydney bucket list. If you visit in the early morning, you'll enjoy one of the best sunrises in Sydney. However, the evening boasts a stunning sunset, too – so there’s never a bad time of day to visit!

For those who want to experience one of the best free things to do in Sydney, take the 10-minute walk from Milsons Point Wharf – walk up the hill to the stairs for access to the walkway to the bridge. The other end of the bridge is accessible from The Rocks, with stair access available from Cumberland Street.

Another great option for epic views from the Sydney Harbour Bridge is to head to the Pylon Lookout, and if you want to take in the Harbour Bridge in all its glory, we recommend cruising around the harbour, or having a picnic at one of the Harbour Bridge lookouts, like Mrs Macquarie's Chair, Blues Point, Cremorne Point or Observatory Hill.
 

Sydney Harbour experiences to book

 

3. Bondi Beach

Bondi Icebergs, located on the south end of Bondi Beach, during summer.

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Address

Bondi Beach, NSW 2026 - Google Maps

Opening hours

All day – lifeguards patrol from 6am to 8pm in summer

Cost of entry

Free

Lazy, lapping waves and golden sands make Bondi Beach a picturesque location in Sydney’s eastern suburbs and one of Sydney’s most vibrant attractions. Whether you want to enjoy some downtime at the beach catch a wave, grab a meal, wander along the promenade, shop in boutiques or exercise at one of Sydney’s most iconic locations, Bondi Beach has it all.

At roughly 1km long, this beach holds far more than meets the eye. It’s a fantastic spot to walk along the coast, particularly the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, famously one of Sydney’s best walks, and there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes to unwind at if soaking in the atmosphere is more your thing. For those visiting on the weekend, the Bondi Markets are a must and one of the best things to do in Sydney.

Those looking to exercise at the iconic location can do laps in the Icebergs Ocean Pool, a public ocean pool with a spectacular view. It even holds the distinction of being the most photographed pool in the world. Just remember to bring high-quality sunscreen and a hat – there’s plenty of sun, even in the winter!

Annual festivals and seasonal events add even more flavour to your trip – so make sure to check when the best time to visit Sydney is to maximise your trip. The Bondi Open Air Cinema, which usually takes place in summer, shows old and new films against the iconic backdrop, while Sculpture by the Sea, which usually takes place in October, is one of the most unique things you can do in the area. 

Bondi Beach is 9km from the Sydney Central Business District (CBD), will typically take 30 minutes by car, rideshare, or taxi or 45 minutes by public transport.
 

Bondi Beach experiences to book

 

4. The Rocks

Heritage buildings on George Street, The Rocks, one of the oldest and busiest shopping streets in Sydney and Australia.

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Address

The Rocks, NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7, specific shops or markets will have unique hours

Cost of entry

Free

History buffs will be hard-pressed to find a better Sydney attraction than The Rocks. This historic neighbourhood is filled to the brim with heritage architecture, fascinating museums and galleries, as well as delicious street food, fancy restaurants, and charming pubs.

The Rocks is where you go when you want a little adventure. You can wander the streets, visit Observatory Hill for epic harbour views, or make you way to walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge. If you need a place to start, Cadman’s Cottage is a fascinating heritage site that used to be a water police station. You can also go on a ghost tour and learn about famous haunted locations.

If you want to walk off your meal and enjoy the local art scene, The Rocks is overflowing with art galleries and boutiques. It boasts the Museum of Contemporary Art as well as jewellery and fashion stores. This neighbourhood is excellent for family outings or a quiet solo exploration

The Rocks are incredibly easy to find. They’re just seven-minute walk from Circular Quay, or you can also reach the neighbourhood by taxi or ferry.
 

The Rocks experiences to book

 

5. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Scenic view of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney, Australia with the lush green vegetation

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Address

Mrs Macquarie’s Rd, Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

Daily from 7am to sunset

Cost of entry

Free (with the exception of special events)

Walking through nature’s lush trees and flowers is a great way to take a break from Sydney’s hustle and bustle. The Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney’s CBD is a tranquil and beautiful attraction, and provides a peaceful, beautiful getaway when you need to escape city life. It’s within walking distance from the Opera House and Circular Quay.

The Royal Botanic Gardens was founded in 1816 and stands proud today as one of the most famous gardens in the world. This heritage-listed site boasts 30 hectares of plants, flowers, and trees. A simple walk through this garden will expose you to sections such as the elegant Palace Rose Garden, the regal Bennelong Precinct.

If you’re considering buying a souvenir or two or want to enjoy a snack in serenity, the Palm Grove Centre is home to gift shops, cafes, and restaurants.  Visit this beautiful location to enjoy a relaxing picnic or reacquaint yourself with nature – and make sure to head to Harbour View Lawn for one of the most spectacular views of Sydney.

The Royal Botanic Garden is within walking distance from Martin Place and St James Stations, but is closest Circular Quay Station, so it’s well worth doing in the same day as the Sydney Opera House.

 

6. Sydney Tower Eye

View on Pyrmont Bridge, Sydney Tower Eye, and CBD from Darling Harbour

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Address

Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

10am to 7pm, with extended hours over summer

Cost of entry

$26.40 for adults for General Admission

Want to feel like you could touch the sky while seeing almost all of Sydney? The Sydney Tower Eye is one of the most popular Sydney attractions for being one of the tallest observation structures in the world at 309 metres tall.

Standing at the top of this spectacular tower will give you a 360-degree view of Sydney, and you’ll easily be able see the entire city and spot multiple landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge. On a clear day, you could even glimpse the Blue Mountain!

The Sydney Tower Eye offers some fun and engaging activities if you want more than a pretty view. Purchase their virtual reality ticket and enjoy ‘flying’ over the city to see it in a new light or take in the views on Sydney’s highest outdoor adventure, the SKYWALK tour. This spot is ideal if you want to take your children on an educational trip or to truly see how beautiful Sydney is.

The Sydney Tower Eye is easy to find since it’s right in the middle of the Sydney CBD and is an eight-minute walk from Town Hall Station. 
 

Sydney Tower Eye experiences to book:

 

7. Art Gallery of New South Wales

Facade of the Art Gallery of New South Wales

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Address

Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

10am – 5pm, except Wednesdays when the gallery is open until 10pm

Cost of entry

Free, some exhibitions and events may be ticketed.

Who says you have to travel to the other side of the world to see the most stunning art galleries? The Art Gallery of New South Wales is a compelling showcase of humanity’s ingenuity in one beautiful package. It’s a roughly 15-minute walk from the city centre and is also close to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Hyde Park and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair – so it’s easy to see multiple Sydney attractions in one day!

Founded in 1871, this institution combines artistic inspiration with public education. You can visit fascinating exhibitions to learn more about the artistic process, history, or specific cultures. The Art Gallery of New South Wales hosts workshops, performances, and courses to help people expand their artistic horizons.

The gallery showcases exhibitions from international artists as well as local artists, with one of the most popular exhibitions being the Archibald. When you finish admiring brilliant paintings and sculptures, the gallery is home to several amenities. You can grab lunch at their cafe, browse their library, or even do research in their study room.

This gallery is enrichment, education, and inspiration all in one. It’s a prime choice for a solo journey, is a fantastic family-friend activity, or is a great attraction to visit for all travellers on a wet Sydney day.

Both St James and Martin Place stations are a 10-minute walk to the gallery. There are also several nearby bus routes and bike and car parking is available on Art Gallery Road, depending on your transport preference.

 

8. Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo Giraffes Sydney Australia, with Sydney city skyline in the background

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Address

Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088 - Google Maps

Opening hours

9:30am to 4:30pm

Cost of entry

Free for children under four. Adult tickets cost $45.90 each, and it’s $27 for children 4-15

A zoo is a spectacular way to spend your time in Sydney, especially if you’re passionate about nature and conservation. Taronga Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Sydney, offering a brilliant array of animals and flora, all against the backdrop of Sydney’s iconic harbour. It’s one of the best picks for families who want to snap photos and learn fun new facts about nature.

A few animal species you can see up close are lions, tigers, gorillas, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. You can also see smaller species such as lemurs, tree kangaroos, and chameleons. Each habitat is split into trails you can wander through, almost like stepping into another world.

For those visiting with children, consider taking them to one of their many fun and lively events. They offer concert series, light festivals, and seasonal events for the entire family to enjoy.

After you’re done learning fascinating details about the world you live in, you can top off your trip with their gift shop or clothing store. Whether you love nature or want to teach your children about animals, Taronga Zoo is waiting for you.

You can reach Taronga Zoo by bus, ferry or car. Catch the ferry from Circular Quay for the 12-minute trip across the harbour or jump on the 100 bus from the QVB to Mosman, which runs every 10 minutes. For those who have chosen to hire a car, all-day parking is available for $22.
 

Taronga Zoo experiences to book

 

9. Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour wharf and skyline, Sydney, Australia

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Address

Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7, restaurants, museums, and shops will have individual opening hours

Cost of entry

Free to wander the area

There’s good reason that Darling Harbour is one of Sydney’s most iconic tourist attractions (and one of the top areas to stay in Sydney). Not only is one of the best places to experience the sparkling harbour, but it offers so many things to do, see and eat that you may be there all day long.

Located in Sydney CBD along the waterfront, Darling Harbour is a popular attraction for families as it’s home to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madam Tussauds Sydney, the Australian National Maritime Museum, Darling Quarter Playground and IMAX Theatre. It also offers a diverse range of high-end and casual restaurants, is a great place for young adults (or the young at heart!) to go out at night and is one of the most convenient places to jump a harbour cruise. If you’re visiting Sydney on the weekend, make sure to head to Darling Harbour on a Saturday night for the 8:30pm fireworks! There are some weeks that the fireworks don’t go off, so make sure to double-check before venturing across.

For those travelling by public transport, Darling Harbour is within walking distance from Town Hall station, or you can catch the light rail from Central Station. There are also several bus routes that service the area, and those looking for a scenic journey are able to catch the ferry to King Street Wharf or Pyrmont Bay Wharf.
 

Darling Harbour experiences to book:

 

10. Queen Victoria Building

The Queen Victoria Building (or QVB) in Sydney city is a late nineteenth-century building designed by the architect George McRae in the central business district of Sydney. 

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Address

455 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

9am to 6pm on Monday – Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Thursday from 9am – 9pm and Sunday from 11am – 5pm

Cost of entry

Free

Are you craving a little history and window shopping at the same time? The Queen Victoria Building in Sydney’s CBD is an intriguing historic site that will spark your imagination (and empty your wallet).

The original purpose of this massive building was to operate as a marketplace in the late 1800s. Over the decades, people would repurpose the building into a library, a series of tea rooms, and a bazaar. It now stands tall as a shopping centre filled with art galleries, craft shops, and fashion stores. No matter your taste, you’re bound to find a souvenir you’re eager to take home.

But if all you want to do is wander, you’ll have a great time, too. The building itself is lovely, boasting a complex Romanesque Revival style (also known as Neo-Romanesque). Its bold colours and intricate detail make for some brilliant photo opportunities, so don’t forget to bring your best camera. History buffs and art fans will both well taken care of here.

The Queen Victoria Building is a two-minute walk from Town Hall Station, depending on the route and foot traffic. Since it’s nestled right in the middle of the Central Business District, there are also plenty of options for bus routes.

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11. Manly Beach

Aerial drone evening view of the Sydney suburb of Manly, a beach-side suburb of northern Sydney, in the state of New South Wales, Australia. Manly Harbour in the foreground, Manly Beach in the back.

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Address

Manly Beach, NSW 2095 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7

Cost of entry

Free

The quaintly named Manly Beach is a spacious beach on Sydney’s North Shore with plenty to do – whether it’s to sharpen your surfing skills, go for a swim and snorkel, or simply enjoy good food and a vibrant atmosphere.

A British Naval officer named this beach after being impressed by the indigenous population's ‘manly and confident’ behaviour. Nowadays, the beach and wharf are go-to destinations for tourists and locals alike.

The dynamic waves make this beach prime for surfing – you can even take surf classes at the Manly Surf School or Manly Surf Guide. If you’re a foodie and want to top off your visit with a tasty meal, the beach is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and bars, with the Manly Corso a great starting point to find your next meal. You’ll find a rich variety of cuisines including Arabic, Japanese, and Mediterranean and there are also some casual pubs, takeaway shops, and convenience stores.

Whether you’re a solo and looking to book a surf lesson, travelling with a group of friends and you’re looking for a vibrant place to get drinks, or want to enjoy a laid-back vacation with the kids, Manly Beach is up to the task. The easiest way to get to Manly from the CBD is to take the ferry from Circular Quay, which should take 30 minutes. Not only because it’s the fastest route, but it’s also one of the most picturesque ways of getting to Manly, with epic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park and the Opera House from the harbour. 
 

Manly experiences to book:

 

12. Hyde Park

Hyde Park, a quiet retreat in Sydney’s CBD

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Address

Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7

Cost of entry

Free

When it comes to mapping out your days in Sydney, there’s nothing wrong with wanting time for both activities and relaxation. Hyde Park is a Sydney attraction that gives you the best of both, offering a taste of the city while immersing you in rich, green nature.

This lovely park is nestled in the middle of Sydney’s CBD and one of the city’s top attractions for visitors. Famous for being the oldest public park in the country, it’s a regular draw for people who need a break from the grind. Singles, couples, and families flock to the park for easy-going walks and scenic picnics. 

However, if you want to fill up your camera roll with a bit more than greenery, Hyde Park is home to many monuments. You can start with the famous Archibald Memorial Fountain and make your way to the Anzac Memorial, and the Sandringham Memorial Garden and Fountain. Those looking for a unique experience in Hyde Park can play chess against strangers at the giant chess board, near St James Station.

Hyde Park is just the ticket when you want a relaxing place to unwind, take in some of Sydney’s history, and admire the scenery. Since the park is right in the middle of the CBD, you can easily access it from both St James and Museum train stations. 

 

13. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Family enjoying their visit to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Darling Harbour.

Credit: Jem Cresswell for DNSW

Address

1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

10am – 5pm on weekdays, 9:30am – 5pm on weekends

Cost of entry

From $35.70 - $51 for adults and $26.60 - $35 for children, with cheaper rates available for early online booking and Happy Hour entry

How familiar are you with the diversity of the ocean? Test your knowledge at the stunning SEA Life Sydney Aquarium, home to over 700 different marine species. Located in Darling Harbour, this aquarium will show you the grandeur of the deep blue sea while helping you brush up on your underwater trivia.

After just a few hours, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the world you live in. The aquarium lovingly recreates the animals’ natural habitat, giving you a glimpse of their life in the wild. You’ll see different species of shark, plenty of species of fish of all sizes and colours and meet the rescue dugong named Pig. You can also sign up for the first-of-its-kind Penguin Expedition Boat Ride, where a raft ride gets you up close and person to the colony of King and Gentoo Penguins.

If you’re extra curious how the aquarium works, you can even get behind-the-scenes tours to meet workers, learn about their conservation projects, and enjoy hands-on activities. 

The Sydney Aquarium is well-suited to families who want to teach their kids valuable lessons about wildlife or travellers who simply want to be in awe of the colours and vibrancy of the ocean. It’s also one of the best indoor activities to do in Sydney on a rainy day!
 

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium experience to book:

 

14. Chinatown

Chinatown gates on Dixon Street, Sydney.

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Address

82/84 Dixon St, Haymarket NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7

Cost of entry

Free

Australia is one of the most diverse countries in the world and nowhere is that clearer than Chinatown. Established in the 1920s, Sydney’s Chinatown is located in the CBD near Haymarket and Darling Harbour, and is home to delicious cuisine and beautiful crafts, and is a wonderful cultural attraction to visit in Sydney.

It’s almost hard to know where to start having fun in this lively neighbourhood, but the Chinatown Night Market on Fridays is a great experience in the area. The weekly night markets are where you can explore crafts and jewellery from local up-and-coming designers, taste various Asian street food, buy kitschy souvenirs and find unique products.  For those visiting Sydney at Lunar New Year, it’s a must to head down to Chinatown to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and festivities.

Chinatown is well-suited to foodies who want to try new dishes and travellers who enjoy expanding their cultural knowledge.

Located in the Central Business District, Chinatown is just a seven-minute walk from Central Station.

 

15. Luna Park

Family walking into Luna Park Sydney, Milsons Point

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Address

1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point NSW 2061 - Google Maps

Opening hours

10am – 2pm on Luna Lite Days (Mon – Thurs), 10am – 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 10am – 6pm on Sundays. The park is occasionally closed, so check ahead

Cost of entry

Free, but rides, experiences and special events require tickets. Unlimited Rides Pass start at $44 for adults and $34 for children

When’s the last time you let loose and had fun at an amusement park? Luna Park is on Sydney Harbour’s northern shore and is a (literally) shining example of Sydney’s commitment to a grand old time.

This amusement park has all the classics, including rollercoasters, family rides, and games. You can test your aim at the Lobster Pot or try your luck at Spin The Wheel. If you’ve been building muscle lately, Hi Striker will test your strength.

Their thrill rides aren’t for the faint of heart. Thrill-seekers will love Hair Raiser, their ride that lifts you 50 metres into the air and drops you at 80 miles per hour. If you prefer to indulge in whimsy instead, their Dream Circus will make you feel like you’re in another world.

Luna Park is a must-visit for families and couples who want to have a good time at a Sydney attraction with incredible views of the harbour.

Luna Park is easy to get to no matter your transport preference. Those with a rental car will be able to park on-site, with parking rates starting at $8, while those who prefer getting around Sydney on public transport can get the bus, train, or ferry to Milsons Point.

 

16. Sydney Fish Market

Seafood at famous Sydney Fish Market, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

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Address

Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd &, Bank St, Pyrmont NSW 2009 - Google Maps

Opening hours

7am to 4pm (except Christmas Day)

Cost of entry

Free – tours cost $60 for adults and $20 for children

While many of Sydney’s top attractions are about views and landmarks, The Sydney Fish Market is one attraction that’ll appeal to local culture buffs, seafood lovers, and tourists looking for something unique and tasty to do. Located on Sydney Harbour in Pyrmont, the Sydney Fish Markets is famous for the sheer variety of food on offer, including a gourmet deli, and cafes, greengrocer and – of course – seafood restaurants serving the catch of the day. You can also purchase some freshly caught fish to cook up a meal at your accommodation – if you're not sure how, make sure to book into the Sydney Seafood School.

If you’re looking to learn more about the market’s history and inner workings, consider signing up for a tour. You’ll get a firsthand look at their auction floor, tuna filleting, and skilled sushi prep. If you want to taste the freshest seafood in Sydney, this is one location you won’t want to miss. Just make sure to bring a jacket and gloves – fish markets are traditionally very cold to keep the food fresh.

Catch the Sydney Light Rail from The Star, Haymarket, or Central Station. You can also catch a number of buses that stop within five minutes of the market. 

 

17. Barangaroo

Barangaroo Reserve, in Sydney, Australia

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Address

Hickson Rd, Barangaroo, NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7, however individual restaurants and bars will have individual opening hours.

Cost of entry

Free 

Barangaroo is one of Sydney’s latest top attractions, found between Walsh Bay and Darling Harbour. Not just a harbourfront attraction bustling with restaurants and bars, it’s also home to Barangaroo Reserve, a beautiful, wide-open man-made park. Established in 2015, Barangaroo Reserves offers pickleball courts, a swimming spot at Marrinawi Cove, Aboriginal cultural tours, and plenty of open space to enjoy a picnic or a scenic walk. 

Along the wharf, you’re spoiled for choice for food – whether you’re after brunch, dinner, or a late-afternoon drink (or ice cream!), you won’t struggle to find something.

Barangaroo is just a three minute walk from Martin Place Station or a 10-minute walk from Darling Harbour.

 

18. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Scenic view of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge from Mrs Macquaries Chair.

Credit: Daniel Tran for DNSW

Address

Mrs Macquarie’s Rd, Sydney NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7

Cost of entry

Free

Want the perfect picture of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House? Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is a historical landmark and Sydney attraction that’ll deliver the goods.

Back in 1810, several convicts hand carved sandstone into a chair for Mrs Macquarie, the wife of a governor. According to historical records, she would regularly sit on this chair to watch ships sailing into the harbour. The woman was said to be a lover of the ocean, making her chair a representation of Australia’s natural beauty. 

If you peer closely at the chair, you can also read an old inscription that fleshes out the details of Mrs Macquarie’s Road. The road was built in 1813 and runs all the way to Mrs Macquarie’s Point to the Museum of Sydney. 

This landmark is a 20-minute walk from the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay station.

 

19. Featherdale Wildlife Park

Penguins at Featherdale Wildlife park

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Address

217 Kildare Rd, Doonside NSW 2767 - Google Maps

Opening hours

8am to pm

Cost of entry

From $37.80 for adults, $25.20 for children and $108 for a family pass(2 adults + 2 children)

Australian wildlife never fails to capture people’s hearts. The Featherdale Wildlife Park, located roughly 40 km from the Sydney CBD, is a lovely showcase of the country’s diverse array of fauna and flora and makes for a great family-friendly attraction.

This park showcases over 2,000 animals, including several endangered species. Just a few animals you’ll come across are quokkas, lorikeets, wallabies, koalas, and cassowaries. You can observe from a distance or get up close and personal with their Animal Encounters programme. Visitors can hand feed penguins or take photos with their friendly quokkas.

This vibrant and fascinating park is a great pick for couples who want a laid-back date or families with children.

One of the fastest ways to get to Featherdale Wildlife Park is by car, but if you don’t have a rental car, you’re still able to get there by public transport from the CBD by taking the T1 line to Blacktown Station and getting the 729 bus. Due to the distance from Sydney city, it’s best to plan for this to be a day trip. 
 

Featherdale Wildlife Park experiences to book

 

20. Chinese Garden of Friendship

Chinese Garden of Friendship in Sydney, Australia

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Address

Pier Street, Cnr Harbor St, Darling Harbor NSW 2000 - Google Maps

Opening hours

10am to 5pm (except Christmas Day and Good Friday)

Cost of entry

$12 for adults, $8 for children under 12, and $30 for a family (2 adults + 3 children)  

One of the highlights of Chinatown and Darling Harbour is the breathtaking Chinese Garden of Friendship. Filled with serene walkways and pods of koi fish, it’s the perfect conclusion to a long day of fun.

This garden was originally built as a symbolic gesture of friendship between Sydney and Guangzhou. Its design hearkens to the philosophy of feng shui, creating a harmony of colour and nature to soothe the senses. You can rest under willow trees, snap photos of sculptures, or listen to the flow of the water.

If you get hungry, swing by one of the nearby restaurants to enjoy some tea and pork buns, or wander around Darling Harbour, Haymarket or Chinatown for more options. Make sure to bring some extra change with you so you can take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Chinese Garden is a 15-minute walk from the Central Railway Station, or a three-minute walk from the waterfront of Darling Harbour.

 

21. Coogee Beach

Aerial view of Coogee ocean pool and Beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs

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Address

Coogee Beach, NSW 2034 - Google Maps

Opening hours

24/7

Cost of entry

Free

Coogee Beach is a great Sydney attraction for all kinds of travellers, no matter their holiday preferences. Due to its large size and abundance of shops and activities, just about every hobby and travel group will be accommodated.

Active visitors will have plenty of swimming and surfing spots, while walkers can undertake the trail from Coogee to Bondi, or from Coogee to Maroubra. If you prefer to rest, there’s more than enough room to relax on the beach, the grassy areas, or enjoy a coffee on the stairs overlooking the ocean. In fact, Coogee Beach has a reputation as being even more relaxed than Bondi Beach.

Want some fun activities to brag about? Book into a snorkelling tour at the neighbouring Gordon’s Bay to get an up-close view of the seabed. If you want to swim some laps, take a dip in Wylie’s Bath, one of Sydney’s most beautiful ocean pools, and if you simply want to enjoy some sundowners, you’ll have a few options of bars and restaurants to have a drink while enjoying the view. 

 

The 5 best Sydney tourist attractions

You’ll be glad to know Sydney is never lacking for classic tourist attractions, but some of the best Sydney tourist attractions include:

  • Sydney Opera House
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Darling Harbour
  • Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
  • Bondi BeacH

 

The 5 best Sydney attractions for families

When looking for a good family-friendly attraction, you need a location that leaves everyone happy. A variety of activities, kid-friendly meals, and plenty of shopping are good places to start. The best Sydney attractions for families include:

  • Luna Park
  • Taronga Zoo   
  • Darling Harbour
  • Bondi Beach
  • Sydney Tower Eye

 

The 5 best Sydney attractions for adults

Whether you’re looking for artistic enrichment, cultural exploration, a vibey place to get a drink, or just need somewhere mellow to unwind, Sydney is ready for you. Here are a few of the best Sydney attractions for adults:

  • Bondi Beach
  • Coogee Beach 
  • Art Gallery Of New South Wales 
  • Museum of Contemporary Art
  • King Street Wharf

 

The 5 most beautiful hidden places in Sydney

Not a fan of crowds? Or maybe you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten track when visiting Sydney? There are plenty of gorgeous (and quiet) wonders to enjoy in Sydney. Here are some of the most beautiful hidden places in Sydney:

  • Botany Bay Sculptures
  • Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden 
  • Gordon’s Bay
  • Paddington Reservoir Gardens 
  • Castle Rock Beach

 

Flights to Sydney

It’s time to see these stunning Sydney attractions with your own eyes. Virgin Australia offers direct flights to Sydney from major Australian cities, including:

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