She needs no introduction - Sydney is the darling of Australia. The perfect hot spot to start or end your East Coast adventure, we dare you to get bored here. From the world famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge, to the historic architecture and eclectic nightlife, Sydney is the city to be in. The launching pad for a stunning Blue Mountains tour, as well as home to the famous Bondi Beach and brunch spots that bring tears of joy. Beware, this place is expensive (why is it always the best cities?), but it's unmissable and there's plenty you can do for free!
Population: 5 million
Vibe: Sunny, Fast-paced, Vibrant
Known for: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk
Venture out to Sydney's eastern suburbs and take a cliff-top coastal walk from Coogee to Bondi (or the other way around). This 6km walk is a must-do - showcasing impressive limestone formations and some of Sydney's most beautiful beaches. Each one more secluded than the last. If the sun is shining, choose your favourite spot and pitch up with a good book for the day or visit the famous Bondi Icebergs and take a swim.
Take a trip to the Blue Mountains
Easily one of the best day trips on the East Coast and the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney. Before we get underway, you could take a trip to the Blue Mountains National Park, see the famous Three Sisters and mind-blowing Jamison Valley.
Walk around Darling Harbour
With awesome river views and heaps of restaurants and bars to keep you well-fed and entertained, Darling Harbour is the 'place to be' and a true Sydney icon.
See the Sydney Opera House
If a tour of the Opera House or a show is a bit out of budget, then do not despair! You can still get up close and personal with one of Sydney's most distinctive buildings. Take your Insta-worthy shots and then head down to the Opera Bar where you can listen to music as the sun goes down.
Soak up the views from Pylon Lookout
One of the city's best vantage points, Pylon Lookout near the Harbour Bridge is the perfect photo stop. Climb 200 steps to the top of the lookout and marvel at Circular Quay from above.
Take the ferry to Manly
The ferry is a brilliant way to see the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo and Camp Cove from the water. Once you arrive in Manly, there's plenty to explore. For awe-inspiring views of the north and south headlands, we recommend the Manly to Spit walk.
WHERE STRAY STAYS
Adventure Tours: Wake Up Hostel Sydney
Perfectly located, this modern yet laid-back hostel is situated outside Central Station in the CBD. Just 3 train stops from Sydney Opera House, the hostel offers fresh dorms and a range of private rooms. Amenities include: Free Wi-Fi, Basement Bar and a TV/Movie Lounge.
Address: 509 Pitt Street
Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
View in Google Maps
Tel: +61 2 9288 7888
Select Tours: Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour
Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour welcomes you into the serenity of its tucked-away city central location. Head to your room for some unlimited R&R, enjoying the Manhattan-inspired design that blends with Sydney’s casual cool. Surf the web with complimentary Wi-Fi, enjoy the modernity of the curved rainfall showers or simply laze an hour away on the embedded window day lounges. The property also boasts a heated rooftop pool and bar.
Address: 319/325 Sussex St
Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
View in Google Maps
Tel: + 61 (0) 2 9060 8888
SYDNEY AIRPORT TO CENTRAL CITY
BY TAXI
A taxi from Sydney Airport to the CBD costs around $45-$60 and takes about 20 minutes. Follow the signs to the taxi ranks.
BY TRAIN
The Airport Link train is a cheap and convenient way to reach the city centre. The journey takes around 15 minutes and costs $15-$20. You can purchase an Opal Card or just tap on with your contactless Visa or Mastercard. The station is located at the northern end of the airport terminal.
STRAY TOURS THAT START IN SYDNEY
STRAY TOURS THAT END IN SYDNEY
READ OUR BLOGS:
- If you're short on time, here's how to spend 24 hours in Sydney seeing all the major sights and discovering some hidden gems
- Sticking to a strict backpacker budget? We've got your back! Make the most out of your time with these free things to do in Sydney