A little over two years ago, I landed in Australia with a backpack, a budget, and very little time. I gave myself a mere five days for Australia's most famous city and was thus forced to prioritize the top things to do in Sydney.
For travelers yet to see the city, there are a ton of cool sights to see, and neighborhoods to check out, so by no means is this list comprehensive.
Without further ado, I present my top five things to do in Sydney, Australia.
Table of Contents
Sydney Attractions
5. Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour offers something for everyone. Whether you're a backpacker looking to enjoy a few beers with new friends, a couple seeking a romantic seafood dinner (complete with fireworks depending on the night), or a family with a fondness for IMAX movies, chances are you'll find it in the harbor.
For visiting families, check out the best things to do in Sydney with kids, including Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and the Darling Quarter playground.
And there's something special about being by the water that turns a regular nightlife district into a unique environment.
There are plenty of hotels near Darling Harbour, so it's an ideal area to base yourself when visiting Sydney.
4. The Rocks
I wouldn't have known about The Rocks if it weren't for a local Aussie friend, who, in a prior line of work, was a tour guide.
When she suggested we spend an afternoon exploring this historic, cobblestoned neighborhood, I took her up on it without knowing what awaited us.
In the late 18th century, European settlers first set foot in Australia in the area now known as The Rocks.
Much development occurred during the 19th century, and those buildings have since been turned into a wide array of restaurants, bars, shops, and museums.
If you don't luck out like me and end up befriending a former guide, you can still get a lay of the land by joining a historic walking tour or an organized pub crawl. You can even sign up for a ghost tour!
3. Queen Victoria Building
While shopping may not be your forte, everyone who visits Sydney should at least take a walk through the Queen Victoria Building.
Unlike any other shopping mall I've visited, the historic building was completed in 1898, and it shows from the facade's design to the mosaic floors throughout the interior.
Situated in the Central Business District and taking up an entire square block, it's a hard building to miss if you're walking around downtown.
Designer stores may be beyond your budget; however, they're terrific places to grab a cup of coffee and indulge in a little people-watching.
Tea aficionados should head to Level 3 for the upscale Tea Room, which offers a variety of morning and afternoon teas, as well as à la carte lunches for those with an appetite.
2. Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is one of the most well-known surf spots in Australia, if not the world.
Large waves and strong riptides mean it's not the best place to learn to surf; however, the wide expanse of beach, coupled with pretty views, ensures visitors can enjoy the atmosphere whether or not they get in the water.
If lying out in the sun and working on your tan isn't a priority, then you can get some exercise walking the popular coastal route from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach.
Along the way, you'll pass a series of secluded beaches and surf spots. Bring sun protection, as you'll be exposed to the sun for at least an hour or two.
If you're a beach bum at heart, consider basing yourself at one of the hotels in Bondi Junction.
1. The Sydney Opera House
The Opera House is a symbol of Sydney and Australia as a whole, and therefore continues to rank at the top of every visitor's "must see" list.
And with good reason, too. The architecture is unique, and the setting is gorgeous.
In Sydney, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better location to sit back and enjoy a glass of wine with friends, new or old.
After taking a drink at one of the surrounding restaurants, get up close and personal with the iconic building.
There's no need to feel self-conscious as you look for cool angles and play with different poses. I assure you, there will be tourists from around the world doing the same thing!
There you have it, my top five things to do in Sydney, as I would recommend to any friend.
