Sydney is one of those places where the spectacular cityscape captivates you upon arrival. With its unique Opera House and Harbour Bridge, it stands out certainly above all other Australian cities but perhaps, also as one of the most beautiful in the world.
But its beauty is not just skin deep. Spend some time in Sydney and you’ll find a bounty of activities that could keep you busy for days and weeks on end.
There is so much to do that in order to maximize your time there, make a list of must-sees in and work your way through it. If you don’t get to see everything, you’ll just have to return.
There’s much more but consider starting with this list of things to see and do in Sydney:
1) Sydney Opera House – You definitely should not miss this most iconic of Sydney landmarks, the Opera House. This striking architectural masterpiece is dramatically set with Sydney Harbour as a backdrop and is considered the city’s hub of art, culture and history, and plays host to famous artists in theater, music and comedy. Take a guided tour, watch a show or savor the views together with a delectable meal or a drink at the Opera Bar and Restaurant.
Cap your Sydney Opera House experience with a relaxing stroll in the surrounding Royal Botanical Gardens.
2) Sydney Harbour Bridge – Another well-known image that best symbolizes Sydney is the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Soaring high over the beautiful harbor, it is the tallest steel arch bridge in the world. Visitors can arrange a climb to have a close up encounter with this historic landmark. For those afraid of heights, a dinner cruise under the bridge might be more to your liking.
3) Taronga Zoo – A unique zoo experience awaits the visitor at Taronga Zoo. It’s Australia’s top zoological garden and is located on the north shore overlooking Sydney Harbour. While exploring the wide collection of indigenous and exotic animals, you get commanding views of the cove, the bridge and the Opera House. You can take the Zoo Sky Safari chair lift for more exciting vistas. Also learn about Australian marine life featured at the zoo’s Great Southern Oceans exhibit.
4) Sea Life Sydney Aquarium – Located at Darling Harbour in the heart of Sydney, this is one of the world’s largest aquariums. It showcases the underwater world in 14 stimulating themed zones. Six million liters of water serve as home to over 13,000 marine animals including 700 different species such as Australia’s native dugongs, platypus and penguins.
5) Bondi Beach – One of the most famous beaches in the world, Bondi Beach offers great sand and surf. You are in Australia, after all, and an Australian vacation might not be complete without experiencing the waves. Take some surfing lessons, sunbathe, laze on the golden sand, or swim in the sea.
6) Whales – Australia is known as one of the best places on earth for whale watching, specially from May through November. There are a number of excellent vantage points that offer whale spotting opportunities. One of the best is Cape Solander in Botany Bay National Park which has a viewing platform.
7) Circular Quay – With a long history as a transport hub from the colonial days up to the present, this is a bustling neighborhood which is a great base for tourists. Here, you can enjoy the best views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge while enjoying waterfront dining at Sydney’s best restaurants and cafes. There’s also great shopping at The Rocks, which feature quality souvenirs, fashion and art.
8) Summer Outdoor Concerts – Sydney is celebrated for its summer concert series (remember their summer is the North American winter). Languid evenings come alive with foreign and local musicians performing at different festivals. Fly into Sydney from mid-December to April and have your fill of dance, hip-hop, pop, rock… whatever you fancy!
9) Outdoor Markets – Sydney’s energy radiates with its colorful outdoor markets. These will definitely have something of interest for you.
The Sydney Markets in Flemington began as early as the 18th century and is Sydney’s biggest produce market. Paddy’s Markets at Haymarket also has a history of 150 years and has a wide variety of goods from vegetables to local crafts and souvenirs sold in more than 1,000 stalls.
Check out Paddington and Bondi Markets for edgy items by local designers and artists. And the Glebe Market has interesting arts and crafts and bric-a-bracs.
10) Sydney Tower Eye – To appreciate Sydney all the more, get a ticket to Sydney Tower Eye. It takes you to the city’s highest point for 360 degree views from its state-of-the-art observation deck. It includes an incredible 4D cinema experience of Sydney. For those up for an extreme adventure, try the Skywalk.
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Photo credits:
Sydney Harbour: Jimmy Harris
Sea Life Sydney Aquarium: Eva Rinaldi
Bondi Beach Concert: Eva Rinaldi