Things to do in Sydney

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Sydney featuring night scenes, a bridge and a river or creek

Sydney Attractions

Thinking about a visit to the Land Down Under? Expedia is at the ready, your go-to site and trip planner for a journey to Sydney, Australia. You'll find there are so many things to do in Sydney that you'll be hard-pressed to pack them all into a single visit. Let us help you ensure your Sydney tours take you to all of the must see tourist spots and local favorites on the map.

New South Wales is a glory of a place. As you venture into the unknown, you'll want to make sure you don't miss the wonders this beautiful city has to offer.

Sydney is an amazing city with all of the modern conveniences and breathtaking attractions. Whether your Sydney excursions take you indoors or out, be sure to make a trip to the top picks for any visitor passing through. This may be a once in a lifetime journey. Be sure to make every minute count as you choose Sydney activities. Bondi Beach is one of the most popular attractions in Sydney, not to mention Port Jackson, and Darling Harbour. Take in the view from one of Sydney's best spots, the Sydney Harbour Bridge. If you enjoy a show, then you must go to the Sydney Opera House, an amazing example of architecture gracing the water.

If you're in the mood to slow life down for a little while, take a stroll through one of the many parks in Sydney. The Rocks is one of the best places to sit on a bench, have a picnic, or watch the world go by. Other favorites include Observatory Hill, the Hickson Road Reserve, and Foundation Park. Need a taste of wild life? Don't forget the Taronga Zoo and the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. If an amusement park is your cup of tea, look no further than Luna Park.

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Sydney must see attractions

1. Sydney Opera House

Regularly listed as one of the greatest architectural works of the 20th century, the Sydney Opera House sits right on Sydney Harbour, and is listed as a World Heritage Site. The Opera House has several major resident companies including: Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet, Sydney Theatre Company and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Over 1 million people come here to enjoy performances each year, while millions more come just to admire the building, a symphony in itself.
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Sydney Opera House showing a bay or harbor, modern architecture and a monument

2. Circular Quay

Circular Quay is situated in the small inlet of Sydney Cove, the official landing site of the First Fleet. Scottish political reformer Thomas Muir once had a cottage here, and for decades it was the city’s main shipping port. Today, it’s best known as the place to catch one of Sydney's iconic ferries, which travel all over the harbor. It’s also a great spot to take in incredible views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
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Circular Quay featuring general coastal views, modern architecture and a city

3. Sydney Harbour Bridge

The idea for the Sydney Harbour Bridge dates back to 1815, but work didn’t start until 1923. Famous for its distinctive arch and enormous pylons, the bridge was completed in 1932. This was the world’s widest long span bridge until 2012, and Sydney’s tallest structure until 1967. It contains over 6 million hand-driven rivets and, for each repainting, requires 7,925 gallons (30,000 liters) of paint.
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Sydney Harbour Bridge featuring night scenes, a city and a river or creek

4. Taronga Zoo

Nestled into 185-acres (75-hectares) of hilly harbor-side bushland in the upscale suburb of Mosman, you’ll find one of the world’s most spectacular zoos. Taronga Zoo is the perfect place to encounter Australia's wildlife. And, with more than 2,500 animals representing 340-plus species, Taronga has the entire world covered.
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Taronga Zoo featuring zoo animals and bird life as well as an individual male

5. Manly Beach

Manly Beach was named after the strikingly healthy and handsome indigenous people who first lived in the area. Back in 1903, it was one of the first seaside resorts to allow daylight swimming and surfing. These days, Manly is an upmarket Sydney suburb by the water, offering fine beaches, heritage architecture, shopping, dining, and bush walks. The ferry journey alone, from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf, is a must-do Sydney experience.
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Manly Beach showing swimming, a coastal town and boating

6. Star Casino

The Star Sydney, formerly The Star, The Star City Casino, and Sydney Harbour Casino, may have changed names and hands a lot, but its essence remains the same. This is where high-rolling Aussies and tourists alike come to place bets, dine out in glitzy restaurants, relax in the spa, see a show or dance the night away. Offering 24/7 entertainment, The Star Sydney never sleeps, but should you need some rest then the on-site hotel and spa will come in handy.
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Star Casino showing a sunset and signage

What to do in Sydney

Free Things to Do in Sydney

Leave your purse in the hotel room. It's possible to amuse yourself in Sydney without surrendering a cent.

Art Gallery of New South Wales - Talk to the staff and discover more about the interesting collections on display here.

Carriageworks - Spend some time here and discover the arts and culture of the region.

Cremorne Point to Mosman Bay Walk - If you'd love to ramp up the fun factor during your getaway, this is a great place to do it.

Ben Buckler Point - Put on your swimsuit and enjoy a bit of exercise at this refreshing swimming spot.

Chifley Plaza - If you enjoy modern design and architecture, add this landmark to your schedule.

The Cenotaph - Feel like you've gone back in time while ambling around this historic site.

GPO Sydney - This is a vibrant location where you can soak up the atmosphere and appreciate local life.

Wedding Cake Island - Take things at a slower pace and treat yourself to a little time out near the water.

Sydney Hospital - Strike up a conversation with a few locals and discover why many travelers stop by this place.

St. James Church - Whatever your beliefs, this place is sure to inspire a sense of reverence in you.

Walsh Bay - Take a stroll by the water and perhaps even stick a toe in.

The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre - Get out of the concrete jungle and get back to nature at this stunning attraction.

Wynyard Park - If you enjoy working in your garden, this attraction will excite your green thumb.

Things to Do in Sydney with Kids

There's fun for all the family in Sydney. Here are some family friendly experiences to try together that are certain to make your vacation unforgettable:


 

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Frequently asked questions

What to do in Sydney on a sunny day?
Soak up the nice weather (and get a little exercise too) with one or two of these top outdoor activities:


What to do in Sydney on a rainy day?
There’s no need to splish, splash and splosh your way through a rainy day when there are fantastic indoor activities on offer:


What is Sydney famous for?
Pack comfortable shoes because there are loads of well-known attractions that simply beg to be explored:

  • Sydney Opera House
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Bondi Beach
  • Sydney Showground

What should I not miss in Sydney?
If you can only explore one sight here, make sure it’s Circular Quay.
Are there cheap things to do in Sydney?
What can you do in Sydney for free?
You’ll barely have time to fetch your wallet out of your backpack with so many incredible free things to do:

  • Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Bondi Beach
  • Circular Quay
  • Manly Beach


Discover the most popular places to visit in Sydney

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Sydney

Sydney Town Hall featuring heritage architecture and a city

Sydney Central Business District

4.5/5(1,320 area reviews)

Historical and commercial heart of Sydney, the CBD boasts towering skyscrapers, lively café culture, and nightlife in areas like Darling Harbour. Explore parks such as Hyde Park and cultural institutions, while enjoying easy access to public transport.

Sydney Central Business District
Darling Harbour which includes central business district, night scenes and a bay or harbor

Darling Harbour

4.5/5(269 area reviews)

Adjacent to Sydney's city centre, Darling Harbour boasts a pedestrian precinct with attractions like the Australian National Maritime Museum and Chinese Garden of Friendship. Enjoy dining at Cockle Bay Wharf, explore Tumbalong Park, and access various transport options, including the Inner West Light Rail and ferry services.

Darling Harbour
Parramatta featuring general coastal views and a city

Parramatta

Major CBD and suburb, Parramatta boasts lush Parramatta Park, bustling Westfield shopping center, and diverse dining options on Church Street. Easily accessible via trains, buses, and ferries.

Parramatta
Manly Beach which includes tropical scenes, a sandy beach and a coastal town

Manly

Beach-side suburb with easy ferry access, Manly offers a mix of ocean and harbor beaches, scenic cycle tracks, and a lively commercial area along The Corso. Explore historic sites like North Head Quarantine Station and enjoy outdoor dining.

Manly
Circular Quay - The Rocks which includes street scenes, a city and heritage architecture

The Rocks

Historic area near Sydney's city center, The Rocks boasts close proximity to Circular Quay and Harbour Bridge views. Explore weekend Rocks Market, galleries, and historic pubs like Fortune of War, while enjoying walkable streets and easy rail access.

The Rocks
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Sydney Olympic Park

Featuring a large sports and entertainment area, commercial developments, and extensive parklands, this Greater Western Sydney suburb offers attractions like Bicentennial Park and Newington Armory. Easily accessible via Olympic Park railway line and ferry services.

Sydney Olympic Park

 

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Popular day trips from Sydney