Things to do in Sydney

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Sydney Travel Guide

Sydney Town Hall featuring heritage architecture and a city

Sydney showing a bay or harbor, a city and night scenes

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.

Expedia.com is here to make your travel arrangements a breeze. Plan your flights into NSW, find rental car deals, and choose your accommodations. We are your one-stop shop for your trip to Sydney.

Sydney must see attractions

1. 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 showing street scenes, a sunset and a square or plaza

2. 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 featuring a city, a bay or harbor and boating

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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Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

4. 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 featuring a coastal town and a sandy beach

5. Bondi Beach

The seaside suburb of Bondi is often overshadowed by its near-mythical beach. There’s more to Bondi, however, than just its incredible stretch of sand. With fabulous dining, cool shopping, art deco architecture and residents devoted to the body beautiful, Bondi is a state of mind as well as a destination.

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Bondi Beach in summer in Sydney, Australia.

6. 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 showing bird life, a city and skyline

7. 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

8. Hyde Park

Nestled in the heart of Sydney is the picturesque Hyde Park, a beautiful green oasis amid busy city streets. Encompassing 40 acres (16 hectares), this urban sanctuary has hundreds of exotic and native trees. Head here for relaxation in the fresh air.

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Hyde Park Sydney City; Shutterstock ID 421569712

Recommended things to do in Sydney

Number of things to do	374
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	eSIM: Airalo Australian Package: $2
Top 5 things to do	Big Bus Sydney Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus Blue Mountains All-Inclusive Small Tour, Scenic World, Lunch, Koala, Cruise Sydney Attractions Pass including SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Taronga Zoo Ticket with Hop-On Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Explorer Cruise Sydney Explorer Pass - 2 to 7 Activities including Sydney Opera House
Under $25	Sydney Tower Eye Tickets eSIM: Airalo Australian Package Sydney Sightseeing Cruise from Darling Harbour Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise from Circular Quay Haunted Sydney Self-Guided Audio Ghost Tour
With kids	Big Bus Sydney Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus Blue Mountains All-Inclusive Small Tour, Scenic World, Lunch, Koala, Cruise Sydney Attractions Pass including SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Taronga Zoo Ticket with Hop-On Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Explorer Cruise Sydney Explorer Pass - 2 to 7 Activities including Sydney Opera House

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:

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Sydney? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Sydney

Circular Quay

Flanked by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s transportation hub is one of the prettiest terminals in the world.

Sydney Opera House

One of the world’s most famous buildings is surprisingly accessible; take in a show or just take a stroll to admire this astonishing building.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Stroll from end-to-end or climb to the top; either way, Sydney’s “Coat Hanger” serves up memories to last a lifetime.

Manly Beach

Take one of Sydney's most popular ferry rides to discover calm coves and surf beaches, restaurants, bars, shopping and spectacular views.

Bondi Beach

Locals and travelers from all over the world come to worship the sun, sand and clear blue waters of Australia’s most famous beach.

Taronga Zoo

This world-renowned zoo is cherished for its Sydney Harbour views and its residents.

Star Casino

Dining, gambling, pampering, cultural shows and clubbing are on the menu in this entertainment venue by Sydney’s Darling Harbour.

Accor Stadium

Catch an event at Accor Stadium during your trip to Sydney. Discover the lively festivals and shops in this walkable area.

Qudos Bank Arena

Catch an event at Qudos Bank Arena during your trip to Sydney. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Sydney

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.

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.

Bondi Beach

See a perfect example of the Australian beach lifestyle in this famous Sydney neighborhood with ocean pools, excellent surf and a bustling brunch scene.

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.

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.

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.

See our Where To Stay guide

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Sydney

Wollongong

Camden Park

Emu Plains

Patonga

Audley

Frequently asked questions

Is Sydney worth visiting?

Known for its coastal beaches and culture, discovering awesome things to do in Sydney is a cinch. Make sure to add Sydney Opera House to your itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Sydney?

Manly Beach and Taronga Zoo are two great places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Sydney while you're here too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Sydney?

The top tourist attraction in Sydney is Sydney Opera House, so be sure to add it to your agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Sydney?

Three days will give you time to check out the leading city attractions, such as Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo and Bondi Beach. The average stay in Sydney is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Campbelltown isn't far away.

Is Sydney a walkable city?

With exciting neighborhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city center, Sydney is a great destination to discover on foot. Wander between Sydney Opera House and Taronga Zoo. Then take a stroll around Sydney Central Business District, located 0.1 miles from downtown, and East Sydney, which is about 1 mile away.

What are some activities to do in Sydney with kids?

Deciding what to do in Sydney with kids has never been so simple. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there are many family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Sydney for adults?

Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Sydney for adults including Archie Rose Distilling Co. And Sydney Town Hall.

Are there free things to do in Sydney?

From visiting parks to strolling around vibrant neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Sydney. If you're in need of ideas, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Bondi Beach is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their traveling adventures.

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Things to do in East Sydney