Sydney has so many things to offer, and it can be difficult to choose between them all – so here are the top 15 best things to do in Sydney in 2023. From markets and outdoor experiences to cool bars and spots… Here are the top things to do, that you should not miss.
Sydney is a very walkable city, and we exclusively walked around when we visited the city in May 2023. If you’re going on a full East Coast Australia road trip, you can find my complete road trip guide here.
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1. See the Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is one of the World’s most famous buildings and definitely the most famous Sydney symbol. You can show anyone a picture of it, and they will know it’s in Sydney.
The Sydney Opera House was finished in 1973 and is a beautiful sight both inside and outside. However, the view of the Opera House from the opposite side of the harbour is the best, in my opinion. But it’s also amazing to see the details up close if you go up the stairs towards the main entrance.
If you want a view from the water, hop on one of the public ferries and take a seat outside to see the Sydney Opera House as you pass by.
And if you wish to see the Sydney Opera House from the inside, you will have to buy an opera ticket or purchase one of the guided tours (not affiliated or sponsored).
2. Bridgewalk on Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is another famous symbol of Sydney. Even though it’s a magnificent sight from the ground, the very best way to experience the bridge is on a Bridgeclimb.
Only one company, Bridge Climb Sydney, offers Bridgeclimbs on Sydney Harbour Bridge (not affiliated or sponsored). Here you can follow in the footsteps of celebrities such as Daniel Radcliffe, Sydney Sweeney, Nicole Kidman, and Ben Stiller.
The three-hour long Summit climb takes you to the top of the bridge and back, and costs between 196 and 283 USD. It’s a unique experience you shouldn’t miss when you visit Sydney.
3. Go to Manly Beach
If you’re craving beach and surf vibes while in Sydney, Manly is the place to be. Manly is only a short public ferry ride away (there are also fast boats) and the trip will take you past the Sydney Opera House for a stunning view from the water.
4. See Sydney from above from Sydney Tower Eye
If you aren’t afraid of heights and want to see all of Sydney all the way from Darling Harbour to Bondi Beach, the Sydney Tower Eye is just the thing (not affiliated or sponsored).
General admission is about 30 AUD, and you have to book a time slot if you book online. We just walked in and booked at the counter. But in high season, there can be a line.
There’s also a bar in the tower, but you have to be willing to spend extra to get a seat by the window and there is a minimum spend.
5. Shop in the Queen Victoria Building
The Queen Victoria Building is a historic building full of boutiques from small and high street brands. The building itself is beautiful from both the outside and the inside so you should set some time aside to take a stroll through the building to see the colourful glass-stained windows and intricate detailing.
6. Roam the CBD
If you are in the mood for shopping, you’re in luck because the Sydney shopping scene is rich. High street stores, designer boutiques and everything in between can be found in Sydney’s CBD (Central Business District, red.) – mostly on George Street and King Street.
And if you shop to much and need help getting home, the tram is right nearby.
7. Visit Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is West of the Sydney CBD, and you can walk between the Rocks and Darling Harbour along the waterfront. Darling Harbour is home to Sydney’s Aquarium and Australia’s National Maritime Museum. It’s also located right next to Sydney’s vibrant China Town.
8. Walk around China Town
Sydney’s China Town boasts many Chinese, Indonesian, Korean and other restaurants. You eat so well here, and prices are usually very reasonable. You can also visit the local market where you can find fresh fish, meat, and vegetables for cheap – it’s right next to Darling Harbour.
9. Enjoy The Rocks
The Rocks is the Sydney neighbourhood located right beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge. And this is many people’s favourite part of Sydney – with good reason. The low, colourful townhouses are a fun (and needed) contrast to Sydney Skyline backdrop, providing a much needed break from the bustling city.
There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cute boutiques in the rocks. It’s a great neighbourhood to stroll around in with plenty of shade, narrow streets, great coffeeshops, and interesting things to look at. When the weekend comes around, the rocks transforms with it’s weakly The Rocks Market featuring stands selling food and craftsmanship.
10. Swim at Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is beautiful and a must-see in Sydney. It’s no surprise that the ocean side pool has become synonymous with Sydney and makes a very picturesque backdrop. The quickest way to get there is to take a taxi or an Uber – it should take around 10 minutes depending on traffic.
11. Take a walk in the Royal Botanic Garden
When you’re walking around the Sydney Harbour to look at the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, do yourself a favour and keep walking once you’ve passed the Opera House. Not long after, you’ll see the botanic gardens. It’s a great place for a picnic or a lovely stroll to look at all the plants and sculptures.
12. Take the public ferry around the harbour
Even if you’re not going to Manly Beach, a trip on the public ferry is still worth it to see the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the magnificent skyline from the water.
All the public ferries can be found on the wharf, and it’s easy to get there as the tram stops right outside. But it’s within walking distance from all of central Sydney as well. The wharf is located between the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, and you won’t have a problem finding it – just follow everyone else.
Paying for the ferry is easy and works the same way as paying for other public transport in Sydney. You simply tap your credit card at the entrance, and you’re in!
13. Visit Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a centrally located park and a beautiful place with plenty of fountains, sculptures and lovely old trees. It’s not far from the Royal Botanic Garden, and you can easily see both in one day.
14. See the Anzac Memorial
Hyde Park is home to the Anzac Memorial that was built as a memorial to all Australians who lost their lives during the First World War. It’s a beautiful piece of architecture and the reflecting water in front of the building makes for beautiful pictures.
Remember to be respectful. Avoid leaning on the building and sitting or lying on the steps of the memorial building.
15. See St. Mary’s Cathedral
If you like architecture, you can combine a visit to the Anzac memorial with the St. Mary’s Cathedral nearby. The cathedral is adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows and is gorgeous both inside and out.
Please keep quiet and show respect as St. Mary’s Cathedral is a functioning place of worship.
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Complete guide: how to plan the best East Coast Australia road trip
