With beautiful beaches, historical sites, great food and heaps of culture, Sydney is full of memorable experiences. You can enjoy the best of urban city style with incredible natural parks and views – the best of both worlds.
Need some inspiration for your trip? Here’s the most unmissable things to do in this bucket list city.
Best things to do in Sydney:
How do these rankings work?
1. Discover Sydney’s secret beaches
Some of the best beaches in Sydney are off the beaten track. You can hire kayaks from the Manly Kayak Centre and paddle to the beach on North Head.
Other gorgeous hidden beaches in Sydney include:
- Milk Beach in Vaucluse
- Collins Flat Beach and Store Beach in Manly
- Chinamans Beach and Sirius Cove in Mosman
- Congwong Beach in La Perouse
- Wattamolla Beach in the Royal National Park
2. See Sydney from above
Sydney Seaplanes flies over the city’s world-famous attractions, landing on waterways next to fantastic restaurants. Fly over the famous coastline, heading north to Palm Beach of ‘Home and Away’ fame. Return via the waterways of Pittwater for a final circuit over Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Unbeatable.
3. Swim in the Instagrammable Bondi Icebergs Pool
An international landmark, no trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to this pool club. The massive saltwater pool tips out over the rocks into the ocean and is an unforgettable experience.
4. Ride Manly Ferry
Since 1855, Sydney Ferries’ famous Manly Ferry is a “must do” for visitors, as you’ll get amazing harbour and skyline views. While locals use it daily for their commute to work, it’s just as useful for visitors. The ferry takes just 30 minutes and connects the suburb of Manly with CBD.
5. Walk the coast path from Bondi to Coogee
This beautiful coastal route has plenty of whale watching points along the way, as well as sheltered rock pools to dip your toes into. The secluded Gordon’s Bay is another hidden gem. This picturesque little beach is popular with snorkellers and scuba divers.
6. Swim with sharks at Sydney Aquarium
Diving with sharks at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is an exhilarating experience, and one of only a few experiences worldwide where you’re guaranteed an underwater encounter with sharks. You’ll dive cage-free with sharks and massive stingrays.
7. Cycle across Sydney Bridge
Opened in 1932, the bridge is fondly nicknamed the Coathanger by Sydneysiders. You can walk and cycle across the bridge or climb to the top for stunning views. You can hire bicycles in the city or join Sydney Bike Tours, Bonza Bike Tours, Bikebuffs or BlueBananas for guided tours.
