Discover the Best of Sydney’s Top Attractions

There is so much to see and do in Sydney it can be hard to work out how to spend your time wisely to make sure you fit everything in. From sunning it up on our sandy beaches to walking through the harbour and discovering our rich history, we have you sorted.

These seven places will help you get the most out of your next trip to Sydney, so you leave feeling fulfilled – of course with maybe a little yearning to come back and see it all again.

1. Sydney Opera House

Let’s be honest, you can’t get through a trip to Sydney without a visit to the Opera House… or multiple visits! It really is a site to see, and with the amazing Opera Bar located just outside you can enjoy a drink with a gorgeous view. With the Harbour Bridge across the water behind you and the Opera House in font, you can soak up the afternoon sun and while the hours away.

If you are wanting to get inside the Opera House and see it from a different angle, you have a couple of options. They run tours throughout the year, which can give you a great behind-the-scenes look. These tours are rich in history and information, so you will learn a lot about Sydney and its iconic landmark in the process. Otherwise, if history isn’t your thing, book in a show! They have plenty of different ones running all year long, so you are bound to find something that interests you.

2. Ferry Ride to Manly

No doubt you have heard all about the pristine, sandy white beaches dotted along Sydney. They are well worth a visit. Manly is one of the favourite spots for tourists, with a whole boulevard of shops and food places so you can make a day of it. You can enjoy a gentle coastal walk on the oceanfront along to Shelly Beach to make the most of the sites on offer, or laze back on the sand and soak up the sun.

Even better, you can jump on a ferry ride from Circular Quay and enjoy the scenery along the way. But be sure to put your hat and sunscreen on for the trip! Factor in an ice-cream stop, take some fish and chips to the sane while shooing away the seagulls, and you will enjoy a true Aussie experience. There are also plenty of bars around Manly if you’re keen to stay back and check out the nightlife. 

3. New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Australia is one of the first places to celebrate New Year’s with the clock striking over to midnight ahead of the rest of the world, and we do it in style with an amazing fireworks display. You can enjoy the 9pm and the midnight fireworks from a number of different vantage points around the city like from Harbour Bridge or Luna Park.

If you want to skip the busy city, you can even go further out with many places offering suburb views from afar. The trick? Plan ahead. Look at venues, set a budget (you really can go all out depending what you are after) and book it in, as it gets busy very fast. Many people start queuing from the early hours of New Year’s Eve. If this doesn’t appeal to you, have a look at booking a restaurant with a view, so you can ensure you have the perfect spot. 

4. Day Trip to Blue Mountains

While the centre of the city has so much to see and do, you can also escape on day trips outside of Sydney that are well worth it. The Blue Mountains is about an hour and a half by car from Sydney CBD, and you can get there by car, bus, or train. 

There is plenty to see and do while you are there. You can check out the Three Sisters – a fabulous landmark that is well worth the visit. Or head off on a bushwalk and take a look at the beautiful nature out that way. 

Add in a trip to Scenic World, where you can enjoy the Scenic Railway, Scenic Skyway and Scenic Walkway – all with amazing views. Once you’re there, you might even find you want to spend the night to get the most out of it.

5. Wine Tasting in Hunter Valley

Whether you consider yourself a wine connoisseur, or simply like to enjoy a drop every now and then, Hunter Valley is for you. This one is a little further afield, being about 3.5 hours from Sydney CBD, so it is well worth booking accommodation for a night or two rather than trying a day trip. Plus, there is plenty to see so you won’t regret it.

You can book in a winery tour or jump in the car and do it yourself as it is very easy to get around. The Hunter Valley gardens are also worth a visit, and they have different events on throughout the year. The Hunter Valley is also known for its concerts and festivals, so be sure to check what is on before going.

6. Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

When in Sydney… the Harbour Bridge climb has to be one of the most iconic things you can do on your trip and it makes for some spectacular photos. You really will feel like you are on top of the world with this one – and don’t worry, you will be in a harness the whole time.

There are a number of different climbs to choose from, ranging from the Sampler to the Summit, all offering different inclusions at various price points. Another thing you should book in before you come, just to avoid long lines or any disappointment.

7. Whale Watching

This one isn’t for the weak stomached, but it is well worth it. The whales’ migration occurs between May and November, but the best time to see them is June and July. Of course, this is winter in Sydney and the weather can be unpredictable, which can lead to some choppy waters – so be prepared!

You can book a cruise that leaves directly from Sydney Harbour and enjoy a day out on the water. Most of the cruises include lunch on board, so have a look at the added extras before booking.