Sydney, Australia, is a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks, making it one of the top destinations in the world for travellers. Set along a breathtaking harbour and framed by golden beaches and lush national parks, Sydney offers something for every kind of visitor—whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, a foodie, or someone simply looking to soak in the laid-back Australian lifestyle.

I travelled to Australia for over a month back in June of 2025 and spent multiple days discovering Sydney, a city that is now one of my favourites. Therefore, I am here to share with you the 17 best things to do in Sydney, Australia.

Table of Contents

• 1. Visit the Sydney Opera House
• 2. Walk around the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
• 3. Go shopping at the Queen Victoria Building
• 4. Walk across Harbour Bridge
• 5. Take a surf class at Bondi Beach
• 6. Visit the Bondi Icebergs Pool
• 7. Walk the coast from Bondi to Coogee
• 8. Swim at Manly Beach
• 9. Watch the sunset at the Observatory Hill Lookout
• 10. Visit the Manly Markets 2095
• 11. Visit the Rocks Market
• 12. Take any ferry to see the Sydney Opera House
• 13. Try the famous Ricotta Hotcake
• 14. Attend the Sydney Vivid Festival
• 15. Walk along Circular Quay
• 16. Try the best pastries in Sydney at the Shadow Baking
• 17. Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains

1. Visit the Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is an iconic architectural masterpiece located on Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour, Australia. Known for its distinctive sail-like design, the structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of modern architecture. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and opened in 1973, it houses multiple performance venues, including a concert hall and theaters, hosting opera, music, theater, and dance. Its striking white shells contrast beautifully with the blue harbor, making it one of the most photographed buildings in the world and a cultural hub for both locals and tourists.

There are many ways to visit the Sydney Opera House. You can either walk around the free areas, take a guided tour, or even see a show. I opted for a guided tour, which takes you through the different stages and the different areas of the Opera House that are not accessible unless you buy the ticket. You also get to learn a lot about the history of this iconic building.

2. Walk around the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a lush, expansive green space nestled along the edge of Sydney Harbour, just a short walk from the Sydney Opera House. Established in 1816, it is the oldest scientific institution in Australia and home to a vast collection of native and exotic plants. The garden offers beautifully landscaped grounds, themed plant sections, and peaceful walking paths with stunning views of the harbour, city skyline, and historic landmarks. It serves as both a tranquil escape from the city and a center for botanical research, education, and conservation.

The Royal Botanic Garden is free to visit! My favourite place in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair because it is one of the best places to photograph the Sydney Opera House in my opinion.

3. Go shopping at the Queen Victoria Building

The Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is a stunning heritage-listed shopping arcade in the heart of Sydney’s central business district. Built in the late 19th century and beautifully restored, the building features Romanesque architecture, intricate stained glass windows, mosaic-tiled floors, and a grand central dome that captures the elegance of a bygone era. Inside, it houses a mix of high-end boutiques, specialty shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it a perfect blend of history and modern retail.

I personally did not buy anything there since I was window shopping and getting inspiration for my future expenses, but there are so many cute shops that if I would go back, I would definitely get some signature pieces.

4. Walk across Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks, stretching majestically across Sydney Harbour and linking the city’s central business district with the North Shore. Opened in 1932, this massive steel arch bridge is not only a vital transportation route but also an iconic symbol of Sydney.

Visitors can walk or cycle across it for panoramic views of the Opera House and skyline, or take part in the thrilling BridgeClimb experience to the summit for a truly unforgettable perspective. I decided to simply walk across it, but I met many other travellers that did the BridgeClimb that loved it.

5. Take a surf class at Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is one of Sydney’s most famous coastal destinations, known for its golden sands, rolling surf, and vibrant beach culture. Located just a few kilometres from the city center, it attracts surfers, swimmers, and sun seekers from around the world. The beach is lined with trendy cafés, oceanfront restaurants, and lively shops, creating a laid-back yet energetic atmosphere. 

Even when I travelled to Sydney during their winter, there were lots of surfers during the weekend, and the surf lessons are also available all day. Whether you want to simply relax by the beach or go for a surf lesson, Bondi Beach is a must-visit, and is honestly my favourite place in Sydney (as cliché as it might sound).

6. Visit the Bondi Icebergs Pool

The Bondi Icebergs Pool is an iconic oceanfront swimming club perched dramatically on the edge of Bondi Beach, where icy seawater cascades over rock walls into a sculptural, Olympic-sized pool. Founded in the 1920s to help lifesavers train during winter, it blends rugged natural beauty with heritage-listed architecture—complete with the historic clubhouse, terrace, and sauna. Visitors can take a dip while gazing out across crashing waves and panoramic views of the Pacific, or simply enjoy a drink on the terrace at sunset.

It’s a good place to spend the morning or afternoon. The price of a single day admission is 10$ for adults. You also have access to the sauna with the admission ticket.

I don’t recommend visit on Thursdays since it is their pool cleaning day! I actually initially went on a Thursday and the pools were empty, so I went back on a Saturday. I think that going back on the Friday/Saturday could be the best options as the water of the pool is cleaner.

7. Walk the coast from Bondi to Coogee

The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a breathtaking 6‑kilometer seaside trail that meanders past rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and sweeping ocean vistas—a true showcase of Sydney’s coastal beauty. Beginning at iconic Bondi Beach, the path passes through Tamarama and Bronte, with their dramatic headlands and picturesque picnic areas, before reaching the stunning Gordons Bay and its vibrant marine life.

Along the way, you’ll find shaded rock platforms perfect for a quick swim or sunbake, seaside parks ideal for a rest, and plenty of cafés and lookout points offering sweeping views over the Pacific.

This was honestly my favourite thing to do in Sydney, so I had to do it twice. The views are just absolutely breathtaking and the vibes are lovely, with people working out, drinking coffee, walking their dogs, etc.

8. Swim at Manly Beach

Manly Beach is a beloved Sydney escape, known for its laid-back vibe, wide sandy shores, and excellent surf. Just a scenic 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, the journey itself offers stunning views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing in the sun, and the nearby Manly Scenic Walkway offers spectacular coastal views. You could even spend a whole day here, and there are lots of beachside cafés, boutique shops, and a beautiful promenade lined with Norfolk pines.

9. Watch the sunset at the Observatory Hill Lookout

Observatory Hill Lookout in Sydney offers a serene escape perched just above the city’s historic Rocks district—an ideal spot to soak in sweeping views of the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and the sparkling waters beyond. In the evenings, hundreds of people gather there to watch the sunset.

Many visitors bring picnics or take leisurely strolls, while others gather at the historic sandstone walls to capture the dazzling harbour reflections. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect light or simply seeking a peaceful moment, this intimate sunset spot offers one of the most breathtaking, city-meets-nature experiences in Sydney.

10. Visit the Manly Markets 2095

Manly Markets 2095 is a vibrant weekend open‑air market nestled just steps from iconic Manly Beach, operating every Saturday and Sunday. It showcases an eclectic mix of eco‑friendly wares, artisan crafts, handcrafted jewellery, vintage apparel, imported treasures, original artworks, and on Sundays even fresh produce, flowers, sourdough loaves, bagels, paella, and handmade gnocchi.

Just a 5‑minute walk from the ferry, the markets are easily accessible and complemented by free two‑hour council parking and surrounding shops and eateries. I visited by ferry as I was also going to Manly Beach. The markets sold a lot of unique things, and I had to buy a few accessories because the items were so cute.

11. Visit the Rocks Market

The Rocks Market is a must-visit Sydney weekend staple, nestled amid the historic cobblestone lanes of the city’s oldest precinct—The Rocks. Every Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM, this vibrant open-air bazaar transforms George, Playfair, Argyle, and Atherden Streets into a lively tapestry of more than 100 artisanal stalls, offering handcrafted jewellery, local art, boutique fashion, indigenous creations, and quirky homewares. There are also a lot of food options that you can choose from.

I did not specifically buy anything while I was at the Rocks Market, but I loved wandering around and simply looking at the amazing items that the people sold.

12. Take any ferry to see the Sydney Opera House

From Circular Quay in Sydney, there are lots of ferries that depart to various locations. Embark on one of these ferries to capture the Sydney Opera House from up close.

I decided to take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly, so in a sense, I hit 2 birds with one stone. Even if you do not plan on visiting Manly, I highly recommend taking the ferry just for the trill of it, since you really get to be close to the Sydney Opera House and get multiple angles of it that you would not get on land.

13. Try the famous Ricotta Hotcake

The ricotta hotcake is a beloved Australian brunch classic, especially popular in trendy cafés across cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Thick, fluffy, and delightfully creamy thanks to the ricotta folded into the batter, these hotcakes are often served as a towering stack topped with seasonal fruits, crushed nuts, edible flowers, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup or honeycomb butter.

I tried it at Harry’s in Bondi and I absolutely loved it. There are also various restaurants in Sydney that serve ricotta hotcakes, but Harry’s was also famous for their coffee and matcha, so I wanted to try them out for other reasons. I highly recommend stopping by if you are around Bondi.

14. Attend the Sydney Vivid Festival

Vivid Sydney is an electrifying three‑week festival (May 23–June 14, 2025) that transforms Sydney into a nocturnal dreamscape powered by light, music, food, and ideas. With its 15th‑anniversary theme “Dream,” the event features over 200 experiences—75 % of which are free—including the spectacular Vivid Light Walk spanning five zones from The Rocks to Darling Harbour, AI‑driven installations like Moment Factory’s Lucid Dream, and vibrant projections such as “Kiss of Light” on the Opera House and “King Dingo” at the Museum of Contemporary Art.

If you visit the first day of the festival, there is also a firework show that is beautiful. I visited about half way through the festival, and the light show was very gorgeous. Beware though that the festival is spread across multiple locations in the city, so I recommend taking the public transit to get to the various locations if you plan on hitting all the spots in one evening.

15. Walk along Circular Quay

Circular Quay is the bustling heart of Sydney Harbour, where the city’s most iconic landmarks—the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge—converge in one spectacular waterfront setting. A hub of activity day and night, it’s the main departure point for ferries that whisk visitors to destinations like Manly, Taronga Zoo, and Watsons Bay. Along the promenade, you’ll find vibrant street performers, waterfront cafés, historic pubs, and contemporary art spaces like the Museum of Contemporary Art.

I loved walking along Circular Quay, having the multiple views to admire the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.  

16. Try the best pastries in Sydney at the Shadow Baking

The cafe and food scene in Sydney Australia is very diverse. Among the cafes, there are lots of places that sell some of the best pastries. I went to Shadow Baking in Darlinghurst, and I had some of the best pastries of my life.

It is a stylish little bakery born from the genius of three Gelato Messina chefs—Tom Mitchell, Florian Fritsch, and Remi Talbot—who transformed their popular market stall into a permanent, flavour‑filled destination. Open Friday to Sunday from early morning until everything sells out, this beloved spot delights early risers with creative viennoiserie—think macadamia‑mandarin and twice‑baked croissants, pandan coconut brioches, classic custard‑tart danishes, and bold savoury twists like the Reuben pretzel croissant or vegemite‑avo‑chilli scroll.

17. Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains, located just a two-hour drive from Sydney, offer a breathtaking escape into nature, known for their dramatic sandstone cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, and mist-filled valleys that give the region its signature blue haze. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed area is home to iconic sights like the Three Sisters rock formation, Scenic World’s thrilling cableways and skywalks, and dozens of bushwalking trails that lead to waterfalls, lookouts, and hidden canyons. Quaint mountain towns like Katoomba and Leura add charm with cozy cafés, artisan shops, and heritage guesthouses. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or simply soaking in tranquil views, the Blue Mountains deliver a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.

I took the train and the bus, which took approximately 2-3 hours one way. I then bought the tickets to Scenic World so have access to the various cableways and the lookout points at the Blue Mountains. I do think though that it is possible to visit the Blue Mountains without buying the ticket to Scenic World as it can be expensive, but that will require more walking to get to the various sites. It all depends on your preferences.