Sydney - Australia's Largest City

Welcome back... It’s been a while 

 

It’s time to outline my favourite things to do when in Sydney. Must do’s if you’re considering Sydney as part of a Gap Year or a holiday. 

As Australia’s largest city, Sydney is often the first stop for travellers taking a trip down-under. With a unique blend of impressive skyline, picturesque harbour, iconic architecture and stretches of golden beaches, it’s no wonder that Sydney’s been hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. A vibrant destination that is both buzzing with high energy and effortlessly chilled out, you’ll have an unforgettable time discovering the different sides of the city. So if you plan to visit Sydney, check out these must-do activities that I done when in Sydney to make your trip memorable.

Best things to do in Sydney(According to moi)

Harbour Bridge Climb 

Adrenaline junkie? The Sydney Harbour Bridge climb is for you! This is one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks and this activity will give you a spectacular 360-degree view of the harbour. It is a massive 134 metre climb to the height of the summit, however, is 100% worthwhile! This will give you the best panoramic view of the city and is one of the best Instagram photo opportunities! Even if you think heights aren’t for you, there are experienced guides who will help you along the way to an unforgettable view. Perfect to see an incredible sunrise or sunset over the city.

Breath-taking Beaches 

If there is one thing you must tick off whilst in Sydney, it is no doubt ensuring you visit the beaches on offer, with over 100 beaches in and around the city. This is a go-to area for both locals and tourists, and is a place to relax, workout and socialise. Bondi Beach is one of the most famous beaches, with its reputation meaning it is a magnet for tourists coming to the area. Whilst it can be a bit cramped during busy periods, it is over 1km long. Manly Beach is a personal favourite, as it is a must quieter alternative to Bondi, however, doesn’t compromise on beauty. It is located in Northern Sydney and requires boarding the 20-minute Manly Ferry that leaves from Circular Quay. The water-taxi ride is impressive in itself as it sails through the harbour and past Sydney Opera House, whilst the beach will provide perfect surfing conditions or allow you to catch a tan and make the most of the Sydney’s amazing weather. Manly Surf School was voted the no.1 surf school in New South Wales, meaning it is the place to be if you are an aspiring surfer, or simply want to try it out for the first time. The blue water and golden sand beaches in Sydney are incomparable too many others. 

Sydney Tower Eye 

Sydney is renowned for its incredible scenery, and the observatory of Sydney Tower Eye standing at 309 metres is no exception. It has a 360-degree observation deck which will allow you to admire Sydney from the rooftops. With views far into the distance, it is a great way to get an overview of the city and find your bearings if it is your first-time visiting Sydney. Even better, there are 2 revolving restaurants and a coffee shop at the top, meaning you can treat yourself to a meal whilst discovering the breath-taking views! City views and cocktails, what more could you want?? 

Sydney Zoo 

You simply can’t visit Australia without discovering its unique wildlife. Just a short walk from Darling Harbour, this zoo is home to some of the most (and feared!) animals and creatures from the country. This will give you the experience of being in an Australian outback, whilst in the heart of the city. You will have an opportunity to get a photo whilst cuddling koalas, feed kangaroos and even come face to face with Tasmanian devils! The Gum Tree Valley habitat in the zoo will allow you to meet two of the world’s deadliest snakes, if you are feeling brave! 

Sydney Aquarium

Sydney Sea life Aquarium is situated by Darling Harbour and allows you to discover the incredible life under the sea in The Great Barrier Reef. There are fascinating marine exhibits, immense tanks of tropical fish and neon jellyfish pools. Suitable for all ages, this invigorating experience will no doubt make for a great day out. There are huge transparent tunnels where huge sharks from the Reef and sting rays will swim right above your head. Sydney Aquarium will give you an experience like no other!

Sydney Opera House 

One of the most iconic landmarks in Australia, the Sydney Opera House must be on your visit list! The architecture comprises complexed roofs shaped like huge shells and it fits in perfectly with the surrounding area. Situated right on the water and close to Harbour Bridge, it is an amazing view and definitely worth visiting. Inside consists of studios, a concert hall, theatres, rehearsal rooms, a restaurant and an open-air forecourt that looks over the city and harbour. Although I was never inside it for a show, it’s worth visiting outside and getting that memorable picture. 

Bondi to Coogee coastal walk 

You may have seen many photos of this insanely beautiful walk; it is up there with one of the most popular coastal walks in Sydney. The windy route is along a beautiful cliff top of the Sydney coast and has spectacular views including the Bondi Iceberg Pool.

The walking route is about 6km and runs along some of the most beautiful beaches in Sydney. The walk starts at the famous Bondi Beach and you can follow the track to Bronte Beach, or if you really want to get your steps up, I would suggest following the trail right along to Coogee Beach!

The Rocks

The Rocks is the area where the first European settlers stepped ashore, and for this reason is seen as the birthplace of modern Sydney. For anyone who wants to get a sense of Sydney’s past then a walk through the Rocks will feel like going back in time. It has transformed massively over the past two centuries, as it used to consist of rowdy and rough neighbourhoods of sailors and gangs, but now is renowned for its culture, lined with funky bars, food stalls and boutiques. The Rocks has some of Sydneys oldest pubs such as Lord Nelson and Fortune of War, meaning you can discover some of the best watering holes in the area. Visiting the rocks makes for a great day out, and if your budget is tight, there is a free walking tour every evening at 6pm which will allow you to explore the cobbled streets, colonial buildings and learn about the history of the area.

Weather

Sydney enjoys warm summers and mild winters, with the record lows never dropping below freezing and summer highs consistently over 80 °F. Cold season runs from June until August whilst the warm season is from November to February. 

 

Thank you for reading xo