Things to do in Sydney

You'll find no shortage of things to do in Sydney, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. Whether you’re exploring the iconic structures that line the expansive harbourfront, taking in the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, relaxing on the inviting sands of Bondi Beach, or immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife, your to-do list will be the envy of many!

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Since 1932, the Sydney Harbour Bridge has stood as a magnificent fixture of the city skyline. The great steel arch is an Australian icon the world over and provides a handy connection between the CBD and Milsons Point. Why not ditch the car and take a 1km return stroll across the bridge to enjoy incredible city views at your leisure? Alternatively, unleash your adventurous spirit by tackling the breathtaking Harbour Bridge Climb!

Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge are icons of this stunning city.

The Rocks Sydney

Step off the harbour foreshore to find the home of the first European settlement. The Rocks is history, culture, and charm all rolled into one. The cobbled streets and heritage-listed buildings stand alongside the giant cityscape; the old and the new meet in magnificent fashion. Weekend markets, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and some of the country's oldest pubs are just some of the main attractions in an area so vital in the birth of Australia.

The Rocks in Sydney is brimming with history and is a popular area with visitors to the city.

Taronga Zoo

Sydney sightseeing is not complete without a trip to the most exotic place in town, Taronga Zoo. Overlooking Athol Bay on Sydney's north shore, the 75ha zoo is home to over 4,000 amazing inhabitants. The animal lover inside you will be delighted by the fine array of creatures great and small. There are plenty of native Australian animals too, as Taronga is a conservation zoo, home to cuddly koalas, wombats, kangaroos, and even the elusive bilby!

Giraffes at Sydney's Taronga Park Zoo with the city in the background.

Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens

Established in 1816, the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens is the oldest botanic garden and scientific institution in Australia. It's home to an outstanding collection of flora from around the world, with the number of plant species in excess of 8,900. Within the grounds you'll also find the historic Government House, an exquisite stone mansion from the late 19th century.

One of the lush, verdant walkways at Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens.

Visit one of Sydney's iconic beaches

A day at the beach is a classic Australian past-time, and Sydney boasts some of the most well-known and pristine beaches along the eastern coast. Names like Bondi, Coogee, and Manly are synonymous with sun and surf. Whether you're taking a dip, hopping on a surfboard, or just soaking in the sun, Sydney beaches are essential to your holiday itinerary.

Bondi Beach is the famous beach in Sydney, Australia.

Museum of Contemporary Art

Located in The Rocks, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) fuses inspiring modern art with the rich heritage of the land that it inhabits. Once home to the Maritime Services Board, the stunning art deco building will engage you with works from a collection of over 4,000 pieces. The museum also plays host to stunning touring exhibitions from local and international artists.

Sydney Museum

Built over the remains of Australia's first Government House, the Museum of Sydney celebrates the people and cultures that have helped to shape the city. Behind the historic stone facade, uncover an intriguing past and enjoy a trip through history all the way to the present.

Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is one of the world's most creative and busiest arts centres, welcoming millions of visitors from all around the world each year. You can experience the iconic venue by catching a world-class performance – the Opera House features opera (of course!), ballet, theatre, live music, comedy, contemporary dance, musicals, and more. Before or after the show, take in incredible views and enjoy a bite from the exquisite Bennelong Restaurant.

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Explore five levels of fine art within the beautiful parklands that overlook Sydney Harbour. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is home to Australia's largest collection of indigenous art alongside masterpieces from Asia and Europe. Only a 10-minute walk from the city centre, the Art After Hours program plays hosts to free music, performance art, film, and more.

All the arts and culture

Fascinatingly bizarre, Sydney's contemporary art galleries are a must-see if you're after something a little more out of the ordinary. White Rabbit located in Chippendale is a superb gallery of thought-provoking contemporary Chinese artworks. While across the harbour tucked behind Luna Park you'll discover the tranquillity of Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden, a place to let your imagination run wild.