The Best Things to Do in Sydney: A Full Guide to the Harbour City

I’ve been to Sydney seven times, and each visit has been nothing short of magical. Sydney is a city that truly has it all: stunning beaches, breathtaking nature, world-class entertainment, incredible shopping, and a food scene that will leave you craving more. What I love most about Sydney is its perfect blend of urban sophistication and laid-back coastal vibes. The people are friendly, the city feels safe and clean, and there’s always something new to discover. Plus, as someone flying from Honolulu, I’ve always been able to find affordable direct flights, making it an easy destination to revisit.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler like me, Sydney offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Here are my top recommendations for the best things to do in Sydney, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.

1. Coastal Walks: Bondi to Coogee and Spit to Manly

Bondi to Coogee Walk

No trip to Sydney is complete without the iconic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. This 3.5- miles (6-kilometer) trail offers stunning ocean views, rugged cliffs, and picturesque beaches. Before reaching Bondi Beach, take a break with a refreshing drink or snack at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar and enjoy the amazing views. Once at Bondi, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Bondi’s many eateries. My favorites include Two Forks, Blackwood, and The Shop and Wine Bar.

Spit to Manly Walk

For a more secluded nature experience, the Spit to Manly Walk is a must. This 6.2 miles (10-kilometer) trail takes you through lush bushland, secluded beaches, and scenic lookouts. Once in Manly, refuel with a healthy lunch at Gridlers, Momo Bar, or Ruby Lane. Don’t forget to explore the charming town and beach and take the ferry back to Sydney for breathtaking views of the harbour.

2. Catch a Sunset at North Head, Manly

If you’re in Manly in the evening, head to North Head for one of the most spectacular sunset spots in Sydney. During New Year’s Eve, we were lucky enough to catch the Sydney fireworks from here—a truly unforgettable experience.

3. Experience Sydney’s Thriving Arts and Entertainment Scene

Broadway Shows and Plays

Sydney is home to world-class theatres, including the iconic Sydney Opera House. Whether you’re into Broadway shows, plays, or live performances, there’s always something to enjoy.

Comedy Nights

For a night of laughs, head to The Comedy Store. I’ve never been disappointed by their lineup of talented comedians.

Sporting Events

Attend sporting events like the United Cup tennis tournament or horse racing at Royal Randwick.

4. Shop Till You Drop

Sydney is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury brands to unique local finds. Here are my go-to shopping spots:

Westfield Sydney: The largest shopping mall in the city, featuring over 350 stores.
Queen Victoria Building (QVB): A historic building with high-end and affordable shops.
Paddington Shopping Street: Perfect for boutique shopping.
Bondi Junction Mall: Great for fashion and lifestyle brands.

For luxury shopping, explore the CBD and Pitt Street Mall, or head to Newtown for unique, independent items.

5. Indulge in Sydney’s Culinary Scene

Sydney’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors, from fine dining to healthy cafes. Some of my favorite dinner spots include Surry Hills restaurants, while Bondi and Manly offer fantastic healthy lunch options. Check out my detailed guides for the best restaurants and healthy cafes in Sydney:

6. Take a Day Trip to Wollongong

Drive south along the Grand Pacific Drive, stopping at the Sea Cliff Bridge and Stanwell Tops Lookout. In Wollongong, visit North Wollongong Beach, the Wollongong Lighthouse, and the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere. For lunch, I would check out Lower East Café or Lee and Me. End with sunset at Mount Keira Lookout.

7. Explore Sydney’s Natural Beauty

North Beaches

If you have a car, explore the northern beaches like Manly, Dee Why, Avalon, and Palm Beach. Don’t miss the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail Walk and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse for stunning views.

Watsons Bay and Hornby Lighthouse

For a relaxing day out, visit Watsons Bay and take a short walk to Hornby Lighthouse for panoramic views of the harbour.

8. Discover Sydney’s Vibrant Neighborhoods

The Rocks: Historic cobblestone streets and weekend markets.
Surry Hills: Trendy cafes and restaurants.
Newtown: Street art, live music, and eclectic bars.
Kirribilli: Walk across the Harbour Bridge for stunning views of the Opera House.
Elizabeth Bay: Harborside charm.
Potts Point: Elegant dining.
Circular Quay: Iconic harbour hub (a bustling waterfront area with views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, featuring ferries, dining, and entertainment).
Darling Harbour: Vibrant waterfront area (a lively area with museums, restaurants, shopping, and family-friendly attractions by the water).
Barangaroo: Urban waterfront with great restaurants.

9. Visit Museums and Art Galleries

Many of Sydney’s museums offer free entry on certain days. Don’t miss:

Art Gallery of New South Wales
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
White Rabbit Gallery
Museum of Sydney

10. Annual Events and Festivals

Plan your trip around Sydney’s annual events like Vivid Sydney, the Sydney Festival, and Westpac Open Air Movies.

11. Wine Tasting in Hunter Valley

Take a day trip to Hunter Valley for wine tasting. I highly recommend Tyrrell's Wines for their exceptional Semillons.

12. Explore the Blue Mountains

A day trip to the Blue Mountains is perfect for nature lovers. Enjoy scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage-listed region just outside Sydney, known for its dramatic cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, cascading waterfalls, and iconic landmarks like the Three Sisters rock formation.

13. Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, check out Darling Harbour’s amazing playground or hire a reliable babysitter from Little Lovelies for a night out.

Sydney is a city that never fails to impress. Whether you’re exploring its natural beauty, indulging in its culinary delights, or soaking up its vibrant culture, there’s always something new to discover. I hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip to this incredible city. Happy travels! :)