Sydney has several breathtaking landmarks that are among the best in Sydney, from the famous Opera House sails to the golden beaches of Bondi Beach. Take a look at the city’s must-see sights and cross these must-do activities off your bucket list.
Top Attractions that are the Best in Sydney
The top tourist destinations that are the best in Sydney are listed below and should not be missed by travelers:
Art Gallery of New South Wales
The Art Gallery of New South Wales hosts approximately 40 exhibitions a year and features extensive collections of Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, European, and Asian art, so there is always something new to explore. The gallery is only a 15min walk from the city centre and admission is free, as are the daily tour guides. Visit the on-site café for lunch or coffee, or stay late on Wednesdays until 10 p.m. for Art After Hours, which features celebrity talks, musical performances, and other special events.
Bondi Beach
The well-known Bondi is popular for its sparkling blue water, hip restaurants, and laid-back beach culture. Swim in the famous ocean pool at Icebergs, have a fruity cocktail at Hotel Ravesis, take lessons at Let’s Go Surfing to learn how to surf waves, or browse the farmer’s markets on Saturdays. Of course, one of the most memorable ways to take in the area’s splendor is to walk along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. After winding past Tamarama Beach and Bronte Beach and culminating in the stunning town of Coogee, the scenic 6km route winds its way along sandstone cliffs, providing unhindered views of the ocean. Along the way, you will also be able to see Sculpture by the Sea, the largest annual free outdoor sculpture display in the world, in October and November.
Chinatown
There are Chinatowns in other major cities outside Sydney, but Sydney’s is superior to the others in size, quality, and amenities because of the Chinese immigrants who began coming here in the 1800s. Everything is available here, from large Asian grocery stores and tiny specialty shops to fine dining establishments concealed away and noodle bars nestled in obscure food halls. Not to mention karaoke at midnight and bustling markets. The Chinese Garden of Friendship, the Paddys Markets, and the gourmet destinations Mamak and Gumshara are all must-sees.
Manly and Shelly Beach
Discover Australia’s underwater world without ever leaving Manly. From cockatoo fish to leatherjackets, sea urchins (oh sea urchins), and tiny pomfrets, you can see it all here. Every day, Dive Centre Manly also offers Snorkel Safaris at three of the area’s most well-known locations. It helps bringing guests on underwater explorations. As you navigate through the calm bay’s kelp and seagrass, the guide will point out various marine animals. There are several marine animals, like crimson banded wrasse, goatfish, and pygmy leatherjackets. Moreover, swimming around to the boulders where the drop is between three and twelve meters, you will notice tennis ball-sized jellyfish. You may also scoop up to observe the light currents passing through them.
Museum of Contemporary Art
The MCA is Australia’s premier museum for displaying, understanding, and collecting modern art. It is located in the old Maritime Services building on Circular Quay. There are almost 4,000 pieces by indigenous artists—with a particular focus on the works of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. The gallery also presents a rotating schedule of shows. You can enjoy modern Australian cuisine at the rooftop MCA Cafe and Sculpture Terrace. It has breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour.
Royal Botanic Garden
Nestled next to the Sydney Opera House and encircling the harbor, the 30-hectare Royal Botanic Garden is a stunning refuge. It is present within the bustling metropolis of Sydney. Moreover, it has a rich history that dates back to 1816. This garden is home to an exceptional collection of plants from both overseas and Australia. In the verdant parklands punctuated with antipodean accents, take a stroll and pack a picnic. You can also attend one of the many unforgettable events, or sign up for a free guided tour.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
One of the most recognizable landmarks in the world is the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It spans one of the best natural harbors on the planet. And it is the biggest steel arch bridge in the world. Locals refer to it affectionately as the “Coathanger”. Moreover, it is an essential feature of the city that you can stroll or bike across and even climb to the top for breathtaking views.
Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is a world-class operational opera house. It is also an architectural wonder present on picturesque Sydney Harbour. More than 1,600 events take place annually on the famous sails. The events range from modern dance to symphonic music, inventive theater, classical ballet, and, of course, magnificent opera productions. Every day, there are tours with the guide of the UNESCO-listed building in English, Mandarin, French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Opera Bar, on the other hand, has the greatest view in town. It lets you enjoy cocktails while taking in views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You will love the same views dining alfresco at the nearby House Canteen.
Sydney Tower Eye
Reaching the highest point above Sydney, the 309-meter-tall Sydney Tower Eye offers stunning 360-degree views. The views extend to the far-off Blue Mountains from the golden beaches of the Eastern Suburbs on a clear day. The visit also brings you to the observation deck, which is 250 meters above ground. It is after you have watched a short film that offers you a bird’s-eye perspective of the city throughout the 4D experience. For those seeking an unparalleled view of the tower and an adrenaline rush, this is a perfect place. Moreover, there is the guided Skywalk that circles the tower around an outer ledge. Bar 83 is the place to go.
Taronga Zoo
The renowned Taronga Zoo is only 12 minutes from the city by ferry. It is home to approximately 4,000 animals, including rare and endangered alien species as well as local Australian wildlife. Open all year round, daily keeper talks and shows are also included in the admission price. You can make reservations for the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga. It is an eco-retreat present away within the zoo, for a stay unlike any other, making it the best in Sydney.
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