“G’day, Moyte. Welcome to Sidders…”

Sydney is found in the state of New South Wales on the East coast roughly 545 miles (878 kms) North of Melbourne and 567 miles (914 kms) South of Brisbane.

I always aim to book a window seat for your flight to Sydney.

I have been several times and I never tire of the view. It’s an amazing city to approach by air either by day or night.  

​

Sydney belongs to the exclusive club of cities that generate excitement. At the end of a marathon flight I can’t wait to see those yachts suspending on the dark water and the sails of the Opera House glistening in the sun.  

Sydney is a cosmopolitan city surrounded by iconic beaches, world heritage sites, and acclaimed wine regions. Besides being Australia’s largest city, Sydney is also its most visited. With an incredible variety of attractions and sights to see, including the very famous Bondi and Manly beaches, it is easy to see why people come here and stay a while—try to stay at least a week if you can – there is a lot to do in Sydney. It is worth a long stay.

Check out this really cool website that offers live views of Sydney Harbour https://webcamsydney.com

---

What Does Sydney Offer?

So, if you find yourself with a week or more in Sydney, the burning question is: what are you really going to do with that time? Let’s face it, if your schedule is tight, you’re going to have to make some tough choices about what’s worth your while.

To help here are some top points to consider:-

CIRCULAR QUAY

You will hear or read a lot about Circular Quay. If you haven’t been to Sydney before it’s hard to establish what this area is or looks like. In a sentence it’s everything down and around the harbour front from The Rocks District to the Opera House. It’s a busy spot with lots going on from street acts to the constant movement of ferries out from their numerous wharf’s. It is served very well by Circular Quay train station and by using the ‘L2’ red tram.

Circular Quay is the main ferry terminus for pretty much anywhere accessible by ferry. Ferry timetables are posted at each pier along with the prices to any said destination. Either use the Opal system or a bank card and tap in and out of each stop you make.

SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE

The bridge, a magnificent creation built in 1932 as part of a bold government employment initiative during the Great Depression, stands as a proud testament to resilience and creativity. Its steel frame has evolved into a breathtaking icon, representing the very heart of the city. While guided tours that take you up to the bridge’s stunning heights cost around AU$373 (GB£180), there’s a delightful alternative—it’s absolutely free to stroll or cycle across, rewarding you with unparalleled panoramic views of the sparkling harbour and the majestic Opera House.

Alternatively, do what also did on a much cheaper scale and catch the train over to Luna park.

I had an incredible experience during the bridge climb.  Whilst trying to calm a friend who was afraid of heights at the apex of the bridge a cruise ship sailed underneath us.  To book a Bridge Climb CLICK HERE. 

PLEASE NOTE:  before you are allowed to access the bridge climb you be given a short medical, including a breathalyser test.

THE ROCKS DISTRICT

The Rocks is the oldest part of Sydney and is found by the foot of Sydney Harbour Bridge. With its narrow lanes, fine colonial buildings, sandstone churches, and Australia’s oldest pubs, this neighbourhood is where Sydney grew when the British first landed.  

The Rocks’ weekend markets, art museums, street entertainment, restaurants, and beautiful views of the harbour, Opera House, and bridge make this is one of the coolest areas of the city. I love heading up to the Sydney Observatory Hill Park for a good view of the city, wandering the harbour promenade, and hitting the bars at night. 

Some Places To Stop And Eat

If you have time make a stop for lunch at the Endeavour Tap Room. It offers great toasted sandwiches and burgers whilst watching the world pass by. Or if a drink is what you’d prefer opposite the Tap Room is Munich Brauhaus that offers pints of cold beer in huge glasses! If you’re looking for something sweeter then consider the Pancakes on the Rocks. It offers delicious pancakes in all manner of flavours.

If you really want to soak up the Colonial Rocks vibe then have a beer at ‘Fortune of War‘. It’s a very small pub that offers local ales with occasional live music. The pub dates back to 1828.

Cadmans Cottage Historic Site – is an interesting area down by the harbourfront. Cadmans Cottage is the second oldest building in Sydney and was built in the early 1800s. It has housed several uses being a government building and a naval office. Adjacent to Cadmans Cottage is Bethel Street and its steps. This is the point were the first settlers made land in 1788.

MANLEY BEACH

Sydney isn’t just about beaches; it’s a hotbed of world-class surfing that attracts thrill-seekers from all corners. With its sun-soaked days and balmy weather, the city has cultivated a vibrant beach culture that draws locals to the shore like moths to a flame every weekend.

From Palm Beach and Manly in the north to the famous Bondi and Coogee in the south, Sydney has a beach for everyone. All the beaches are easy to get to via public transportation or car and there are tons of restaurants and surf shops around, too! My favourite beaches are Manly (wide and beautiful) and Bronte (small and quiet).

The ferry ride to Manly sets you back around AU$12.50 (GB£7.45) from Wharf 3 at Circular Quay, but let’s be honest—it’s worth every cent. You’ll be dazzled by jaw-dropping views of the harbour, the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the renowned Opera House. This isn’t just any boring commute. It’s a stunning 30-minute ride that drops you right in the heart of one of the city’s most exhilarating hotspots. Manly isn’t merely a destination; it’s a legend famous for its sprawling beach, massive waves, thrilling surf culture, and an electrifying nightlife that rivals any city in the world.

BONDI BEACH

Bondi Beach although it isn’t too far it’s not the easiest of places to get to. If you were to mention Sydney to someone no doubts Bondi Beach would be one of the first thoughts someone may have. I have to admit I was a little disappointed with Bondi Beach. I found it a little dirty, over populated and nothing like I thought it would be. However, if you haven’t been to Sydney before then it is definitely worth the visit.

To get to Bondi by train (which I did) from Central Station catch the ‘T4’ train to Bondi Junction Station (6 stops). It takes around 15 minutes. From here there is a representative that will shepherd you to the bus stop that will complete the rest of the journey. The buses are frequent so your wait will be minimal. Catch the 380, 381, 382 or 333. The bus journey is roughly 15 minutes. Like all transport in Sydney use your travel card/contactless bank card or your Opal card to tap in/out at each point.

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

Just as iconic as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House boasts a striking white-shelled roof that demands attention. An architectural marvel and a true feat of engineering, it’s not just a pretty face.

For a mere AU$40 (GB£24), embark on a guided tour that will open your eyes to the monumental challenges behind its design and construction. And if you think a captivating show is out of your reach, think again—tickets are surprisingly reasonable, hovering around AU$45 (GB£28-30). Don’t miss your chance to experience this cultural gem!

OPERA HOUSE BAR

adjacent to the Opera House on one side and the Harbour Bridge on the other, this perfectly positioned terrace manages to marry the laid-back and the sophisticated atmosphere of the harbour. Why not have a few drinks before taking in a show? Just be conscious like all major tourist spots drinks/food can be at a premium, but the night view does compensate.

DARLING HARBOUR AREA

Darling Harbour is a walkable harbour fringed in an arc by big hotels, big bars like The Hard Rock Cafe, smaller independent bars and restaurants as well as an aquarium. Although it isn’t the cheapest of spots in Sydney it does offer some great Happy Hours from 4pm onwards. There is a great little cafe called Blackbird Cafe located on the upper level next to the Cockle Bay Wharf water fountain. It’s a funky bar that offers a great Happy Hour cocktail menu and delicious bar food. The Blackbird Cafe is reasonably priced too.

Another great place to stop and have lunch or evening dinner is ‘Baia The Italian’ restaurant on the same side as The Blackbird Cafe. It offers a great lunch menu for a great price or a set 3 course evening Steak dinner with wine for AU$35 (GB18). The service is pretty great too with friendly staff all from Italy.

KINGS CROSS AND OXFORD ROAD DISTRICTS

If you’re itching to hit the town without draining your wallet, Kings Cross is your haven. Here, the beer flows without the sting on your pocket, and the food, while not gourmet, does the job. The notorious World Bar is the epicenter of the action, but fair warning: keep your wits about you, as it can get a little unruly. I stayed just a stone’s throw away from the Oxford Road strip, and it was a godsend for snagging a breakfast that won’t leave your bank account in shambles—something nearly impossible to find in Sydney.

You know when you have reached Oxford Road main drag when you see the huge neon Coca-Cola sign. Just be wary though of certain areas within Kings Cross as you will soon discover its own ‘Red Light District’ too.

If you prefer the another lively night head to the Gay district of Oxford Road.  Here are trendy bars like ‘Stonewall’ where you can sip long drinks in the early evening sunshine. Food at Stonewall is surprisingly good, plentiful and cheap.

TORONGA ZOO

Take the ferry to Bradleys Head, Mosman.  The Zoo is located 12 minutes from Circular Quay by ferry or a short bus/train trip from the city or North Sydney. Great discounts are offered with combined public transport and zoo entry tickets!  For more information click here

SKY TOWER EYE

Twice as high as the Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Tower Eye offers amazing panoramic views of the city from its Skywalk at the top. At AU$29 (GB£15) it is cheaper and easier than climbing the bridge itself, and the views are equally as good. There are various experiences available to purchase. Check out the Sky Tower Eye website.

JEFFREY STREET WHARF AND LUNA PARK

If you have time catch the ferry from Circular Quay, Wharf 6 (costs approx AU$7. GB£4) to Jeffrey Street Wharf. This stop is the nearest for Luna Park at Milson’s Point.

Jeffery Street Wharf offers the most panoramic views of Sydney from across the harbour were the pathways are lined by Birds of Paradise flowers.

Luna Park is a great day out with funfair rides galore. Prices start from around AU$44 (GB£26) for a day pass. Use this link

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

The ancient sandstone of this national park has been weathered into gorges lined by steep cliffs and separated by narrow ridges. Some activities in Blue Mountains National Park include seeing the magnificent rock formation of the Three Sisters or hiking along the paths that offer excellent views of the valley, sheer rock walls, tumbling waterfalls, and magnificent forests.

The park is free to visit and you can get there by train from Central Station on a double decker train that takes two hours to Mount Victoria Station. Fares are roughly AU$25 (GB£14.50). If you want to hike further afield, it’s best to stay overnight!

---

GETTING AROUND SYDNEY

Sydney’s transport system is made up of trains, buses, and ferries. It’s easy to get around!

Bus – Like other major cities in Australia, bus fares depend on the number of zones you travel with adult fares beginning at AU$2.80 (GB£1.40). Fares also vary slightly based on the time of day . The bus system is very comprehensive. Many will travel from Wynyard and Circular Quay.

You will need an Opal card or a Contactless bank card/Travel card to use the system, but if you get a longer pass you’ll save money on each trip. The card is free, you just have to load it with money, and there’s a maximum fare charge of AU$1 (GB£7.60) per day; and on Sundays, a maximum of AU$2.70 (GB£1.35). That means you can go anywhere in the metro system on a Sunday and you’ll never pay more than AU$2.70!

Train – The City Circle is Sydney’s train that runs in a loop, stopping at Central, Museum, St. James, Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay and Martin Place. It’s the best way to get around the city centre! Like the bus, you can use Opal car, Contactless bankes card/Travel Card to pay for your ride. Train prices are slightly more expensive than the bus. A single fare starts AU$3.55 (GB£1.80) with the Opal card.

Ferry – Ferries run around Sydney Harbour from Circular Quay to a handful of destinations, including Manly, Luna Park and Taronga Zoo. You can use your Opal card, contactless bank card/travel card for ferry services, and fares start at AU$7.40 (GB£3.75). Otherwise, you can purchase tickets from the wharf.

Taxi – Taxis are fairly easy to flag down but expensive. If you have Uber then use them. Transportation around the city about 40% cheaper than a city taxi.

Other Links: AUSTRALIA HOME PAGE | DESTINATIONS PAGE | MAIN HOME |