When people think Sydney, Australia, they think of the opera house or 42 Wallaby Way from Finding Nemo. I know that’s what I think of at least haha. But this city has so much to offer and is a great city to come to when traveling through Australia. There is lots to do, places to eat, and sights to see. Below are my top things I would recommend in Sydney when visiting down under:

The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

If you have a day with some great weather, you like being outside, and you want some exercise, I highly recommend doing the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. We did it the opposite way and ended in Bondi, but either way the beaches and views are fantastic. So don’t forget your camera! Also be sure to wear a swim suit as you pass multiple beaches, coves, and pools to that you can stop at to take a dip. I finally got to swim in the one of those pools that have the waves crashing in on them from the ocean. The water was freezing and I went numb, but I didn’t care.

The Sydney Opera House

This world famous and easily recognizable opera house is a must-see when in Sydney. The architecture is unique and kind of reminds me of an armadillo. I personally did not go inside the opera house, but this venue holds performances, tours, and you can grab a drink/meal there. Click here for more information.

Whale Watching

I LOVE the ocean and all the animals in it, so when I found out there were whale watching tours, I had to go. Plus we got a great deal on Groupon. For one, the views you get leaving the harbor and along the coast are worth it in and of itself. We got lucky and saw whales along with a pod of dolphins playing around our boat.

Eat and Drink at The Squire’s Landing

The Squire’s Landing is a great place to hang out, eat, and drink. Plus you get a view of the Opera House which is AMAZING! Especially at night (see picture above in the opera house portion). Be sure to pick a spot by the windows. This place also has an outdoor area to sit at when it’s warm out! Side note: I was disappointed to find out that Australia can get pretty chilly and I had to sit inside.

A beer with a view

The Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens are not only beautiful to look at, but it is also a great place to spend the day having a picnic, reading a book, or throwing a ball around. The gardens are peaceful and the perfect spot to relax in the outdoors. Being in the gardens didn’t even feel like we were in a city anymore.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney is known for its opera house and of course the harbour bridge! You can either walk across it or if you’re brave enough, you can climb the arch! Since we were on a budget, we stuck to the free option and just walked across it. Still an amazing view and I honestly didn’t feel like I missed out not doing the climb.

Darling Harbour

Be sure to take stroll through Darling Harbour and experience all it has to offer. Visit the Chinese Gardens, the Maritime Museum, or please your tastebuds at Cockle Bay Wharf. This harbour has great views of the city skyline. This area of the city is great for people of all ages and is a great spot to explore with you family.

Visit Circular Quay

While exploring Sydney, be sure to stroll through Circular Quay. This is the main ferry hub of the city and it is near the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. The best part about this area it is filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes. Many of them have outdoor seating to enjoy the weather and the views. You can spend a long time just wandering this area and never get bored.

Breweries

Calling all beer lovers! While in Sydney, visit some of the breweries to grab a drink and enjoy meeting some locals. All Hands Brewing House and The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel are two that I would recommend and greatly enjoyed.

View of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge

If you’re traveling through Australia be sure to check out my other blogs about my Great Ocean Road tour, cage diving with great whites, and scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef!