Sydney: A Guide to the Vibrant Harbour City

Whether you're a museum buff, adrenaline junkie or beachgoer, Sydney has something for everyone. Its walkability and efficient public transit allow you to fill your days with everything you could hope for.

Australian Museum - Australia’s oldest museum and a great place to spend the day. Learn about the unique culture, science and nature of the land down under. Entry is free!

Australian National Maritime Museum - A fascinating museum with great insight into life in the Pacific, and home to great historical artifacts. Our favorite part was getting to jump aboard the onsite vessels like the HMB Endeavour and take a look below deck!

Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk - One of the most iconic things to do in Sydney, this walk has no shortage of great views to marvel at. Enjoy beautiful cliff-top scenery, take a dip in the ocean and stop at one of the many cafes for a fuel-up.

Sydney Fish Market - A great place to take a stroll, this market is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Admire the working wharf, learn something new at the seafood school or shop til you drop at the many retailers.

Hyde Park Barracks - Take a glimpse inside this former prison and learn about the lives of the orphans and convicts who lived here in the 1800s.

BridgeClimb Sydney - This one is for the adrenaline junkies! Summit the world’s largest steel arch and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Taronga Zoo - Visit some of Australia’s most iconic species, like the koala and red kangaroo, at this lovely conservation center easily accessible from the CBD (central business district).

Luna Park - Indulge your inner child at this iconic amusement park featuring Art Deco architecture and plenty of fun rides.

Day trips

The Blue Mountains - This deluxe tour includes a ride on the Scenic Cableway and no shortage of stunning Blue Mountain views! A great way to spend a day outside of the city.

Manly Beach - Take the ferry from the Sydney CBD over to Manly Beach. Enjoy the day sunbathing on the beach, strolling through the shopping area and enjoying cocktails at a rooftop bar. Take the ferry back right after sunset to enjoy spectacular views of Sydney’s city lights.

Around every corner in Sydney is a lovely place to eat, unique cocktail bar or vibrant cafe. Here are my favorites:

• The Walrus Sydney CBD - A charming cafe with excellent breakfast and lunch options.

• Bourke Street Bakery - Near the waterfront, this cafe is great for a coffee and has a variety of unique pie options — I liked the "beef, beer, bacon and cheesy mash."

• Pyrmont Bridge Hotel - Near the Maritime Museum, this bistro is great for a nice lunch and people-watching from the rooftop deck.

• Uncle Ming's - A great place for dinner or just cocktails, this dim basement gives opium den vibes with a great menu featuring dim sum and specialty drinks.

• The Bavarian York St. - For those interested in a hearty meal, this European-centric restaurant offers great dishes like schnitzel and pork knuckles in a family-friendly environment.

• The Baxter Inn - Named one of the top 100 cocktail bars in the world, this speakeasy specializes in unique cocktails and top-shelf whiskey. We loved the Prohibition vibe!

• The Lobo - We loved this Caribbean-centric rum bar in the heart of Sydney - try a rum flight!

• Palmer & Co. - This 1920s-themed cocktail bar boasts great decor, unique cocktails and excellent service.

• Opera Bar Sydney - The perfect place for a sunset happy hour, this bar has great views of the iconic Opera House and a wonderful atmosphere!

• O Bar and Dining - The perfect spot for a celebratory dinner in Sydney, this fine-dining restaurant rotates and offers spectacular views of the city alongside gourmet dishes.

• Bar Totti’s - Our single favorite meal in Sydney, this casual Italian eatery is best enjoyed family-style. The bread and tomatoes are to die for!

Manly Beach food & drink recs

• The Cumberland - Unassuming speakeasy with excellent cocktails and a great menu — we loved the cheese board and Sydney rock oysters.

• Miami Rice Manly - Located in the Hotel Steyne right on the waterfront, this rooftop bar offers great views of the beach and a variety of food and drink options.

• 4 Pines Brewpub Manly - Right near the ferry terminal, this craft brew pub has a variety of great beers and casual fare.