Curator’s statement
Sydney is such a vibrant city and a great -year round- destination. Traveling alone, with kids, for business or as part of a once-in-a lifetime trip to Australia, this city has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Discover beautiful beaches, mountains (a couple of hours' drive), neighborhood markets, art, architecture, shopping, great food and (my favorite) coffee places everywhere!
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Where to stay in Sydney
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Things to do in Sydney
Beaches
Sydney has countless, stunning beaches but these two are a must-see and not too far from the city center:
Manly beach - North of the city and easy to reach in about thirty minutes by ferry from Circular Quay.
Tip: taking a ferry is also a great way to see the famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the water.
To use the public transport in Sydney, you just tap in/out using your credit card, so convenient!
Bondi beach - Almost a synonym for Sydney, this beach is famous for its surfers, Bondi Rescue, half-moon shaped, white, sandy beach and the Icebergs pool.
Tip: if you feel Bondi is too busy and/or you love a nice hike, then walk towards the South along the cliffs (there’s a designated path) to Bronte and Coogee. With every turn you’ll discover another beautiful bay and beach.
Markets
These weekend (outdoor) markets are my favorite.
Paddington Market (Oxford Street) - This is a Saturday market where you will find a lot of local/Australian made jewelry, homeware, clothes as well as a food market with fresh produce from nearby farms and local bakeries.
Bondi Markets - Combine a Bondi beach day with browsing the Farmers’ market on Saturdays and the artisan market full with stands of local entrepreneurs on Sundays.
Parks
Sydney has lots of greenery. Some centrally located and fantastic parks are:
Centennial park - Perfect for a walk, run, bike ride or exploring the playground and feeding the ducks
Royal Botanic Garden - This park is beautifully located, and is perfect for a walk, picnic and admiring the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from “Mrs Macquarie’s Chair,” view point.
Tip: in the park you’ll find the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the entrance is free!
Transport
I loved using an e-bike (helmet provided or BYO), you’ll find these everywhere and it’s such a great way to explore the city. Be mindful to drive on the left!
Public transportation is very easy to use as well, it includes the many ferry connections. Either buy the Opal smart card or just tap in/out using your credit card.
Day Trips
If you have more than just a weekend to explore, consider a (day) trip to the Blue Mountains. Experience sweeping mountain views, rain forest, waterfalls, the scenic railway (steepest passenger railway in the world!) and cableway and a river cruise back to Sydney. With so much to see, I can help you find a tour that suits you best!
Places to eat & drink in Sydney
Zey Queen street (Queen St.) - A café on Queen street, Woollahra (dotted with many nice boutiques and places to eat) with a lively sunny terrace during the day and delicious Turkish Dinner Nights from Wed-Sat.
Shuk Bondi (Mitchell St) - North Bondi beach, this is where the locals go for amazing coffee, pastries, breakfast and lunch with Middle Eastern/Mediterranean inspired dishes.
Plane Tree Cafe (Ocean St, Woollahra) - This is such a nice, leafy neighborhood and this cafe has a beautiful greenhouse for covered seating and courtyard with a Mediterranean feel for amazing breakfast and lunch.
Big Bite on Pitt (Pitt St) - While shopping and exploring Sydney, this is a great stop for delish sandwiches (homemade bread!) or wraps. Order take-out and have a picnic in Hyde Park just across the street.
The Grounds of Alexandria (Huntley St, Alexandria) - Former pie factory turned into an inspiring, colorful place full with flowers and plants, activities for kids, some shops and a beautiful restaurant where the theme changes every season.
Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel (Marine Parade, Watsons Bay) - Easy to reach by ferry, in a small cove, this hotel offers a great restaurant, spread over different levels. Such a lovely waterfront location, great cocktails and food including pizza from their woodfired oven.
La Calita (Campbell Parade, Bondi) - Small restaurant with superb quality Mexican food. Direct view of Bondi beach and super friendly service.
Promenade Bondi (Bondi Pavillion) - Right in the middle of the famous Bondi beach. Upscale restaurant and large terrace, offering true seaside vibes and incredible food and service.
Travel Advisor
Marisca Kooij
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Sydney. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Taylor Carvalho’s guide, A Local's Guide to Sydney.