Exploring the harbour bridge opera house and beyond
From iconic architectural wonders like the Opera House to coastal walks and stretches of beautiful beaches, Sydney offers a wide array of landmarks that need to be on your list to visit.
Sydney, the vibrant capital city of New South Wales in Australia, is a melting pot of cultures, history, and stunning natural beauty. Let’s explore some of the must-see landmarks in Sydney!
1. The Sydney Opera House
📍Bennelong Point, Sydney
The Sydney Opera House is an architectural masterpiece that has become the symbol of Sydney and Australia. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this iconic landmark in Sydney is known for its distinctive sail-shaped roofs. As impressive as it is from the outside, you can also visit the inside.
Either book a ticket to the various performing arts events, including opera, ballet, theater, and music concerts or get an insider’s perspective as you go behind the scenes with this Opera House Backstage Tour.
A visit to this city is incomplete without admiring (and getting that Insta snap!) the stunning beauty of this iconic Sydney landmark – the Sydney Opera House.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
📍Sydney Harbour, Sydney
Another iconic landmark that you have surely heard about before is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, often referred to as the “Coathanger” by the locals. This impressive steel arch bridge spans across Sydney Harbour, connecting the central business district with the North Shore.
You can walk or bike over the bridge or if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can climb the bridge’s arch for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
To truly experience the magnificence of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House, there’s nothing quite like embarking on a helicopter tour of Sydney.
3. Bondi Beach
📍Bondi, Sydney
Bondi Beach is one of Australia’s most famous beaches and a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking sun, surf, and a vibrant beachside atmosphere. This iconic stretch of golden sand offers excellent swimming and surfing opportunities.
One of my favourite thing to do is taking the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee to enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and encounter other beautiful beaches along the way.
There are also plenty of great cafes and little boutiques along the Bondi Beach beachfront that are worth browsing. Drop in at Bondi Icebergs for a drink where you’ll arguably get the best views in all of Sydney.
4. The Rock
📍The Rocks neighbourhood, in the heart of Sydney
The Rocks is a historic neighbourhood nestled at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is the birthplace of modern Sydney and is known for its lovely cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, and charming pubs. Explore the lively weekend markets, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, and delve into the neighbourhood’s rich history by taking a guided walking tour.
When it comes to finding the best place to stay in Sydney, I always recommend The Rocks, as the area has some top-notch hotels. Most of the luxurious accommodation options boasts stunning harbour and Opera House views while being located in a prime location in the heart of the city with easy access to all Sydney landmarks.
5. Royal Botanic Garden
📍5 minutes from the Sydney CBD
Situated in the heart of the city just next to the Opera House, the Royal Botanic Garden offers a peaceful oasis amidst the urban hustle and bustle. This expansive garden showcases a vast collection of plants, flowers, and trees, including some rare and endangered species.
Enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns, take a guided tour, or simply unwind and soak in the natural beauty surrounding you. Head to my favourite spot, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for a picturesque view of the harbour, Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
6. Taronga Zoo
📍Mosman, North Sydney
For a unique wildlife experience, visit Taronga Zoo. Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, this renowned zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from Australia and around the world.
I recommend visiting some of the exhibits, such as the Australian Walkabout where you walk among wallabies, koalas and the happiest animal in the world, the quokka. Head to the giraffe encounter, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge and City Skyline at its backdrop, it’s a sight you’ll surely never forget!
8. Sydney Tower Eye
📍Westfield Sydney in the Sydney CBD
For panoramic views of Sydney, head to the Sydney Tower Eye, the city’s tallest structure, making it an iconic Sydney landmark.
From the observation deck, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the city skyline, the Sydney Harbour, and beyond. For an extra thrill, try the Skywalk, a glass-floor viewing platform that extends outside the tower, allowing you to see the city from a whole new perspective.
9. Darling Harbour
📍Sydney CBD
Darling Harbour is a vibrant waterfront precinct filled with entertainment, dining and leisure activities. This bustling area offers something for everyone but is especially family-friendly.
Visit the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium to marvel at marine life, explore the interactive exhibits at the Australian National Maritime Museum, or catch a movie at the world’s biggest screen at the IMAX Theatre (Note: it’s currently being rebuilt!).
I love all the waterfront restaurants in Darling Harbour, perfect for a sunset drink and dinner and a leisurely stroll along the promenade to soak up the lively atmosphere afterward.
Allow me to also reveal a hidden gem in this area: the Chinese Garden of Friendship. In this tranquil oasis amidst towering skyscrapers, you’ll find shimmering koi ponds, cascading waterfalls, and a peaceful ambiance. The best part? Entry to this serene haven is completely free.
10. Hyde Park
📍Sydney CBD
Hyde Park is a beautiful green space located in the heart of Sydney’s central business district.
It is the oldest public parkland in Australia perfect for a leisurely walk after you’ve done all the exploring on your Sydney itinerary – or shopping at the nearby Pitt Street Mall and the iconic Queen Victoria Building.
Hyde Park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.
11. Circular Quay
📍Sydney CBD
Circular Quay is the bustling transportation hub and a gateway to many of Sydney’s attractions. Book yourself a Sydney Harbour Cruise over lunch or dinner and enjoy stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the water. Circular Quay is also where you take the ferry to the northern neighbourhoods in Sydney, such as Manly.
Once you return, explore the vibrant Circular Quay precinct, which is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
12. Manly Beach
📍Manly, Sydney
Hop on a ferry from Circular Quay and make your way to Manly Beach. This picturesque beach is a favourite among beach lovers and surfers. With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, Manly offers the perfect escape from the city.
Go for a swim, try yourself at surfing, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the coastal vibes. Take a stroll along the Corso, a pedestrian-only boulevard filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
During weekends, the area comes alive with an outdoor market. Moreover, be sure to explore the hidden laneways branching off from the bustling main strip, as they reveal charming hidden stores, cosy cafes, and inviting bars waiting to be discovered.
13. Blue Mountains
📍About a 1-hour drive from Sydney
While not within the immediate vicinity of Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a must-visit destination if you love a day trip outside of the city.
The Greater Blue Mountains Area is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site and will blow you away with its stunning natural beauty, including unique rock formations like the Three Sisters, deep valleys, and dense eucalyptus forests.
Explore scenic walking tracks and enjoy breathtaking views from lookout points such as Echo Point. If you have some extra days, it’s also worth staying in the Blue Mountains for a night or two, as there are many adorable cottages and guest houses right among nature.
14. Barangaroo Reserve
📍Barangaroo, Sydney
Barangaroo Reserve is a relatively newly developed parkland next to Darling Harbour and The Rocks neighbourhood. It combines natural beauty with celebrating indigenous heritage. This waterfront reserve offers scenic walking paths, such as the Wulugul Walk, lots of awesome picnic areas on the man-made hill in the middle, and native gardens.
Barangaroo Reserve is the best place to learn about the area’s Aboriginal heritage through interpretive signage and artworks. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour while embracing the serenity of this urban oasis.
These are just some of the many landmarks that make Sydney one of the best city destinations in the world. You could spend weeks in this city and still not see it all as there are many more hidden gems in Sydney just waiting to be uncovered.
No matter if you’re interested in culture, history, nature, or simply want to enjoy the coastal lifestyle, Sydney has something for everyone.
