Sydney’s ever popular attractions

Sydney is known to be Australia’s harbour city. Frequent travelers usually talk about its famous surfing beaches, the iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, and its gardens and national parks, but to locals, it’s so much more than that. From neighborhood classics to art and history hubs, we’ll let you in on what’s new and hip in this part of Australia. Here’s your deeply local, richly curated Sydney travel guide for 2025!

Why Visit Sydney in 2025?

The short answer is because there’s always something new to explore in Sydney! Sure, you’ve got the must-visits on your list– but if you’re genuinely looking for something new and exciting, this is the perfect year to fly to Sydney and experience its ever-changing beauty every year!

When is the Best Time to Visit Sydney?

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You can visit Sydney anytime– but if you plan your activities based on the weather, we highly recommend visiting Sydney during its summer months, from December to February. It’s the best time to hit the beach, explore its nature parks, and just generally enjoy the outdoors– but do remember that it’s also the peak season; meaning more crowds (which won’t be a problem if you book your activities in advance!)

If you’re here to visit for the festivals and celebrations, March to May and September to November are good months to visit too. It’s autumn and spring respectively, making Sydney as picturesque as ever. The weather is good, and exploring indoors and outdoors are ideal too.

Meanwhile, the winter months of June to August are great for trying indoor activities, such as museum-hopping and visiting art galleries. It’s usually cold and rainy in these months, but nevertheless, Sydney is still worth discovering in these months. 

Check out this historical museum and get your admission tickets here:

How to Get to Sydney (Flights & Transportation Tips)

Flights

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There are several airports in Sydney, but the most popular one catering to both local and international visitors is the Sydney Airport (Kingsford Smith Airport), located 8 km south of the CBD. It’s the primary hub for the flagship airline Qantas, and it also serves 43 international and 46 domestic flights, making it one of the busiest airports in the world. 

Travel conveniently with an airport transfer from Sydney Airport to your destination:

Transportation

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Getting around Sydney is fairly easy– public transport is accessible as well as private car transfers.

By car: it takes around 25 minutes to reach the CBD from the airport. You can book private car transfers on KKday, so you can easily go to your destination in a matter of minutes.

By taxi/rideshare: you can get a taxi cab in front of the terminals or pre-book your rideshare, which usually costs AUD 45 to 55, and find them in designated parking areas.

By train: You can also take the Airport Link, which connects the Sydney Airport to the CBD in just 13 minutes. It’s the fastest way to get to the city, and it can be accessed from the terminal’s arrivals area. To get on the train, you need to purchase an Opal Card, which is a transport card. You can also use your card for contactless payment or buy a single ticket. The fares start at AUD 15 for children and AUD 17 for adults.

Ferries: You can take the ferries to get to Sydney’s popular tourist destinations. Board the ferries at Circular Quay to go to Taronga Zoo, Shark Island, and many other tourist spots!

Buses and trains: These are public transport options that you could take in Sydney. It allows you to hop on and hop off easily to go from one attraction to another, and it’s also a cheaper alternative compared to rideshares!

Bikes: Sydney is big on bikes– you can find a lot of bike rentals around the city, so if you’re feeling adventurous, go find a bike rental near you in Sydney to get started on your fun exploration!

Where to Stay in Sydney

Sydney is very accessible to a lot of places, so you need not worry about where to stay! Check out the most awesome accommodations from budget hostels to luxury hotels so you can book your place accordingly.

Best Areas to Stay for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your visit to Sydney, we suggest that you book accommodation nearby the attractions you want to visit. Whether you prefer beach views, kid-friendly attractions, coffee and creative hubs, or luxury spots, we know just the right places for you.

Circular Quay 

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For first-time visitors, it’s practical to book accommodation near this area where attractions are most accessible. When you choose to stay here, you’ll be near the ferry hub, the Sydney Opera Hub, and the Harbour Bridge!

Get tickets to the best Sydney attractions here:

Surry Hills 

via Surry Hills News’ website

For laid-back travelers, book an accommodation in this area so you can be just a few steps away from cool cafes, art galleries, and heritage hubs.

Bondi Beach 

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Love to wake up with an overlooking view of the beach? There are many hotels near Bondi Beach where you can enjoy the beachfront anytime of the day!

Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury Hotel Picks

Here are some of the tourist-friendly accommodation picks in Sydney that fit right into your budget:

Budget: YHA Sydney Harbour

via YHA’s website

This budget hostel is a backpacker-friendly hostel that’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers. It has the standard amenities of a room, with views of the city and harbor. On the rooftop, you get views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The hotel has private and co-living rooms, as well as a rooftop bar, cafe, and guest activities for everyone to enjoy. 

Location: 110 Cumberland Street, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Check in: 2 p.m. Check out: 10 a.m.
Website: https://www.yha.com.au/hostels/nsw/sydney-surrounds/sydney-harbour/ 
Price range: around AUD 166 

Mid-Range: Sydney Harbour Hotel

via Sydney Harbour Hotel’s website

Located in The Rocks, this hotel is a family-friendly accommodation that you can book in the heart of CBD. It’s the perfect starting point for your Sydney adventures, with views of the attractions, nearby transportation hub, and surrounding spots and restaurants. Hotel rooms are well-equipped and amenities are available, plus there are restaurants and lobby bars for the ultimate relaxation. 

Location: 55 George St, The Rocks, NSW, Australia
Check in: 2 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
Website: https://sydneyharbourhotel.com/ 
Price range: around AUD 220

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

via Four Seasons Sydney’s website

This luxury hotel is your best bet for top notch accommodation in Sydney. It’s situated in The Rocks, and is near all the must-visit spots in the city. This five-star hotel offers its guests the best room options, fine dining restaurants and bars, spa, fitness facilities, pool, and a lot more facilities. Signature experiences are also available to book, from private getaways to complimentary services perfect for that much-needed vacation. 

Location: 199 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
Check in: 3 p.m. Check out: 11 a.m.
Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/sydney/ 
Price range: around AUD 425

Sydney Travel Guide: Top Things to Do in Sydney

Exciting experiences await in Sydney, and for those who are clueless and curious about the things to do in this fun city, check out the must-try experiences below to make the most out of your trip here!

Must-See Landmarks & Attractions

You can’t miss the classics– therefore, don’t forget to add these must-visit tourist attractions, especially for first-time visitors!

Sydney Opera House

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One of the most recognizable landmarks in Sydney, the Sydney Opera House is a top tourist spot that lets you learn about its history and its significance in Sydney. Aside from being a performing arts center, it’s most admired for its unique architecture. People come here to watch several theatrical performances, as well as go to its surrounding restaurants and bars that offer great views of the city. 

Tip: Book Sydney Opera House Official Guided Tour with Dine in Multiple Languages on KKday to get an in-depth guided tour of the attraction, plus indulge in a great meal with a view!

Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Operating Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (or later if there’s a scheduled performance)
Website: https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/

Tour the Sydney Opera House with this package that includes a meal and a multi-language guided tour:

Sydney Tower Eye

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Be on top of the city and see sweeping views of Sydney at the Sydney Tower Eye! Up at the observation deck at 250 meters above ground level, get unobstructed views of the Sydney Opera House, Blue Mountains, Harbour Bridge, and more, including during VIVID Sydney, an annual festival in the city that features light sculptures. 

Location: Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Website: https://www.sydneytowereye.com.au/ 

Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view atop the Sydney Tower Eye. Book tickets here:

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

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If you’re looking for kid-friendly attractions, this is the place to be! Discover around 700 marine species in this aquarium, and meet species local to Australia’s marine life. From sharks to King penguins, dugongs, and the beautiful Great Barrier Reef exhibit, the whole family will surely have an unforgettable trip to this fun marine attraction.

Location: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/sydney/ 

Visit SEA LIFE by getting your tickets from KKday:

Sydney Harbour Bridge

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The Sydney Harbour Bridge isn’t only an attraction, but it’s actually the world’s largest steel arch bridge. As one of the most iconic symbols in Sydney, you should definitely put it on your must-see list because there are so many things to see around here. You can walk and see its best views at Pylon Lookout, take a cruise, bike along the cycleway, or even get to climb via the BridgeClimb– for the ultimate daredevil experience!

Bondi Beach

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Come summer, tourists flock Bondi Beach for its epic waves and to just relax by the beachside. It offers a lot of fun things like surfing classes, yoga, coastal walks, farmer’s markets, restaurants, and bars. If you plan to stay longer, there are accommodations right by the beach for you!

Unique Local Experiences

Want more unique Sydney experiences to do on your vacation? We know just the best tours for you!

Sydney Showboats Dinner Cruise with 3-course Menu & Show

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Travel back to the 1800s in this one-of-a-kind dinner cruise! Witness a cabaret show, enjoy a sumptuous three-course dinner, and see magnificent night views along the Sydney Harbour in this three-hour dinner cruise!

Location: Sydney Harbour, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Duration: 3 hours
Price: AUD 175 (adults 14 years and above); AUD 100 (children)

Experience Sydney like no other with this unforgettable dinner cruise:

Sydney Suburban 1-Day Tour: Blue Mountains & Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park (with City Pickup/Drop-off) | Australia

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Meet Australia’s native animals in this suburban tour! At Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, enjoy feeding Australian quokkas, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils and more and go strolling along the rainforest road! You can also take the mine train to see the Echo Valley, or take the jungle cable car– whatever you want to do, you’re going to love this epic outdoor adventure. 

Tip: Get 15% OFF for bookings & take advantage of this KKday offer!

Location: Blue Mountains National Park, NSW, Australia
Duration: 10 hours
Price: from AUD 152.15

【Instant Confirmation】Blue Mountains Scenic World Unlimited Day Pass | Sydney

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Another outdoor experience in Sydney that you have to try is a trip to Australia’s Blue Mountains National Park. Soak in stunning landscapes as you get the best views on the Scenic Skyway cable car, with a glass floor that gives you unobstructed views of the lush rainforest beneath you!

Location: Violet St Cliff Drive Katoomba NSW 2780 Australia
Price: AUD 61 (adult); AUD 41.73 (children ages 3 to 15)

Book an unlimited day pass to Blue Mountains National Park with KKday:

 [QR Direct Entry] WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo Ticket

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Embark on a thrilling adventure at Wildlife Sydney Zoo! Get up close and personal with koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, platypus, and wombats, and even get to have breakfast with the koalas! It’s a great place to have fun with the kids and let them know the beauty of Australian wildlife!

Location: WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Price: from AUD 48

Book your tour package here:

Where to Eat in Sydney

Aside from attractions, there are also lots of places to eat in Sydney, whatever cuisine you’re craving for and whether you like buffet, cafes, fine dining, or hole-in-the-wall eats!

Local Favourites & Must-Try Dishes

Want to know what the must-eats are in Sydney? Check out what locals recommend:

Sydney rock oyster

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Imagine freshly shucked oysters with a pleasant ocean smell– dip it in a dressing or with vinegar. This seafood staple is a favorite among locals, whether it’s raw or cooked. It’s creamy and sweet to the taste, too.

Meat pie

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Almost all bakeries and patisseries serve meat pie, so you’ll never have a hard time finding this delicious food. It can be eaten as a snack or with sauce, and they even serve vegan options now, too. 

Barramundi

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Another seafood dish not to miss in Sydney is barramundi, a type of fish that’s mild and buttery to taste. It can be grilled, stewed, or steamed. It’s available all year round, but wild-caught ones are available from February to November. 

Best Cafes and Brunch Spots

Sydney’s coffee culture is on another level. So what better way to enjoy this than to look for cool coffee and brunch spots?

Industry Beans

via Industry Beans’ website

Up so early in the morning? Head over to Industry Beans and take a bite of their all-day signature brunch dishes. Not sure what to get? Enjoy their OG Avocado Smash and pair it with a cup of coffee made with freshly roasted beans for the perfect weekday brunch. 

Location: Shop 2/40 York St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Operating Hours: 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Monday to Friday); 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday)
Website: https://industrybeans.com/pages/york-st-cafe 

Quick Brown Fox Eatery

via Quick Brown Fox Eatery’s website

This historic corner cafe in Pyrmont is known for its great food, drinks, and vibe. They have an all-day menu from breakfast favorites to pasta, salads, and burgers, and they even have a kid’s menu. For drinks, expect coffee and tea, and a selection of cocktails and beers. It’s got everything you want and need for your brunch!

Location: 22 Union St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
Operating Hours: 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily
Website: https://quickbrownfoxeatery.com.au/ 

Paramount Coffee Project

via Paramount Coffee Project’s website

If you take your coffee seriously, you’ll love this cafe gem. They take pride in their quality coffee, featuring local and international roasters and everything on their menu is chosen in blind cuppings. For their food, they serve seasonal breakfast and lunch menus made with local produce. It’s a local favorite that you should definitely try!

Location: 80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Operating Hours: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Website: https://www.paramountcoffeeproject.com.au/ 

Getting Around Sydney (Public Transport Tips)

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It’s easy to navigate Sydney like a pro. Just take note of these tips so you can travel from one destination to another, hassle-free!

Get an Opal Card

Having an Opal Card is essential as they use this to pay for transportation fares on trains, buses, and ferries. You can get one in convenience stores or at the airport!

Avoid peak hours

Refrain from traveling from 7 to 9 in the morning, or 4 to 6 in the evening, because public transport is most crowded during these times. 

Tip: Get a luggage delivery so you can start exploring Sydney worry-free and without heavy luggage in tow:

Know the important travel hubs

Depending on your location, it’s helpful to know which transportation hubs will get you to your destination. Know where Central Station, Circular Quay, or Town Hall and Wynyard so you can easily access public transport when you need to. 

Take the ferry!

Sure, buses and trains are easier to access, but don’t miss traveling via ferry– it gets you to your destination and offers you scenic views in one ride! 

Tip: You can also take the hop-on, hop-off bus around Sydney:

Travel Tips for a Sydney First-Timer

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Know all the tips that can help you on your first visit to Sydney! Check out this Sydney travel guide and tips:

Consider getting an eSIM or a pocket WiFi

Not all establishments offer free WiFi, so to stay connected all the time, get yourself an eSIM or pocket WiFi which will be helpful on your trip.

Tip: Get an eSIM for a discount of 30% off with KKday:

Check out free attractions

Did you know that you can visit free attractions in Sydney! If you’re a budget traveler, take note of spots such as Bondi coastal walk, Royal Botanic Garden, or the Art Gallery of NSW which are free to visit!

Watch out for Sydney events

Aside from attractions, Sydney is best known for its annual events. See Vivid Sydney from May to June, which is a festival of lights and music, or come here to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Plan your visit accordingly to get the best spots. 

Book restaurants in advance

Seats fill up fast in Sydney’s famous restaurants, so be sure to book ahead to get the best seats on your must-try restaurants list! 

Plan your trip to Sydney this 2025 by booking activities and experiences with KKday!

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