G’Day from Sydney!
Ah, Sydney. You’ll fall head over heels in love as soon as you set eyes on that magnificent harbor… it sure is pretty. But it’s more than just nice to look at; this city is also bursting with great things to see and do.
Sydney needs no introduction — it’s the largest and oldest city in Australia and it is known throughout the world for being one of the most livable cities. Baz Luhrmann said, “If Paris is the City of Light, Sydney is the City of Fireworks.” It’s a lively, eclectic place with a booming cultural scene, an abundance of ethnic diversity and a youthful energy.
You’ll have a blast while exploring all the city has to offer. Here are just some things to do in Sydney to make the most of your trip.
Have a Picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens
In 1810 Governor Lachlan Macquarie and his wife had a vision for a lovely swathe of English parkland with a grand house. These days, the Royal Botanic Gardens is all that and more, a green oasis of tranquility in the urban hustle and bustle. Entry is free and the gardens are open daily from 7 a.m.
Volunteer guides offer daily free walking tours at 10:30 a.m., departing from the Information Booth outside of the Garden Shop at the Palm Grove Centre. You’ll learn about the many diverse species that make their home within the park including water dragons, colorful tropical birds, fruit bats and much more.
Hang out in the Rocks
This cool neighborhood, with colonial buildings, narrow lanes and sandstone churches, is the oldest part of the city. It’s where the British first started setting up their businesses and pubs when they landed.
These days it is a hipster hangout and there is always something interesting happening, from street entertainment to art museum openings to weekend markets. It’s also a great place for stunning views of the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour.
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Find Your Favorite Beach
Sydney is known for having an abundance of beaches. The weather is hot and sunny for most of the year, so it’s a Sydney must-do to take a picnic down to the beach and relax in the sand.
There is a beach to suit every personality in Sydney, whether you like the vibrant energy of Bondi and Coogee, or the peaceful quiet of Bronte.
Try a few different beaches to see which one you like best — they are all easy to get to with public transportation.
Go Museum Hopping
This is one of the most culturally rich cities in Australia and it has a range of world-class museums. Take a day to explore some of the best museum collections and soak up centuries of priceless artifacts, artwork and more. The Art Gallery of New South Wales showcases superb modern art, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia at The Rocks.
The Australian National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour offers an interesting glimpse into maritime history and the White Rabbit Gallery has a fantastic collection of contemporary Chinese art. The Powerhouse Museum is also a very interesting spot, with a focus on innovation, design, science and technology.
Escape to Garigal National Park
Although Garigal National Park is only 20 kilometers from the Sydney CBD, you will feel like you have ventured into a vast wilderness. This protected area holds 2,202 hectares of wild green space and is home to many species of local flora and fauna. It’s a very popular spot with hikers and cyclists.
As well as peaceful greenery and wild creatures, you’ll also find 100 ancient Aboriginal sites throughout the park where you can glimpse rock engravings and cave art.
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Check out Cockatoo Island
This island in Sydney Harbour has a fascinating history. It has been a prison for those who were transported to the Australian penal colony in the 19th century, as well as a shipyard during World War II.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is accessible via ferry and there is a self-guided audio tour for visitors that will allow them to explore the island’s convict and ship-building history.
You can also visit the Cockatoo Island Marine Centre and enjoy a snack with a fantastic view of the harbor from the Societe Overboard Cafe.