The Ultimate Sydney Must-Do
Just arrived in Sydney? The big city has so much to offer, and we’ve got the top things you can’t leave without doing. Whether you’re hoping to spend as little as possible, are looking for something to splurge on or have literally $0 (feels), there are great things to do for every budget under the sun.
Splurge on…
The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
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The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, whilst incredible, it’s a splurge! But let’s be honest, it’s easily the coolest way to spend three hours in Sydney! Since launching in 1998, over three million people from around the globe have climbed to the top of the world’s largest steel arch bridge. For ya regular Sydneysider, the bridge may seem just like anything you see every day – but trust us, it doesn’t even compare to trekking right to the top. Whether you’re compelled by the view, the workout, the countless Insta opportunities, the friendly folk you’ll meet on the climb up or that ever so flattering bridge suit… there’s something to be said about this ultimate Sydney experience!
Got a few dollars?
Taronga Zoo
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Wanna see the gorgeous giraffes against the backdrop of the Sydney CBD? Well, obviously you can! A day trip to Taronga Zoo is a fantastic day out for both the kids and big kids alike, and let us tell you the ferry trip from Circular Quay is just as exciting. Spend your day visiting almost 4,000 animals, including native Australian and exotic species and take your pick from the 20+ daily shows and zookeeper talks to choose from! This is a MUST-DO for anyone travelling with kids (and a few dollars).
Opera Bar
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- Nestled in between the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, as far as casual drinking goes - the place is top notch! Whether its breakfast, a lazy brunch or lunch date, a pre-show dinner or simply cocktails with the girls, this spot is a real treat at any time of day. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll even see one of the huge cruise liners departing Sydney and raging its way through the Harbour. There aren’t many bars in Sydney offering up this sparkly harbour view! Serving up a fantastic way to spend a few hours and take in all the city pulse as day turns to night.
Sydney Aquarium
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No trip to Sydney is ever complete without visiting the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium! Home to more than 12,000 animals and 650 species, you’ll damn well feel like you’re in a ‘Finding Nemo’ film. Showcasing tropical fish and sharks, to turtles, dugongs, stingrays, platypuses and penguins. Be sure to take a squiz at the ‘Feeds and Talks’ timetable to make the most out of your aquarium experience – possibly, meet the dugong named ‘Pig’, find out what animal is known as ‘the Labrador of the sea’ and watch the cuddly penguins splash around?!
Sydney Tower Eye and Observation Deck
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If you’re looking for the highest, most twinkly and truly magnificent view in the city, there’s no question you MUST-GO to the 305m tall Sydney Tower! Introducing new levels of wining and dining. Order one (or five) of the 55 gourmet, multi-cuisine dishes and whatever your poison, because there’s something for everyone when these hella stunning, panoramic views are involved.
Wanna visit the Observation deck instead? Boasting 360-degree views as far as 80kms into the distance – with day and night viewing slots, state-of-the-art touchscreens provide an interactive and information element to the cities famous landmarks, coupled with some trend-setter binoculars to give you the most comprehensive look-see. Here’s an idea! Combine the two – a feed and a view. Yes please!
Got $0?
Wendy’s Secret Garden
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Whilst it’s not exactly a secret anymore, this garden is truly a hidden gem. Boasting majestic views of the sparkling harbour foreshore, framing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and CBD (talk about prime Insta potential)! Showcasing native and exotic plants, engraved stone tablets, wooden carvings, artworks from local artists, winding paths and a whole heap of magical, fairy, dazzling, botanical amazingness. If you’re after a relaxing picnic location, a place to meditation or just to sit and read a book… look no further! ALL FOR FREE, there’s a tonne of nooks and crannies around the garden for you to find your own little slice of peace and quiet.
Bondi Beach
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A fail-safe and FREE adventure to experience Sydney at its laid-back best! Surf, swim and soak up the sunshine! Take on the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk for spectacular views or kick back in one of the many fabulous cafes Bondi has to offer!
Hike from Bondi to Coogee
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There’s something about the coastline from Bondi to Coogee that’s different to any other stretch. The breathtaking 6km walking track is riddled with cliff faces, ocean baths, white sand and aqua blue waters! There are a few magical little spots that you need not miss from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach – including Bronte Baths, Gordons Bay and North Coogee Mermaid Pool.
Visit Sydney’s Free Museums
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- News flash! Sydney is home to some top quality museums… some of which are actually FREE! Here are a few freebie options for when you need some relief from the hot Sydney sun:
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Museum of Contemporary Art: all about the newest and greatest Australian and International modern art, the MCA at Circular Quay is an absolute must. The impressive art deco building is dedicated to exhibiting, collecting and interpreting the work of today’s contemporary artists.
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Australian National Maritime Museum: Australia’s national centre for maritime collections, research, exhibitions and archaeology. Besides the FREE permanent galleries, the ANMM also hosts an ever-changing program of temporary exhibitions and a fleet of historic craft.
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Art Gallery of NSW: Sydney’s most important public gallery and one of the largest in Australia. The general exhibition space is FREE and displays a wide variety of Australian, European and Asian art.
Need quality accommodation for your Sydney trip that won't break the bank? Look no further than one of our Sydney YHA properties!
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