The best Sydney itinerary| How to spend 4-7 days exploring Sydney

Looking for the best Sydney Itinerary!? Well, you’ve come to the right place!  I lived in Sydney for a full year while on the incredible working holiday visa program, and it instantly became one of my favorite cities in the world! While I, unfortunately, don’t live there anymore…Sydney will always be a second home to me!

Sydney really does have it all!  Amazing beaches, delicious food, fantastic atmosphere, iconic landmarks, and super friendly locals!  I really believe there is no better place to start your Australian vacation than in this remarkable city, and I really hope this Sydney itinerary will help you figure out how to spend your time in the city.

Whether you’ve only got 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, or 7 full days in Sydney…I’m sure that this detailed itinerary and travel guide will pretty much go over all of your best options of things to do, places to visit, and helpful Sydney travel tips.  

So without further ado…

Sydney Itinerary

Sydney Itinerary


DAY 1: EXPLORE BONDI BEACH & COASTAL WALK

There’s simply no better place to start your vacation in Sydney than the world-famous & iconic suburb of Bondi Beach.  Filled with trendy cafes, shopping malls, and gorgeous people – everyone will simply fall in love with Bondi!  In fact, you could easily spend a full-week here alone trying all the amazing breakfast hotspots, relaxing on the beach, and catching some waves (as Bondi is a top-notch location for people trying to learn to surf).

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BONDI BEACH: 

  • Watch the sunrise
  • Go Swimming
  • Relax on the Beach
  • Learn how to surf
  • Visit Bondi Icebergs
  • Bondi Pavillion
  • Bondi Markets
  • Breakfast at Chapter One Bondi  (one of the best breakfasts in Bondi)
  • Lunch at MilkyLane Bondi
  • Bondi Junction Shopping

Bondi Beach Sunrise Sydney

Sydney Itinerary One Week


If you’re looking for surf lessons, then I’d recommend checking out “Let’s Go Surfing”.  While I haven’t personally used them before, they really are the best in the business!

“The golden sands and crystal waters of Bondi continue to capture hearts all around the world. As Bondi’s only officially licensed surf school on Australia’s most famous beach, our team of passionate and experienced Surf Instructors have been changing lives one wave at a time since 1995. Home to Australia’s oldest surf lifesaving club, funky beach vibe bars and restaurants, urban-style shops, hip markets, Lets Go Surfing and Bondi is an experience not to be missed. Australia’s greatest surf experience on Australia’s Greatest Beaches!”  

Sydney Itinerary


THE FAMOUS BONDI BEACH TO COOGEE COASTAL WALK 

No visit to Sydney would be complete without strolling along the unbelievably scenic path between Bondi & Coogee Beach.  It’s one the best tourist attractions in the city, and I’ll honestly never forget my first time doing this trek!  I don’t care if you have only 2-days in Sydney or a full week – this is one of the best things to do in the city!

The path is super easy to follow and will lead you around to all of the best beaches in Sydney’s eastern suburbs from Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte, Waverly, Clovelly, Gordon’s Bay, and ending in Coogee Beach.

Bondi to Coogee itinerary


Bondi -> Bronte = 2.5 km

Bronte -> Coogee = 3.5km

In total, the distance is about 6km (3.7 miles), and you really should spend around 4-5 hours completing the whole thing.  There are tons of photo opportunities along the way, things to do, and spot to relax.  What I love is that there really is a great atmosphere along the path, and you’ll learn how much of an outdoors-focused and active city Sydney really is.  Locals use this path as their daily exercise route, and I really can’t imagine a better place to burn some calories each day!

Sydney Itinerary

Sydney Itinerary

Sydney Itinerary


Coogee Beach Pavillion

At this point of the day, you’re probably going to be ready for a big meal and cocktail, and there’s no better place to do that then the rooftop bar at the Coogee Pavillion.  When I used to live in Sydney, I would come to this spot every Sunday, and it’s one one of my favorite restaurants/ bars in the city.

“A beautifully styled oasis overlooking Coogee Beach, featuring four bars and a sweeping balcony.

“Our rooftop is all about breezy good vibes. Depending on the size of your event, you can commandeer the whole floor or one of four eclectic indoor bars.  Sample Mediterranean-inspired food, amongst eccentrically styled surrounds. The beachside location and outlook over Wedding Cake Island are spectacular. And who doesn’t love a rooftop party?”  


DAY 2: STUNNING SYDNEY HARBOUR (OPERA HOUSE & BRIDGE)

What would you say are the most iconic buildings in the world? The Colosseum, Eiffel Tower, Great Wall of China, and of course the SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE.  Visiting this famous landmark and getting up close and personal is a Sydney-must, and there’s just so much to do around this part of the city that I think an entire needs to be dedicated to it.

Here are a few ideas of how to BEST spend your time exploring the Sydney Harbour 

Sydney Itinerary


Opera Bar

On my very first day in Sydney, my mate Troy brought me to this bar, and we chatted about how excited I was to be moving to Sydney, while we drank beers and started out at the massive Sydney Harbour Bridge.  It was one of the most surreal feelings and settings, and a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours.

“Situated right by the water’s edgeOpera Bar is often described as the best beer garden in the world. Be swept away by the panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, CBD and beautiful Harbour. Whether it’s breakfast, a lazy lunch, a pre-show dinner date or simply a cocktail; Opera Bar is truly perfect for any occasion.”

What I love about the Opera Bar is that it’s an awesome experience at any time of the day!  Whether you want to stop here for a midday drink/meal, watch the sunset here, or keep the party going here at night – there aren’t many bars in Sydney with this stunning of a view!

Opera Bar Sydney


Self-Guided Walking Tour through “The Rocks”

“This walk explores The Rocks, the oldest part of Sydney situated on the western shores of Sydney Cove, an area steeped in history. The Rocks were the first European settlement in Australia, established by Captain Arthur Phillip of England in 1788 as a penal colony. The original buildings were built using blocks of local sandstone – hence the name “The Rocks.” To make the most of your walk, you should allow at least half a day, although the walk can be done in much quicker time. If you want to continue on to the steps that lead up to the pedestrian walkway on the harbour bridge, and then leisurely walk across the Harbour Bridge and return by ferry, allow a full day. The harbour bridge part of the walk involves steep areas and steps, so if you have a mobility problem you might prefer to end your walk in The Rocks.”

Sydney Itinerary 3 Days


Walk Across the Sydney Harbour Bridge | Pylon Lookout

Walking across this magnificent beast is easily one of the best free things to do in Sydney, and I’d say is a must for everyone coming to Australia!  The views you get on both sides of the bridge are completely stunning, and you’ll also get some really epic photos of the Sydney Harbour.  It doesn’t take too long at all, and is just overall a really simple yet fantastic experience!  Trust me – just do it!

This is also where you’ll find one of the best views and popular Instagram spots in the city – the Pylon Lookout!  While you do have to pay to enter (see entrance rates below), it really is worth it.  It’s also an amazing exhibition where you’ll learn all about the history of the bridge, which I personally think is fascinating!

General Admission (13 years and over) $15.00
Concession (Seniors & Student) $10.00
Children (5 to 12 years, inclusive) $8.50
Children (4 years and under) FREE

“Come and see the fantastic views of the city, the harbour and the world famous icon – the Sydney Harbour Bridge!

There are 200 stairs to the Pylon Lookout™, 87 meters above mean sea level, but on the way up there are 3 levels of exhibits where you will discover the history and construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the men who built it, and the vision of JJC Bradfield, chief engineer.”

Sydney Itinerary


Milson’s Point & Luna Park

If you do walk across the Harbour Bridge (from The Rocks), you’ll end up in the charming suburb of Milson’s Point.  This is one of my favorite areas in Sydney (mainly because of photograph purposes), and I’ve spent countless hours here wandering around looking for different vantage points.

Take a photographic stroll through Bradfield Park, ride one of the rides at the famous Luna Park, and enjoy some scenic views of Sydney Harbour from the parks above Lavender Bay.  It’s simply a fantastic area to visit during the day and at night, and know it’ll make you fall in love with Sydney as much as I have.

You can also take the ferry from Milson’s Point back to Circular Quay after you’ve finished. 

Sydney Itinerary

Sydney Itinerary


The Sydney Opera House Tour

Why come all the way to Sydney without learning a thing or two about its most iconic landmark?  This quick tour is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and really is a great to learn all about the Opera House!!

Duration:  1-Hour

Price:  $20.78+ U.S.D (Read Reviews)

Sydney Itinerary


“Delight in an in-depth tour to the Sydney Opera House, and learn the history and stories behind this UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmark.

Join your informative tour guide as you wander through elegant foyers and performance halls. Take an audience seat on custom-made birch chairs, and imagine the thousands of concerts, operas, and ballet performances held on the grand stage.  Listen to the inspiring yet challenging 15-year journey of architect Jorn Utzon as you visit areas normally closed off to the general public. Admire the Opera House’s ceramic exterior, evoking yacht sails along the Sydney Harbour.

Upgrade your tour and enjoy a delicious meal set from the Portside Sydney Opera House. Feast on roasted salmon and chicken sliders, and mini cream puffs as you gaze at the Sydney skyline along Sydney Harbour.”

Your First Visit to the Sydney Opera House | Hyperlapse

Royal Botanical Gardens | Sunset at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair

“The Royal Botanic Garden is a verdant oasis in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.”

To wrap up your time exploring Sydney Harbour, you’ll want to spend at least an hour or so walking through the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens.  It’s such a relaxing place to take a stroll, have a picnic, and enjoy stunning views of the entire harbour.  It’s also home to some of the best music festivals in Australia, and there’s pretty much always something fun going on in this massive park.

One of the best spots in the park is the iconic Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, which is easily one of my favorite places in the entire city!  Every night during sunset you’ll see tons of locals and tourists admiring the view of the sun slowly dipping beneath the city in the distance.  The way the sky lights up in different shades of pink and orange, really makes the Opera House & Sydney Harbour really pop.

This is one of the best photography places in the city, and you’ll definitely spot at least one or two different photographers with tripods taking photos every night.

Sydney Itinerary

Best Sydney Itinerary


Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

“Absorb a 360-degree panorama of Sydney as you journey to the summit on our original Climb experience. Like an exposed spine, the outer rim delivers you to the peak, as the sky remains just beyond your outstretched fingertips.”

If you’re afraid of heights, then this activity probably isn’t for you…but for all the adrenaline junkies planning a trip to Sydney – this should definitely be at the top of your list!  In fact, this was actually voted as the #1 Traveller’s Choice in Australia and #4 globally, so you know it’s pretty much loved by everyone’s who’s conquered it!

Now, I haven’t done this yet…but I’ve already promised myself that I wouldn’t go back to Sydney without doing it!!

Price:  $194.57  (Read Reviews)

  • 3 ½ hours long, max. 14 people per group.
  • 1,332 steps (that’s around 500 calories/2100 kilojoules for those tracking)
  • Ideal if you want to soak up the moment and take the upper arch.
  • Ideal if you’re a bit nervous and would like more support from our Climb Leaders.
  • You can do this Climb at dawn (limited departures), day, twilight or night.

Sydney Itinerary


DAY 3: WATSON’S BAY, BEACHES & SOUTHHEAD WALK

Sydney has a wide variety of different neighborhoods and suburbs to explore, but I think Watson’s Bay is one of the best!  I’ve been here two different times now, and each visit I’ve found something new to appreciate about it.

Getting to Watson’s Bay is super easy, and just requires you to take a ferry from Circular Quay to Watson’s Bay – this is super scenic and only takes 27 minutes!  Hopping on this ferry is reason enough to make your way out there, but then you’ve got lots to explore once you arrive!

Sydney Itinerary


The Gap Park Lookout

This place is absolutely stunning, and there’s a really cool walking trail that will lead you up to different vantage points of the sandstone cliffs.  While this is actually a stop along the Southhead walk, I actually always just went straight here after getting off the ferry.

The view out to sea from the various lookouts is magnificent, but I can’t help thinking briefly about the negative aspects of The Gap, a known suicide spot. An emergency phone to Lifeline (13 11 14) is prominently placed near the steps. The beauty of my surroundings, the sun sparkling on the water and the hope of seeing a whale soon distract me

“When international director and closet ghoul Alfred Hitchcock visited Sydney in the sixties, this was his infamous point of reference. Locals know, and tourists do not, that this is the last stop for the desperate few, it also a beautiful location for a spectacular scenic cliff top walk that begins at The Gap Park.”

Sydney Itinerary 7 Days

Sydney Itinerary


Southhead Walk

You could actually spend all day just enjoying all the different stops in this walk!  While it isn’t very time consuming (only taking a couple hours), it is loaded with historical importance, pristine beaches, nude beaches (Lady Bay), epic views, lighthouses, and so much more.

“The short South Head Heritage trail offers something for everyone: incredible beach and harbour views, a glimpse into history and excellent whale watching opportunities.

Best Sydney Itinerary One Week


Starting at Camp Cove in Watsons Bay, this short walk takes you on a stroll along a 1870s cobblestone road past Lady Bay Beach, before reaching historic Hornby Lighthouse with its distinctive red and white stripes. Take some time to explore the gun emplacements and keep your eyes open if you’re there during whale watching season.

The spectacular views of Sydney are sure to astound you, with Sydney Harbour to the west, Middle Head and North Head to the north, and the expansive Pacific Ocean to the east; and leave you wanting to explore more of Sydney Harbour National Park.”

I feel like most tourists skip this place when visiting Sydney, and I think that’s a complete shame!

Sydney Itinerary

what to do in sydney

sydney attractions


Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel

You simply can’t come to Watson’s Bay without getting at least a drink or a meal at this hotel!

Sidenote: did you know that Australians use the word “hotel” for bar…!?  I had no idea until I got to Australia, and I thought it was so weird. Why you may be wondering?

Well, “a pub, short for Public House, is an establishment whose main function is to serve alcohol, mostly beer. Also known as an Ale house or Tavern. … The reason for this is that until recently, in Australia (late 1980s), pubs were forced, by the liquor laws, to provide accommodation and so were accurately called hotels.”  Thanks to Midland hotel for that quick little history lesson!

“Grounded on the sandy shoreline of one of Sydney’s most iconic harbour beaches, Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is the perfect destination for those in pursuit of sun, fresh seafood platters, seasonal fare and icy cold refreshments, overlooking Sydney’s spectacular harbour.”

Sounds pretty great, hey?  After a long day of exploring and photographing the gorgeous coastlines and walking trails in Watson’s Bay, make sure you pop in here for a beer, a sunset, and even book a night’s accommodation here if you want!  It’s one of Sydney sider’s favorite hotels, and has won awards like “Hotel of the Year’ and ‘Best Social Media’ in the past!  Trust me – you want to visit this place!  You also can’t really miss it, because it’s the first place you’ll see when you get off the ferry!

Sydney Itinerary
Photo via Watsons Bay

DAY 4: SYDNEY CBD + SUBURBS

Sydney is a pretty massive city, and I feel like people always forget that!

While the main downtown area/ Central Business District (CBD for short) is small compared to cities like New York or London – Sydney is just a massive county with tons of different areas to explore.

A few of my favorites are:  

Newtown:  If you’re looking for the cultural hub/ artistic district in Sydney, then this is where you need to go!  It can be difficult to explain, but it’s easily the most unique suburb in the city.  It’s filled with live-music venues, gay bars, graffiti walls, street singers, a massive dog-friendly park, and an amazing variety of food options!  If you only come to Newtown for one meal, then you’ve got to visit the ever so popular Mary’s.  I think this video below perfectly encapsulates Mary’s & and the vibe you’ll find Newtown:

YouTube Music: Sounds of Newtown

Surry Hills:  This is another extremely trendy/ hip suburb in Sydney, and you could easily forget you’re actually in Sydney while exercising up and down its hilly roads.  It’s got amazing food though, top-notch art, excellent nightlife, and is centrally located / easy to get to.

“On the southern fringe of Sydney’s CBD, you’ll stumble across the suburb of Surry Hills: a gritty, creative and foodie-filled enclave. It’s arguably the creative heart of Sydney, and a mandatory pop-in for anyone visiting the harbour city.

The Polly Pocket-sized suburb is home to fashion designers, creative agencies and tech start-ups, along with professionals, young hipsters, the drug-addicted and homeless.”

Check out this amazing article about “25 of the best things to do in Surry Hills” which will definitely keep you busy if decide to take a visit.  All the food recommendations are 100% worth it, especially trying out Sydney favorite Gelato Messina.

Surry Hills
Photo via Eat Play Love Travel

Crows Nest – “Crowie” for short, (because Australians shorten every word/place they can) is a small suburb in the North Shore, and one of my favorite areas to go pub/ hotel hopping.  There always seem to be great deals, amazing meals, and delicious craft beers.  It’s also been named “the most livable Suburb in Sydney”, and goes by the motto – The Nest is the Best.    

“Getting its name thanks to its elevated position – it’s one of the highest points of all of the northern suburbs – Crows Nest is home to a strip of family-owned mid-range restaurants, with a bunch of Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese joints dotted along the Pacific Highway and tucked up behind the major arterial road.”  – Time Out Crows Nest Guide

If you’re free at night one night, then I’d definitely recommend making your way to Crows Nest for a night out.  If you’re not sure where to start, then just make your way to The Hayberry Bar & Diner for some Burgers, Booze, Blues & Rock ‘n’ Roll.


DAY 5: LET’S GO DAY-TRIPPING

If you’ve got a full week or longer in Sydney, then I think you should spend at least one day outside the city to explore one of the best day trips!

There are some really amazing options to choose from, but here are my top 3 recommendations:


The Blue Mountains, Featherdale & Cruise Day Tour:

Price:  $99.88

Duration:  Full-Day

“Spend a day exploring the sights and natural wonders of Blue Mountain on this exciting full-day tour from Sydney, taking time to cuddle with koalas and kangaroos and see the spectacular sights of the landscape before returning to Sydney on a river cruise.”

Read Reviews & Check Availability

Sydney Itinerary
Photo via GetYourGuide

Jervis Bay

Want to visit some of the whitest sand beaches in the world…!?  Then you NEED to make your way down to Jervis Bay, which is one of Australia’s most popular seaside destinations.  While ideally, I think you should spend more than one day down there (as it is quite far from the city), it is a truly stunning place that I think is worth visiting.

Read my article titled “THE PERFECT WEEKEND GETAWAY EXPLORING THE NEW SOUTH WALES COAST” to get a better understanding of what to expect.

In fact, if you have the time, I’d definitely recommend renting a car and driving down the coast for a 2-3 day road trip like I did.

Sydney Itinerary

Sydney Itinerary

Sydney Itinerary


Hunter Valley Wine Tasting

Who else loves wine…!?  Well, you may not know this, but Australia is home to some of the best vineyards/ wines in the entire world!  I actually did my first ever wine tasting in the Yarra Valley, and it was one of my favorite experiences I’ve had in Australia!

Located just a couple hours drive from downtown Sydney, the Hunter Valley would be an amazing destination for a full-day of wine-tasting!

Price:  $99.88

Duration:  12 Hours

From Sydney: Hunter Valley Tour with Lunch & Distillery  – “Explore the stunning Hunter Valley wine region tasting some of Australia’s best wine, food, cheese, chocolate, beer and distilled spirits. If you like small groups, great music, and a relaxed atmosphere, this is your tour.”

Read Reviews & Check Availability 

Sydney Itinerary
Photo via GetYourGuide

DAY 6: MANLY BEACH

With its gorgeous beaches, scenic coastal walks, and stunning snorkeling spots — a visit to Manly should be on everyone’s Sydney itinerary.  I spent two full days around Manly Beach, and now I’m a strong advocate that it’s easily one of the best suburbs in Sydney.  If you get the chance, definitely make it out this way for more than just a day-trip.  There’s simply too much to see and adventurous things to do that you can’t fit it all in one-day.   

With that being said, if you get to Manly early on in the day, you can squeeze in quite a lot!  I’ve actually written a destination itinerary before, so take a read through this article: HOW TO SPEND TWO DAYS EXPLORING MANLY BEACH, SYDNEY.  This will go over some really amazing food options, activities, and much more to keep you busy during your day exploring Manly.

If you need more inspiration to visit Manly Beach, check out this awesome article titled “5 Reasons Why Manly Beach is one of the best beaches in Sydney.

Manly BEach Sydney Itinerary

Sydney Itinerary


Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal Walk

If you’re not too tired out already from a busy 5 days in Sydney, then I think the Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal walk is another fantastic way to spend a day (but only if it’s sunny & warm).  Just a fair warning though – this trek is around 10km (6.2 miles), and really does require a chunk of the day!   The views you get of Sydney Harbour though are truly magnificent though, and I think it leads you around to some of the most pristine beaches in the entire city!  I haven’t done this trek in many years, but it definitely left a solid impression.

Whenever I make it back to Sydney, I know I’m going to make it a priority to complete this Manly – Spit Bridge coastal track again.

Sydney Itinerary One Week


DAY 7: LEAVING ROOM FOR EXTRAS + ENDLESS OPTIONS

The truth is…completing everything I’ve mentioned in this 4-7 days Sydney itinerary is going to be quite challenging in such a short amount of time.  That’s why I’m going to leave this final day, a little bit more open and flexible.

There really is no shortage of amazing things do in Sydney, and I’m sure you’ll want some free time to just go with the flow, and see what happens!  Maybe you could spend a couple nights down in Jervis Bay, decide to book a hotel in Manly, or you just don’t want to leave Bondi Beach.

With that being said, here are a few more things that I think could be an awesome addition to your time in Sydney, and you could easily fit into your last day!

Sydney Itinerary


Taronga Zoo: Want to see gorgeous giraffes with the Sydney Opera House in the background?  Well, you totally can do that!  While I haven’t been here personally, I think this is a Sydney-must for anyone traveling with kids.

“Enjoy a fun-filled day at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo. Start your day off with a cruise along the Sydney Harbour. See impressive landmarks such as the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Arrive at Taronga Zoo, home to over 350 different animal species with eight unique environments to explore. The zoo offers an abundance of activities, from animal encounters to daily educational talks.”

Price breakdown

Adults = $ 34.77 U.S.D
Children =  $19.98 U.S.D

The Taronga Zoo is easily reachable by ferry, and tickets are cheaper when you purchase online!  

Come play Wild and Seek at Taronga

Darling Harbour:  I can’t believe I made it to day 7 in this Sydney Itinerary without mentioning Darling Harbour! This place is 100% a must visit in the city, and I think you must visit here at night!  This place really comes alive every evening, the promenade is loaded with amazing restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

It’s also the location to some of Sydney’s best tourist attractions like the Sydney Aquarium Madame Tussauds, the Wildlife Zoo, and much more…

“There’s really nowhere in the world quite like Darling Harbour.

From first light to starry nights, there’s always something going on here. Coffee machines froth, water laps, children play, friends chat, steaks sear, glasses clink and bass thumps. Infectious sounds travel on harbour breezes as text messages and online updates share snapshots of good times.

If you’re a local, chances are you really do come here often. If you’re new in town, there’s no question you’ll have this sparkling harbour on your Sydney bucket list.”


Sydney Tower Rotating Buffet / Bar:  If you’re looking for the highest view in the city, then there’s no question you must go to the 305 meters tall Sydney Tower!  I’ve been up here once for sunset, and the views truly are magnificent!!  When I went up there (on a date actually), I only went for drinks…but I’ve heard the food is absolutely amazing!

Sydney Itinerary


Want to visit the observation deck instead…? 

Price:  $20.71 (Read Reviews)

“Skip the big queue and enjoy faster entry by going straight to the prepaid voucher queue. Then stand on the Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck, 820 feet (250 meters) above the street, and be rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views as far as 48 miles (80 kilometers) into the distance. Then, discover a new dimension to Sydney with a 4D cinema experience.

Nestled at the highest point of the city, the Observation Deck offers the ultimate view of Sydney’s beaches and neighborhoods, with vistas as far as the Blue Mountains. Offering both day and night viewing slots, state-of-the-art multilingual touchscreens provide an interactive introduction to some of the city’s famous landmarks, and the high-powered binoculars give you an even closer look.

Sydney Itinerary


WHERE TO STAY IN SYDNEY

First things first, you’re going to need somewhere to sleep during your Sydney visit! Now it obviously depends on your budget/travel style, but I think below would be my top recommendations:

Sydney Harbour YHA –  My Favorite Hostel in Sydney

Looking for the best hostel in Sydney? Then I’d definitely recommend staying here at the YHA The Rocks.  I stayed here nearly a full week at the end of my last trip to the city, and it ended up being one of my favorite hostels!  The rooms are comfortable, the social backpacker vibe is great, and there is an absolutely stunning rooftop terrace overlooking Sydney Harbour!  Check Rates & Availability here.

The Westin Sydney (LUXURY HOTEL)

In the past couple years I’ve had the pleasure of staying at a few different Westin properties, and I’m officially obsessed with the brand!  The Westin Sydney is truly a luxurious gem, and will definitely provide a super comfortable stay in they city.  It’s perfectly located in downtown CBD, has incredible amenities, and you’re guaranteed to get a good night’s sleep thanks to their signature “heavenly beds”.

Also, give a quick read through my experience at The Westin Maldives: Heavenly Luxurious in Every Way, which is now the best resort I’ve ever stayed at!

Sydney Itinerary


GETTING AROUND SYDNEY | OPAL CARD

While some may disagree, I personally think that the Sydney publish transportation system works really well, and you’ll definitely want to get used to using it!  It will be able to bring you all over the city especially to the destinations mentioned in this 7 day Sydney itinerary.

Just make sure you get yourself an “OPAL card” and register it online! *FREE*

This is the public transportation payment system, and it will save you A LOT of time and money by utilizing it.  Fun fact – I actually used to work the Opal Card call center while I was living in Sydney, and think it’s a really fantastic product.

If you lose your Opal card, you can actually call them and get it blocked so no one else can use it.  Then you just need to get a new card, and transfer the old balance to the new card.  Hopefully you won’t lose your card, but it’s better to know you won’t lose money that you’ve loaded onto it.  

5 Days in Sydney Itinerary


STAYING CONNECTED IN SYDNEY

Wondering what is the best tourist SIM card for Sydney…?  If you’re landing at Sydney International airport, once you get through customs & immigration, you will see like 5-6 different phone stores all offering a variety of phone plans for tourists!

My personal recommendation would be to go for Optus!  They’ve got amazing tourist SIM card packages, and the coverage is top-notch.  When I lived in Sydney, I actually used Vodafone which I really loved, up until I left Sydney and had basically zero reception.  Vodafone is only good if you stay in the city!

2 Days in Sydney Itinerary


DON’T FORGET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Whether you are heading to Sydney for just a few days or embarking on a lengthy trip around Australia, travel insurance is absolutely essential. Have you seen some of the crazy animals they have Downunder, or indeed, how expensive some things (including medical care) can be in Australia?

Getting sick or having items stolen while travelling is rare, but when it does happen, it can be an absolute nightmare. Having insurance (which is essential for visas in some countries) will give you the peace of mind that if anything terrible does happen, you are covered.

I highly recommend HeyMondo due to their extensive range of cover for all situations and trip lengths, their fair pricing, and their handy app which allows you to not only manage any claims within the app, but also access free assistance online so you don’t need to rack up an expensive phone bill while abroad!

So, whether you need a single trip cover or an affordable annual cover for multiple trips worldwide, be sure to buy your travel insurance before you travel, and relax during your trip knowing that HeyMondo has your back. Nowadays I would never travel without insurance again, especially after hearing so many (expensive and dangerous) horror stories from other travellers I’ve met!

Still planning your trip? You can always just get a no commitment travel insurance quote now, so you have an idea of how much extra to budget for your vacation!


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