There is so much to do in Sydney and when planning your trip it can be a bit overwhelming. I had a list the length of my arm of things I wanted to do and see before I came and I have done a pretty good job at ticking them off. Below are the top things that I would recommend doing if you are only visiting or what should be on the very top of your bucket list.
This walk is so beautiful it is a MUST do when visiting Sydney. Overall the walk is 6km which isn't bad and the walk itself is pretty moderate. There are quite a few steps at some stages so I wouldn't go on the warmest of days as you might die with the heat! The views you get to see along the walk are amazing and if you do the walk around May/June or November/December you may even spot some humpbacks on their migration so keep your eyes peeled.
I personally prefer to start the walk in Coogee and walk to Bondi rather than the other way around. The reason for this is that there is more to do in Bondi so when you are finished you can pop into the Iceberg bar for some drinks and a bite to eat, which brings me to my next top thing to do.
2. Bondi Icebergs
You might recognize this popular bar from Instagram, its the famous Bondi Icebergs. At the end of the Coogee to Bondi walk, you will find yourself at the Icebergs pool. This is a great spot for getting a well-deserved drink after your walk and getting that Insta pic.
If you don't fancy having some food and drinks you can pay into the pool & sauna for just $8.
*Remember to bring ID as you will need it to get in even if you don't plan on drinking.
3. Opera House/ Harbour Bridge/ Rocks Area
Is it even a trip to Sydney if you don't get a pic of the Opera house & Harbour bridge?? I love this area of Sydney as it really makes you realise where you are with the two main tourist attractions side by side.
Head on down to the Opera Bar to do some serious people watching, this is also a great place to get a picture of both the Opera house and bridge. Once you are finished there walk up to The Rocks area for some food. If you are an Italian lover you need to check out Zia Pina (AMAZING) or Munich Brauhaus for dollar wings & $5 drinks every day from 4pm-6pm.
4. Taronga Zoo
TBH I am not the biggest lover of zoo's I just feel sad every time I see the animals in their tiny cages but Taronga Zoo is so much more than your average Zoo.
Catch the ferry from circular quay across the water to the zoo and jump on the free cable car up to the main entrance. This gives great views of the city while also looking down at the zoo below. There are so many different species to go see they also do seal shows, as well as pictures beside some koalas. One thing we came across and I am sorry we didn't pay to do it was the Wild Ropes. It is basically an activity course up in the trees where you walk across ropes, navigate suspension bridges and climb walls. There are four different type courses suitable for all ages.
5. Ferry to Manly
If you want a short day trip from Sydney hop on the ferry at Circular Quay and head over to Manly for the day, where there is plenty of places to eat, beaches to chill and work on that tan or if you were feeling active why not do the 10km walk Manly to Spit.
*Go on Sunday for a $2.80 trip
6. Sunset From Mrs Macqurie Point
The perfect place to catch the sunset is strolling through Botanic Gardens to Mrs Macqurie Point, here you will get to see the sun going down behind the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
7. Cocktails at 360 Bar/ O Bar & Dining
If you want 360-degree views of Sydney from above what better way to see it than sipping on a cocktail. Both these bars offer a 360-degree view whilst revolving so you don't even have to get out of your seat to see every angle. Personally, my favourite is O Bar & Dining as it feels less touristy and you don't have a minimum spend.
8. Luna Park& North Sydney
Head over to North Sydney to experience Luna Park and why not check out the Olympic swimming pool while you're there. Another gem I found over at North Sydney was Wendy's Secret Garden, this place is so beautiful and a great escape from the city. This place is great to come chill while you figure out your next stop and there are tables for picnic opportunities also.
9. Darling Harbour Fire Works
I love Darling Harbour it is a great place to head get some food with beautiful harbour views. Our favourite place there so far is Casa and shock it's another Italian. Head for some food Saturday night and watch the firework display at 8.30pm.
10. Day Trip to the Blue Mountains
If you have the time I definitely recommend catching the train from Central out to the Blue Mountains. We got the train from Central to a town called Katoomba which is just a two-hour train ride away. Here you will be just a short bus ride from the famous Three Sisters and Scenic World. I will do a full blog post on a day trip to here and everything you need to know soon.
Have you ticked any of the above off your list and what are your top things to do here? :)
Lots of Love,
Leah
