Sydney Visitor Guide and Boutique Accommodation
Top things to do in Sydney
There's no shortage of iconic Sydney attractions—from the Sydney Opera House to the bustle of Circular Quay and the golden sands of Bondi Beach. But Sydney offers so much more beneath the surface. Whether you're chasing art, architecture, or a scenic spot to sip your morning coffee, this is a city made for exploring.
Must-see Sydney attractions
Start with the classics. Stroll around the sails of the Sydney Opera House, attempt the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, or jump on a ferry to soak in the harbour from the water. Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, a lush oasis where you can picnic under a canopy of ancient fig trees or take in harbour views on the way to Mrs Macquarie's Chair.
Art lovers can wander through the Art Gallery of New South Wales or explore the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay, while history buffs might find themselves drawn to The Rocks, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Australia, filled with cobblestone laneways, hidden bars, and weekend markets.
Explore Sydney's neighbourhoods
Don't stop at the icons. Sydney's charm lies in its neighbourhoods. Plan the perfect beach day in Manly, bar-hop your way through the charming pubs and wine bars of Surry Hills, or loose track of time browsing indie bookshops and vintage boutiques in Newtown. Head to Paddington for high-end fashion and leafy strolls, or explore Chippendale's buzzing art scene and hidden laneway bars. And for those who like to keep things active, the Bondi to Coogee walk remains a must. Each pocket of the city brings its own personality, and exploring them is half the fun.
Dining in Sydney
Whether a bruncher, a long luncher or a late-night snacker, Sydney's diverse dining scene is hard to beat. In Surry Hills, Firedoor turns elemental cooking into art. There's no gas or electricity here, just fire. Nearby, Gildas delivers Basque-inspired meals in an intimate, candle-lit setting, while Pellegrino 2000 is the go-to for handmade pasta, vintage Chianti and a great playlist. Shaffa, set between two heritage-listed sandstone buildings, is a Middle Eastern dream, think fresh pita, crispy chickpeas, chicken shawarma and cocktails laced with spice.
Arthur and Poly (also in Surry Hills) take the neighbourhood bistro to bold new heights with ever-changing menus and natural-leaning wine lists that'll have you lingering longer than planned. Just around the corner, Chin Chin serves Southeast Asian street food in a sleek, stylish setting.
By the beach? Sean's in Bondi remains a classic for a reason—farm-to-table produce with stunning ocean views. Or keep it casual with Totti's wood-fired bread, burrata and spritzes in the courtyard. Ikaria offers a menu of Mediterranean meze and delicious drinks, perfect for sunny afternoons that roll into sunset. And if you're craving fish and chips with a little extra polish, North Bondi Fish delivers with its laid-back style, coastal classics, and front-row seats to Bondi's best view.
Over in Paddington, the pub scene is strong. Grab a booth and a cold one at The Paddington, or settle in at The Lord Dudley for heritage charm and hearty British fare. Looking for rooftop views? The Royal Hotel has you covered with sweeping city views and an equally impressive wine list. Wherever you land, our advice is the same—book ahead, say yes to the chef's recommendation, and let Sydney show off a little.
Fun things to do with family in Sydney
Families looking for fun things to do in Sydney won't have to look far. Spend a day exploring Darling Harbour, where you'll find SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. A ferry ride to Taronga Zoo is always a hit, offering not just wildlife but also some of the best views of Sydney Harbour. If the weather turns, duck into the Powerhouse Museum or the Australian Museum, both packed with hands-on exhibitions and family attractions that'll keep everyone entertained (and out of the rain).
Sydney comes with plenty of green spaces too. Hyde Park is ideal for picnics and impromptu games, while Centennial Parklands has playgrounds, bike tracks, and pony rides. The best bit? Many of these spots are an easy stroll or short ride from Crystalbrook Albion, so your days out remain fun (and fuss-free).
Pet-friendly Sydney
Bringing your furry friend along for the ride? Sydney is packed with pet-friendly places that make travelling with your pup an absolute breeze. Think off-leash parks with harbour views, cafés serving pup-approved treats, and beaches made for doggy paddles, like Rose Bay Beach, a local favourite for seaside sniffing and the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail, ideal for on-leash adventures with a view. Inner-city pubs and breweries often welcome dogs, and weekend markets offer plenty of socialising opportunities for you and your pup.
Plan a Sydney weekend getaway
Planning a Sydney weekend getaway? Whether you're visiting from out of town or playing tourist in your own city, this is the place to do it in style. Wander from beach to bar, gallery to rooftop garden, and end your day at a wine bar with a view. From sunrise swims in Bondi to late-night eats in Chinatown, Sydney knows how to keep things interesting. And with so many great spots close together, you'll be amazed at how much you can fit in over two (very well-spent) days.
