Sydney is a renowned travel destination in Australia. The city's convenient transportation, delectable cuisine, fascinating attractions, and more draw countless tourists from around the globe to explore Sydney on their own.
Today, I'm going to share the top 15 classic must-see attractions in Sydney's city and suburban areas, along with a Sydney attractions map. I believe it will greatly assist in your travel planning.
1. Sydney Harbour
Who would come to Sydney and miss out on the famous "Sydney Harbour Bridge" and "Sydney Opera House"?
"Sydney Harbour" encompasses these two major attractions. It’s often the first impression of "Sydney" for international tourists, recognized as one of the world's finest harbors. Home to numerous concert halls and cultural centers, you can also enjoy strolling around Circular Quay or savoring local cuisine while admiring the beautiful harbor view!
◎ Address: Sydney Harbour, Sydney, NSW
◎ Transportation: A 5-minute walk from "Circular Quay" station by train or bus. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Recommended Activities: Sydney Harbour Cruise | Harbour Bridge Climb | Opera House Tour | Sydney Helicopter Tour | Harbour Bridge Climb 2 | Sydney Harbour Cruise & Dinner
◎ Official Websites: Sydney Opera House | Sydney Harbour Bridge
◎ Travelogues: Sydney Harbour
◎ Nearby Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(Spending New Year's Eve at Sydney Harbour is also on many travelers' must-do list in Australia. Nearby attractions include "Mrs. Macquarie's Chair" and "Royal Botanic Garden." For different perspectives of the harbor, it's highly recommended to explore these places as well.)
2. Blue Mountains National Park
For breathtaking natural scenery in Sydney, don't miss "Blue Mountains National Park." The two most famous spots are "Scenic World," where you can take a cable car and a small train, and "Three Sisters." Both offer extraordinary views, making them must-see attractions in Sydney!
◎ Address: Blue Mountains National Park, NSW
◎ Admission: Three Sisters - Free; Scenic World - Adults $53; Children (3-15) $31.8; Family (1 Adult, 1 Child) $84.8
◎ Money-saving Tips: Blue Mountains Cable Car Unlimited Pass | One-Day Tour | Sightseeing Bus Pass | 5-Site One-Day Tour | Scenic World Combo Tickets
◎ Transportation: Take BMT Line to Katoomba station, then bus 686 to the destination. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: Scenic World
◎ Travelogues: Blue Mountains
◎ Nearby Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(Scenic World also offers views of the Three Sisters.)
3. Bondi Beach
This popular Sydney sight is often seen on postcards, movies, or TV shows, thanks to its world-famous beautiful beach landscape. The "City to Surf" marathon takes place every August, and if you visit on a Sunday, you can also explore "Bondi Beach Markets" to enjoy the local lifestyle!
◎ Address: Bondi Beach, NSW
◎ Transportation: Take bus 333 to Campbell Pde near Hall St, then a 3-minute walk. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Recommended Activities: Bondi Beach Half-Day Tour | Bondi Beach Sightseeing Bus
◎ Official Website: Bondi Beach
◎ Nearby Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(If you have more time, consider visiting the famous "Bondi Icebergs Pool," a site frequented by many celebrities.)
4. Taronga Zoo
A trip to Australia isn't complete without seeing koalas and kangaroos! "Taronga Zoo" is Sydney's most famous zoo, offering close-up views of Australian native animals and a splendid view of Sydney Harbour. For thrill-seekers, try the high-rope adventure—perfect for families or group travel!
◎ Address: Taronga Zoo, Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, NSW
◎ Admission: Adults $46; Children $27
◎ Money-saving Tips: Discount Tickets | Ferry & Zoo Pass | Discount Admission
◎ Transportation: Take ferry F2/ bus 247 to Taronga Zoo. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: Taronga Zoo
◎ Nearby Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
5. The Sydney Tower Eye
Also known as "Sydney's Eye," "The Sydney Tower Eye" sits atop Westfield shopping center and is the city's tallest building. From its observation deck, visitors can overlook the entire city, perfect for admiring sunsets and nighttime views. Also, don't miss the "skywalk" experience, where you can walk around the top of the tower. It’s sure to be unforgettable!
◎ Address: Sydney Tower Eye, Market Street, Sydney, NSW
◎ Admission: Adults $26.4, Children $20; Skywalk - Adults $89, Children $64
◎ Money-saving Tips: Four-Attraction Pass | Discount Tickets | Sydney Tower & Skywalk
◎ Transportation: A 10-minute walk from Town Hall station. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: The Sydney Tower Eye
◎ Travelogues: Sydney Tower Eye
◎ Nearby Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(Strongly recommend trying the skywalk at Sydney Tower; it's an entirely different experience from the observation deck.)
6. Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is a perfect spot for visitors to savor delicious cuisine and enjoy a leisurely shopping spree. The area includes attractions such as the "Sea Life Sydney Aquarium," "Wild Life Sydney Zoo," "Madame Tussauds," and the "Maritime Museum," making it a highly valuable travel destination in terms of overall experience!
◎ Address: Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW
◎ Money-saving Tips: Four-Attraction Pass｜Zoo Discount Tickets｜Wax Museum Discount Tickets｜Aquarium Discount Tickets｜Aquarium Discount Tickets 2｜Zoo Discount Tickets 2
◎ Transportation: Take bus number 261 to King Street Wharf. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Websites: Darling Harbour｜Sea Life Sydney Aquarium｜Wild Life｜Madame Tussauds｜Maritime Museum
◎ Travel Notes: Darling Harbour
◎ Nearby Accommodations: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(Darling Harbour is also a great spot for night views)
7. Queen Victoria Building (QVB)
Located in Sydney's city center, the Queen Victoria Building, or QVB, is an exceptional "shopping paradise." With over a century of history, the building is home to numerous sculptures, antique clocks, vintage elevators, and more, each as beautiful as a piece of art. It could easily be considered a museum. Moreover, the QVB houses up to 200 shops and restaurants, making shopping here an absolute delight!
◎ Address: Queen Victoria Building, Sydney, NSW
◎ Transportation: Take a train to Town Hall Station and walk for approximately 3 minutes. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: Queen Victoria Building
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
8. Manly Beach
Manly Beach is a landmark destination in Sydney's northern region. In addition to a stunning 1.5-kilometer beach, there's Manly Corso where you can enjoy shopping in a relaxed atmosphere. From clothing stores, restaurants to skateboard shops, you'll find it all here. If you want to experience Australian-style living, this is a highly recommended choice!
◎ Address: Manly Beach, NSW
◎ Transportation: Take bus number 151 from Sydney's city center to Manly Tennis Club. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Recommended Itinerary: Manly Beach half-day tour
◎ Official Website: Manly Beach
◎ Travel Notes: Manly Beach
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
9. Sydney Fish Market
The Sydney Fish Market is the largest fish market in the southern hemisphere! Fresh seafood arrives daily, including hundreds of varieties of Australian lobsters, shrimps, crabs, fish, etc. It's my personal favorite fish market in Australia, and seafood lovers should not miss it!
◎ Address: Sydney Fish Market, Bank Street, Pyrmont NSW
◎ Transportation: Take the light rail to Fish Market and walk. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: Sydney Fish Market
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
10. The University of Sydney
Technically, the University of Sydney might not be classified as a "tourist attraction," but its stunning architecture has turned it into a must-visit spot for many tourists. The breathtaking British-style campus will make you feel like you're in a "Harry Potter" movie scene. While in Sydney, why not stop by and take a beautiful photo?
◎ Address: The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW
◎ Transportation: Take bus numbers 423/426/428/430 from Sydney's city center to King St after Queen St and walk. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: The University of Sydney
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
11. The Rocks
The Rocks is situated beside Sydney Harbour and is the location where the British first set foot in Australia. Historically a place for exiled criminals, it has been transformed over the years into a hub rich with artistic flair. Visitors will find a variety of restaurants and cafes, as well as a weekend market brimming with handicrafts and creative knick-knacks – a must-visit for enthusiasts!
◎ Address: The Rocks, Sydney NSW
◎ Recommended Itinerary: Pub Tour of The Rocks | Walking Tour of The Rocks
◎ Transportation: A 5-minute walk from the "Circular Quay" station after taking a train or bus from downtown Sydney. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: The Rocks
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(Besides markets and cuisine, nearby attractions in The Rocks include the "Museum of Contemporary Art Sydney" and "Sydney Observatory." If you have extra time, consider adding them to your itinerary.)
12. The Star Sydney
The Star Sydney is Australia's second-largest casino, following the "Crown Casino Melbourne." Besides the luxurious gambling floor, it also features numerous bars, restaurants, and hotels. Offering a view of Darling Harbour, it's the place to go if you want to experience the casino culture of Sydney!
◎ Address: The Star Sydney, Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont NSW
◎ Transportation: Take bus no. 389 from downtown Sydney to John Street Square, Harris St. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: The Star Sydney
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(Photo by Maksym Kozlenko via Wikipedia)
13. Palm Beach
Palm Beach is the filming location for Australia's long-running TV series, Home and Away. Many of Sydney's wealthy build resorts here, enjoying the vacation vibe of the place. Nearby Barrenjoey Lighthouse offers hiking opportunities and panoramic views of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Broken Bay, and Central Coast, providing unforgettable and stunning scenery!
◎ Address: Palm Beach, Ocean Road, Palm Beach NSW
◎ Transportation: Green Line ferry to Manly then bus no. 199 to Ocean Rd opp Palm Beach Rd. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: Palm Beach
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(From Barrenjoey Lighthouse, the view over "Palm Beach" is truly magnificent, reminding me of "The Neck" on "Bruny Island," both offering breathtaking landscapes [Photo by Andrew Xu via Flickr].)
14. Port Stephens
Known as the "Dolphin Watching Capital of Australia," Port Stephens boasts 26 golden beaches. Visitors can enjoy various water activities and get up close with marine life like dolphins and whales. Oysters, seafood, wine, and other local culinary delights are also featured. It's a favorite vacation spot for Australians!
◎ Address: Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre, Victoria Parade, NSW
◎ Recommended Activities: Port Stephens Day Tour | Dolphin & Sandboarding Tour
◎ Transportation: Recommend driving or take bus no. 100 to Donald St. (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia | Public Transport in Sydney)
◎ Official Website: Port Stephens
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
15. Hunter Valley
Hunter Valley is "Australia's oldest wine region," with over 120 wineries and gourmet restaurants. You can taste various wines, champagne, cheese, and also enjoy spa treatments or hot air ballooning with "Balloon Aloft." A perfect destination for a relaxing journey!
◎ Address: Hunter Valley Visitor Centre, Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin, NSW
◎ Transportation: No public transportation; travel via tour or self-drive (Find Car Hire Deals | Car rental in Australia)
◎ Recommended Activities: Hunter Valley Day Tour 1 | Day Tour 2 | Hot Air Ballooning
◎ Official Website: Hunter Valley
◎ Nearby Accommodation: Booking | Agoda | Hotels | Expedia (Compare & Save)
(Taking a hot air balloon ride over Hunter Valley has always been a popular activity in Sydney; Photo by VISITNSW)
Sydney Attractions Map
Lastly, I've compiled the top 15 recommended Sydney attractions along with "other Sydney attractions" on Google Maps. It includes lots of essential travel information, and you can toggle through the layers to view. Feel free to download and share.
Link: Sydney Tourist Attractions Map
That concludes the introduction to the top 15 recommended attractions in Sydney. In addition to these, other worth-visiting places include "Hyde Park," "Paddy's Markets," "Sydney Luna Park," "The Grounds of Alexandria," etc. Details will be covered in other travel guides. If you liked this article, please feel free to share it with others!