Sydney is an iconic destination for a stylish metropolitan break by the sea. With an array of stunning sights to see and delicious cuisines to eat, it is no surprise why this city has become such a popular choice for travelers during an Australia trip.
The harbor that hugs the city's coastline is home to jaw-dropping views and world-class landmarks, including the Opera House. You can even take a cruise around the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Mrs Macquarie's Chair for an incomparable view.
1. Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House is one of the world's great performing arts centres and a must-visit attraction for any tourist visiting Sydney. The sail-inspired building – designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon – is a soaring presence on Bennelong Point overlooking Sydney Harbour.
It consists of six performance venues (including Concert Hall) that cater to different genres of music, opera, and theatre. There are also restaurants and studios spread throughout this iconic landmark.
The Opera House is a must-see attraction for tourists visiting Sydney, and it offers a number of activities to suit every budget. You can enjoy a guided tour of the building, take a cruise around it, or attend a performance at the Opera House.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia and has been a popular tourist attraction since it was built. The bridge is the world’s largest steel arch bridge and spans a beautiful natural harbour.
The 134-meter-high bridge connects Sydney’s Central Business District with the North Shore over the water. It was designed and planned by Dorman Long & Co of Middlesbrough, England.
A walk across the bridge is an excellent way to take in the views of Sydney Harbour. You can start at the pedestrian crossing near the Australian Heritage Hotel on Cumberland Street in the historic Rocks, and follow the stairs up to the south-eastern Pylon Lookout for a spectacular view of the city.
The bridge also features a cycleway on the western side, which is accessible near the Sydney Observatory. This wonderful heritage-listed building boasts telescopes that can be used for stargazing.
3. Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. It is a bustling waterfront that buzzes with green-and-yellow ferries pulling in and out of Circular Quay, sleek tourist craft and fully rigged tall ships passing by.
The area is also home to an array of world-class attractions, including museums, theaters and entertainment venues. Take a stroll past fizzing fountains along the paved waterfront promenade or gaze across the water at Sydney’s skyline.
Explore Sydney Harbour by foot, ferry or scenic cruise. Stay in a hotel with views of the city’s iconic landmarks or sample regional specialties aboard a 78-foot cruiser.
4. Barangaroo
Barangaroo is a beautiful waterfront area that you should definitely visit when visiting Sydney Harbour. It features scenic parkland, great views, a wide promenade and interesting architecture.
The area was once the home of a busy commercial port, with wharves and stevedoring operations at Millers Point. The site was redeveloped into a mixed-use precinct in 2006.
In recent years, the area has seen an increase in tourists and has become one of the most exciting upcoming destinations in Sydney. There are plenty of things to do and see in the area, including a variety of restaurants and shopping.
The area is also home to a number of public art works. In particular, the seven-storey Shell Wall 2015 is a stunning piece of work that pays homage to traditional shell middens. It’s a collaboration between Wiradjuri/Kamilaroi artist Jonathan Jones and Bidjigal/Eora elder Esme Timbery.
5. Australian National Maritime Museum
The Australian National Maritime Museum (known as the ANMM) is an indoor/outdoor museum that reveals Australia’s history with the sea. It is federally owned and has a range of exhibitions, including an interactive Action Stations experience that explores the inner workings of the navy.
Its main galleries include a range of stories about migration, ocean science, exploration and arts and culture. A visit here is a must-see for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to learn more about how Australia has been affected by it.
The Big Ticket gives access to the entire museum, including the naval destroyer HMAS Vampire, Oberon Class submarine and replica of Captain Cook’s ship Endeavour. It also includes entry to the Cape Bowling Green lighthouse and Kids on Deck program, which is fun for kids.
