Top things to do in Sydney
It only seemed fair that after spending the last two weeks blogging about how wonderful the city of Melbourne is that I gave Sydney a bit of love too. Now the rivalry between these two cities has been well reported but I’m not here to weigh in on that, just share some of the best places for you to visit if you happen to be in Sydney this weekend.
Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge
Welcoming more than 8.2 million visitors each year, the Sydney Opera House is a not to be missed Sydney site. Experience the Opera House up close and personal in a small group tour. Head behind the scenes to discover the areas not usually open to the public and learn more about the World Heritage listed building. Perhaps one of the most identifiable bridges in the world, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a feat of engineering. Built in 1923, the bridge remains the largest steel arch bridge in the world and has become an iconic site for both Sydney and Australia. Pose for a picture with the incredible structure or test your bravery with the famous BridgeClimb.
Royal Botanic Gardens
A green oasis in the middle of a city surrounded by sea! The Royal Botanic Gardens are a fantastic place to relax and unwind. Discover plants and flowers from around the world and explore the botanical history of Australia’s oldest botanic garden. Explore the garden on your own or join a tour to make sure you don’t miss a thing! The Botanic Gardens also run Aboriginal Heritage tours where you can learn about the areas traditional owners and the importance of many of these plants for survival.
Darling Harbour
Sydney comes alive in Darling Harbour. Just a short ferry ride from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour is bustling with boutique cafes, bars and restaurants. The recent addition of the convention centre has seen its popularity increase as people flock there to attend events and shows. Recent renovations in the area has seen new life springing in the area. You’ll also find key tourist attractions such as Sea Life Aquarium and Madam Tussauds Wax Museum here. Visit the Australian National Maritime Museum to learn about Australia’s maritime history and head on board retired Navy submarine the HMAS Onslow.
Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo is a leader in international animal preservation and conservation. Situated on the shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga is home to over 4000 animals from 350 species. You’ll not only get to see these animals up close but learn about the ways in which you can help species thrive in the wild. See animals from a whole new height at the Taronga Wild Ropes course. The course will take you right over zoo paths and animal enclosures. Wave down at emu and wallaby while you balance across suspension bridges and climbing walls. Plus, every visit you make to Taronga Zoo directly helps wildlife conservation!
Art Gallery of New South Wales
The Art Gallery of New South Wales was established in 1871 and boasts an extensive collection of international and Australian artists. Explore four levels of incredible artwork and learn about the artists that have changed the ways we see art today. The collection includes a wide range of mediums from paintings to sculptures, traditional Indigenous carvings to photography. The Art Gallery of NSW will thrill any visitor and make an art buff out of even the least artistic of people!
Chinese Garden of Friendship
What better to do on a trip with friends than visit the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Escape the hustle and bustle of Sydney and find instant tranquillity. Sit and listen to babbling streams and watch as koi dart under the water surface. The garden was designed by Sydney’s sister city, Guangzhou, in 1988 and is a wonderful afternoon activity after a busy day exploring.
