This steel arch bridge spans approximately 500 meters across the harbour, connecting the Central Business District (CBD) to North Sydney. Most of Sydney’s top attractions are centred around the area between the Central Business District (CBD) and inner south-eastern suburbs towards Bondi Beach. In the spirit of reconciliation Virgin Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, sky and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today. It's big enough for a whole week of exploring, but you can still get a taste of the wilderness even on a day trip.
A stirring 21-gun salute marks midday, followed by the breathtaking aerial acrobatics of the Royal Australian Airforce as they conduct a high-octane fast jet flypast. The Royal Australian Navy HMAS Canberra takes centre stage in Sydney Harbour before the Ferrython, a crowd favourite, sees our iconic ferry fleet racing at double speed for line honours. Maritime Mayhem will entertain with fast and furious jet-ski performances, daredevil flyboard tricks and crazy tugboat stunts. On 26 January, Sydney comes alive with locals and indoor attractions in Sydney visitors alike celebrating the Aussie way of life right in the middle of summer. With free events on the harbour, family festivities, boat races and a general vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. A grey, rainy day sets the scene for a ghostly tour of Sydney’s darker side.
For the ultimate way to see Sydney Harbour, book this Sydney Harbour Tour by helicopter here. There are multiple free viewpoints around Sydney where you can catch a glimpse of the famous Harbour Bridge. One of the most famous is Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, which we’ll talk about in a bit, but you can also get great views just by hanging out in Circular Quay and while exploring the Opera House. And if you’re worried about fitting it all in, you can always take this half-day private sightseeing tour. It includes all of the must-see places in Sydney like the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, as well as taking you to Bondi Beach.
This patch of grass at the southern end of Royal National Park has an incredibly view of the Sea Cliff Bridge and Wollongong in the distance. The figure of 8 pools in Royal National Park are certainly picturesque, but are set on a very dangerous section of coastline where the waves can easily drag you out to sea if you try this at high tide. It then carries along the cliff side to Eagle Rock and a waterfall that goes straight into the sea. La Perouse is a picturesque coastal area just 20 minutes south-east of the CBD. One of unique things to see here is Bare Island, a small islet with a fort built on it. The viewpoint from West Head is the start of the trail to Resolute and Mackerel Beach, one of our favourites.
Golden Age Cinema and Bar was first built in 1940 when it was owned by Paramount Pictures and screened everything from newsreels to locally produced films. Today’s reimagined venue, which pays tribute to its Art Deco roots, opened in 2013 and transports visitors back to the Golden Age of cinema itself. The posties on the run from Brooklyn, located one hour’s drive from Sydney’s CBD, travel a plum route, delivering to small communities that can’t be reached by land. To spend a day in their shoes, dropping off the odd letter along the way, members of the public are invited to join the Riverboat Postman on the Hawkesbury River for their very own ride. There’s a great alternative to BridgeClimb Sydney that involves schlepping up a stack of steps inside one of those decorative stone pillars. The views from the Pylon Lookout aren’t quite as good as those from the top of the bridge, but they’re no shabby imitation.
Safety is a top priority, with climbers provided with harnesses attached to the bridge. Participants must be at least eight to join the climb, ensuring it’s a family-friendly adventure. Besides being Australia’s largest city, there are many reasons why it’s also the most visited. For one thing, most international flights will either fly in to here, especialy if you’re planning on exploring the East Coast. When it comes to getting around, the CBD is very walkable and for the most part flat.
These hidden beaches provide a perfect escape from the city’s crowded shores, whether you’re seeking a quiet, relaxing spot or a new adventure. Regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cockatoo Island is a beautiful island situated on Sydney Harbor that was once used as a penal establishment during 1839. It is the most-loved tourist attraction renowned for its distinctive terrain, heritage buildings, and picturesque views. People are drawn to this attraction due to its waterfront cafes, heritage and campground accommodations, picnic spots, exciting seasonal events, and guided history and paranormal tours. Sydney is one of the world’s most exciting cities to explore, offering a perfect mix of iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches, harbour experiences, culture, food, and outdoor adventure.
On a clear day, the vistas stretch from the golden beaches of the Eastern Suburbs to the distant Blue Mountains. Starting with the 4D experience – a short film giving you a bird’s-eye view of the city – the visit then takes you to the observation deck, 250 metres above ground. Adrenaline junkies should opt for the guided Skywalk – which circumnavigates the tower along an outside ledge – and those interested in a tipple with an unrivalled panorama should head to Bar 83. The gallery is only a 15min walk from the city centre and admission is free, as are the daily guided tours. Stop for lunch or a coffee at the on-site restaurant, or visit on a Wednesday evening until 10pm for Art After Hours for celebrity talks, music, performances and other special events.
All our favourite excursions are on our day trips from Sydney guide. A great way to see Sydney Harbour and the iconic buildings that surround is from one of the many rooftop bars in the city. The Chinese Garden of Friendship is a heritage-listed tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. It houses high-end artisanal shops, including Haigh’s Chocolates, which is my favourite chocolate anywhere in the world. There are few better spots for lunch on the harbour than Watsons Bay. This thin stretch of sand, backed by beautiful houses, has three excellent eating options.
Swimming in ocean rock pools at sunrise is a cherished Aussie ritual that offers a calm, communal, and energising experience. Notable spots like Mahon Pool, Bronte Baths, and Wylie’s Baths provide unique settings among exposed rock formations and stunning cliffside views. These locations are ideal for a refreshing morning swim followed by relaxation. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Art Gallery of NSW provides a rich and engaging cultural experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore this heritage-listed site and its diverse array of artworks.
There’s also a technology lab, music room with piano for practice and rehearsals, community and meeting rooms, and a dedicated children’s area to discover. When the results of the vote were announced in favour of marriage equality for LGBTIQ people, the 30,000-strong crowd erupted in relief and jubilation. The Grace Hotel is a historic landmark just a 4-minute walk from QVB and Wynyard Light Rail. In just over an hour, you can wander amongst deep forests in the Royal National Park, hike to hidden beaches in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, or look for waterfalls in the Blue Mountains. One of the best ways to capture them is on the Sky Safari cable car – a scenic aerial ride over the zoo with breathtaking views along the way.
We've also included some unmissable things to do just outside the city too. Unique experiences to share with your partner, friends, family or colleagues. Later tenants used the building for office space, and the structure began to fall into decay during the Great Depression. More commonly referred to as the QVB, the Queen Victoria Building is a five-story shopping center that fills an entire city block and houses nearly 200 retailers. Built by architect George McRae in 1898, the building was designed as a marketplace and concert hall. Situated between the Harbour Bridge and the northern edge of Sydney’s Central Business District, The Rocks is the city’s oldest neighborhood.
30 BEST Places to Visit in Sydney 2026 Guide
·
6 min read
