Sydney is a city that never runs out of things to do, whether you're a local looking to rediscover your backyard or a visitor ready to soak up the best of what this Harbour City has to offer. From markets bursting with character to hidden beaches and iconic hikes, here’s your guide to exploring Sydney like a pro.
1. Wander Through Sydney’s Markets
There’s no better way to get a taste of Sydney’s diverse culture than by visiting its markets. Each has its own vibe, whether you're after vintage fashion, fresh produce, or handmade crafts.
Paddy’s Market (Hay Street Market): A Sydney icon since 1834, Paddy’s has long been known for its eclectic mix of souvenirs, fashion, electronics, and fresh produce. Recently, the market has unveiled its rebranding to Hay Street Market, including a precinct with 48 food stalls from over 25 international cuisines. Open daily from early till late, this is the perfect stop for a casual lunch or a late-night bite.
Glebe Markets: Held every Saturday, this inner-west market is a go-to for vintage fashion, handmade jewellery, and indie art. You’ll find all the unique charm that makes the markets special, an eclectic mix of vintage clothing, local fashion designers, handmade jewellery, artisan crafts, and second-hand treasures from around the world, all set to a backdrop of live music and delicious fresh food.
Bondi Markets: Held at Bondi Beach Public School, the Bondi Markets offer two distinct experiences: a farmers market every Saturday with fresh produce, gourmet bites, and local goods, and a designer-focused market every Sunday featuring original fashion, handmade jewellery, art, and vintage treasures. On the first Sunday of each month, don’t miss the Vintage & Pre-Loved Pop-Up alongside the regular stalls.
Carriageworks Farmers Market: Experience the essence of Sydney’s culinary scene at the weekly Carriageworks Farmers Market, a beloved Saturday ritual that brings together the best seasonal produce and artisanal goods from across NSW. From farm-fresh vegetables and organic meats to handmade pastries and freshly cut flowers, it’s a haven for passionate foodies. Set in the historic Carriageworks precinct, it’s the perfect blend of culture, community, and flavour.
2. Catch a Breathtaking Sunset
Sydney sunsets are something special, especially when you know where to go. These spots offer some of the most stunning views across the city and harbour.
La Perouse – La Perouse offers some of Sydney’s most breathtaking sunset views, especially from the area around Bare Island. This historic fort, connected to the mainland by a footbridge, provides an ideal vantage point to watch the sky transform into vibrant hues of pink and orange as the sun sets over Botany Bay. The light reflecting off the water surrounding the bridge creates a mesmerizing scene, making it a favorite spot for photographers and sunset enthusiasts alike.
Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair – For a picture-perfect Sydney sunset, head to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, perched at the edge of the Royal Botanic Garden. From this iconic sandstone lookout, you’ll catch panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House bathed in golden light as the sun dips behind the city skyline. Be sure to arrive early to grab a spot as it's a popular (and unforgettable) way to end the day.
Observatory Hill – Observatory Hill in Millers Point offers one of Sydney’s most picturesque sunset experiences. Perched atop one of the city's highest points, it provides sweeping views of the Harbour Bridge and city skyline, making it an ideal spot for a sunset picnic.
Berry’s Bay Lookout – Tucked away in Waverton, this lookout offers a rare, peaceful vantage point to watch Sydney’s sunset without the usual crowds. From this intimate spot, you’ll see the Harbour Bridge framed by lush greenery and shimmering water. It’s the kind of place where you can truly pause, breathe, and soak in the harbour’s beauty as day turns into night.
3. Soak Up the Sun at These Beautiful Beaches
Sydney’s beach game is strong, but there’s more to explore beyond Bondi. These picks range from iconic surf beaches to hidden harbour coves.
Milk Beach – Tucked away in the quiet Hermit Bay, Milk Beach is a hidden gem known for its calm waters and spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and city skyline. Unlike the more crowded ocean beaches, it offers a peaceful harbour-side swimming experience perfect for relaxing away from the hustle.
Bronte Beach – Within close distance to Bondi, Bronte stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere and charming village feel. It has a natural ocean pool, grassy picnic areas, and a relaxed café scene — ideal for those looking for a laid-back day with easy beach access, great for swimmers and surfers alike.
Freshwater Beach – Nestled between two headlands, Freshwater Beach is a family-friendly haven that seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern amenities. At its northern end, you'll find the Freshwater Rock Pool, an iconic 50-meter ocean pool built in 1925, offering a safe and scenic spot for swimmers. The beach is also historically significant as the site where Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku introduced surfboard riding to Australia in 1915, commemorated by a statue on the headland.
Hyams Beach – While technically outside Sydney in Jervis Bay, Hyams Beach is famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world and incredibly clear, turquoise water. It’s perfect for day-trippers seeking a tropical-feel beach that’s strikingly different from typical Sydney sands.
4. Explore Sydney’s Scenic Walking Trails
For nature lovers, Sydney offers a mix of coastal walks and lush bushland trails, all within reach of the city.
Grand Canyon Walking Track (Blue Mountains) – This iconic loop trail takes you through a lush rainforest canyon, complete with waterfalls, cliffside steps, and rock pools. What makes it special is the dramatic contrast between narrow canyon walls and towering trees, offering a surprisingly immersive wilderness experience just two hours from the city.
America Bay Walking Track (Ku-ring-gai Chase NP) – This peaceful walk ends at America Bay, a secluded spot with stunning views over Pittwater and native Aboriginal rock engravings along the way. It’s a mix of history, nature, and breathtaking water vistas that few other Sydney hikes offer.
Wattamolla to Eagle Rock (Royal National Park) – This coastal walk combines sandy beaches, cliffs, and tidal pools, ending at Eagle Rock, a huge sea cave formation. It’s unique for the chance to explore diverse coastal landscapes in one hike, plus the chance to swim in hidden lagoons.
Bondi to Coogee Walk – Famous worldwide, this cliff-top trail links several beautiful beaches and coves, with ocean pools, cafes, and parks along the way. This is a must-do for the vibrant blend of urban beach culture and stunning natural scenery, all within a convenient city setting.
5. Discover World-Class Art in Sydney’s Museums
Sydney’s art scene is thriving, with both classic and contemporary galleries that are completely free to visit.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) – Located right on Circular Quay, the MCA is Sydney’s premier venue for contemporary art, showcasing cutting-edge works by Australian and international artists. What makes this art gallery particularly amazing is its commitment to Indigenous and emerging artists, making it a dynamic space where traditional meets avant-garde.
White Rabbit Gallery – This privately owned gallery in Chippendale houses one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary Chinese art. In a cool converted warehouse, it offers visitors a rare glimpse into modern China’s artistic scene, with thought-provoking exhibitions that explore cultural and political themes.
Art Gallery of NSW – Set in a stunning historic building in The Domain, AGNSW features a vast collection of Australian, European, and Asian art. AGNSW blends classic and contemporary works alongside beautiful landscaped gardens, creating a perfect cultural and outdoor experience.
