Headed to Australia and looking for the best way to spend 5 days in Sydney?! Keep on reading – this Sydney itinerary is exactly what you’re looking for.
Imagine cruising through Sydney Harbor and walking over the stunning Harbour Bridge. Relaxing at iconic sandy beaches and shopping in surf towns. Taking a dip in the Bondi Icebergs and grabbing an acai bowl afterwards. Oh, and you can’t forget about gorgeous views of the Sydney Opera House! The perfect 5 day Sydney itinerary coming right up!
Sydney is quite easily one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s vibrant and cosmopolitan and just downright gorgeous. There’s over 100 beaches along its coastline, it’s a huge melting pot of cultures (which I love), and a true hub for arts and entertainment. With gardens and parks and an easy transportation system, it’s not hard to fall in love.
I’ve been wanting to visit Sydney for as long as I can remember. The dream was so big and all-consuming at one point that I actually almost studied abroad in Australia during college (which didn’t end up happening unfortunately).
So when I had some time off and flights were actually decent, I decided to just go for it! I honestly hadn’t expected to visit Sydney (and Australia in general) for a bunch more years, but hey, I’m not complaining! My 5 days in Sydney were a true highlight of my year, and I’m already scheming how I can get back to Australia sooner than later.
Sydney Itinerary At-A-Glance
- Day 1: Iconic Sydney Attractions
- Day 2: Manly, Chinatown, and Darling Harbor
- Day 3: Day Trip from Sydney
- Day 4: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
- Day 5: Bondi Beach Day
So let’s get to it – the most perfect 5 day Sydney itinerary coming right up! But first, some important logistics!
5 Days in Sydney Itinerary Logistics
Where is Sydney and How to Get There
Sydney is located on the southeastern coast of AUSTRALIA (yes, I can’t believe I finally made it there – my 6th continent!). It’s actually the capital city of New South Wales, just like Melbourne is of Victoria.
The city borders the Tasman Sea, and is built around one of the world’s largest natural harbors, Port Jackson (what we know as the Sydney Harbor). Meaning tons and tons of gorgeous water views along the coastline, with lots of national parks and reserves.
Sydney is *way* larger than most people think, but don’t worry – this Sydney itinerary focuses on what you wanna see – the CBD (with the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge), the stunning beaches, and of course some time for a day trip or two! Don’t worry, I gotchu! :p
The city isn’t far from scenic lookouts and waterfalls of the Blue Mountains, the wine region of Hunter Valley, and sandy beaches of Port Stephens – meaning tons of day trip ideas if you wanna extend your 5 day Sydney itinerary into even longer!
And in terms of Australian geography, Sydney sits between Brisbane (which is 940 km north) and Melbourne (~875 km southwest). It’s on the eastern coast, while Perth is all the way on the western coast of the continent, over 3,000km away. Sydney is also east of Adelaide and way south of Cairns. It’s downright impossible to see all of Australia in one trip, so just plan to come back. That’s what I plan to do!
Flying to Sydney
Most international visitors arrive in Australia via Sydney, at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD), the primary international and domestic airport of the city. Such a long name, but most people just call it Sydney Airport, haha.
And boy oh boy is it busy – makes sense since it’s Australia’s busiest airport, with more than 43 million passengers in the last year alone.
International Flights: Thankfully, there’s tons of international airlines with direct flights worldwide. Note that direct services typically depart from major cities on the west coast of the US and in Texas, so if you’re coming from the midwest or East Coast (or a smaller city), you’ll undoubtedly need to connect. But hey, two trips in one anyone?! A stop in California ain’t that horrible, haha.
Coming from the States, most flights leave at night, meaning you arrive in Australia early in the morning. You’ll be crossing the International Date Line, therefore losing an ENTIRE day while traveling (for example, leaving the States on a Thursday will get you there on Saturday). Don’t worry, you’ll gain this time back when you fly home (and actually arrive home before you even left – that time difference is wild!)!
And I’m sorry to say, but you won’t get a stamp on your passport (something I was super sad about). The country did away with paper stamps back in 2012, and now uses the SmartGate System, which uses facial recognition technology and your passport’s electronic chip.
Regardless of where you’re coming from, it’ll be a long flight. Australia isn’t close to anywhere else in the world, besides New Zealand (which is still a 3 hour flight away) and Bali, a very popular place for Aussies to visit (~6 hour flight).
Here’s some popular cities around the world with direct flights to give you an idea of how long it’ll take:
- Auckland: ~3 hours
- Bali: ~6 hours
- Singapore: ~7 hours
- Honolulu, Hawaii: ~10 hours
- Tokyo: ~10 hours
- Bangkok: ~10 hours
- Seoul: ~11 hours
- Dubai: ~14 hours
- San Francisco/Los Angeles: ~15 hours
- Vancouver: ~15 hours
- Dallas/Fort Worth: ~17 hours
Unfortunately there’s no direct flights from Europe to Sydney, so you’ll need to connect in either Dubai or Singapore. So, so very long. But I promise the long flight/s are worth it – this is Australia we’re talking about!
For reference, our direct 15-hour flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Sydney were about $1k roundtrip, which we thought was pretty reasonable! Definitely shop around because two girls we met each paid over $2k!
Domestic Flights: Already in Australia? You can easily fly to Sydney from elsewhere in the country! Having just spent 5 days in Melbourne, we took a short 50 minute flight to Sydney, and it couldn’t have been easier.
Check out Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Jetstar (a popular budget airline in Australia); they all operate frequent domestic flights. We got lucky and found roundtrip flights from Melbourne to Sydney for under $150!
Once you land in Sydney, you can easily reach the city center via the Airport Link train service, which only takes 13 minutes (yes, super precise!). Or you can call a taxi or rideshare like we did since we were overly exhausted from our 15 HOUR flight – understandable! (Uber and DiDi are both popular here.)
Driving to Sydney
East Coast road trips are super popular in Australia – so if that’s you (lucky duck!), you may find yourself driving to Sydney! Just remember that Australia is downright HUGE, so plan to make plenty and plenty of stops between the larger cities.
For reference, Melbourne is over a 9 hour drive away (south), while Byron Bay and Brisbane are just as far in the opposite direction (~8 hours and 10 hours respectively). There’s tons to do in between, so I promise you’ll never be bored!
Public Transportation to Sydney
Since Sydney is such a major destination in Australia, it’s well-connected by both bus and train. From Melbourne (Southern Cross Station) to Sydney (Central Station), it’ll take ~12 hours on a regular intercity train, and ~11 hours via a comfortable night train. There’s also nonstop train service from Brisbane (14 hours), even longer, phew! You can get from other Australian cities by taking multiple trains/buses.
If you don’t have all the time in the world, I’d honestly just fly, haha. While there’s picturesque views of the countryside, there’s unfortunately no coastline, so I’d much prefer the hour-long flight.
How to Get Around During your 5 Days in Sydney
On Foot: Sydney’s CBD (Central Business District) is super walkable, and we definitely took advantage of that. We walked SO much during our 5 days in Sydney – definitely wear your comfy shoes (leave the strappy heels at home). You can see so many Sydney highlights by walking – the Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden, Harbour Bridge, The Rocks Market, Circular Quay, etc.
You’ll need to find other ways to get to Manly (the ferry’s super easy) and Bondi (an Uber is easiest), and unless you’re up for a long walk, I’d opt for public transit or ride shares to Darling Harbor, Chinatown, and Surrey Hills. Once you get there, all the neighborhoods are super walkable.
Public Transit
Sydney’s super lucky to have an extensive public transit system — there’s trains, buses, a light rail, metro, and even ferries!
Opal Card: Planning to take public transit in Sydney? Grab an Opal card (a reusable transit card) on the first of your 5 days in Sydney to make it extra easy (or you can always just buy individual tickets each and every time, but how annoying!).
Don’t forget to tap your Opal card when you board and again when you disembark! Don’t want extra funds mistakenly getting used!
Here are the most popular public transit systems you’ll wanna be familiar with for your 5 days in Sydney:
- Train: A super efficient way to get around the city! The City Circle train connects to the harbor ferries at Circular Quay, the retail precinct around Town Hall Station, and Central Station. There’s even inter-city service to the Blue Mountains! Note that there’s no train service between midnight and 4:30am, so you’ll need to take the NightRide bus instead.
- Light rail: There’s three main lines throughout the city; L1 (running from Central Station through harbourside Pyrmont to the inner-west suburb of Dulwich Hill) and L2 and L3 that depart from Circular Quay towards Central Station on the way to the city’s eastern suburbs. You’ll probably only use L2 and L3, as they make stops in the popular tourist areas.
- Public Buses: And then there’s the bus! Told you Sydney’s got a lot of public transit (although to be honest, I got a bit confused due to all of the different options, haha). Most buses travel through the city from either Wynyard or Circular Quay and head to the suburbs, beaches, and other nearby spots.
And remember – if you get confused; just ask someone. Aussies are super friendly and more than likely to help you get where you’re going.
Ferries: Sydney is located right on the water, and just like Seattle, Washington, there’s a pretty great ferry system over here. Ferries depart from Circular Quay (near the Opera House) and operate around Sydney Harbor, cruising to popular spots like Manly, Luna Park, Darling Harbour, and even the Taronga Zoo!
Some of the best views of the Sydney Opera House are here from the ferry! So even if you’re not using it as transportation per say, I still recommend hopping on to get some iconic shots from the water.
Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus: There’s also the hop-on, hop-off bus if you want something super simple. It operates like other hop-on, hop-off buses around the world, with an open-top double-decker bus taking you to all the iconic spots you need to see on your Sydney itinerary.
The ticket includes two routes and stops at all major landmarks – I suggest riding the entire loop and then deciding where you wanna get off.
Ride Shares: We took a few Ubers when we didn’t feel like figuring out public transport and/or when our feet hurt from walking, haha. We *did* walk over 20k steps our first day! Don’t judge — this is vacation after all!
In Sydney you’ll find Uber and Didi, as well as a local operator named GoCatch. Ride shares were super fairly priced and definitely less expensive than at home in San Francisco (thankfully)!
Driving in Sydney: Since we didn’t rent a car, we primarily navigated Sydney by foot, public transit, and the occasional rideshare. I really don’t think a car is necessary if you’re following this Sydney itinerary, as everything is easily accessible by local transport, walking, or guided tour.
The only real reason to rent a car is if you’re planning to stay a while and do a whole bunch of day trips, or if you’re doing a much longer east coast Australian road trip… lucky! Just be prepared for traffic in the CBD and know parking and tolls are kinda pricey. And of course you’ll need to drive on the left side of the road (opposite than much of the world).
Day tours: In order to make our Sydney itinerary as flawless as possible, we booked a few day trips with local operators, just like we did in Melbourne!
Sometimes leaving the driving and navigating in a new place is the easiest option, especially when you don’t know the area. We booked tours to the Blue Mountains and to the Australian Reptile Park (where we saw the cuddliest koalas).
When to Plan Your Sydney Itinerary (Weather and Crowds)
Since Australia’s in the Southern Hemisphere, it experiences opposite seasons than both the United States and Europe. This means that when it’s our winter here in the States, it’s summer over in Australia. Amazing if you wanna escape the cold! When researching, I highly recommend searching by month instead of season, haha – it gets confusing!
Sydney experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Overall, it’s got warm summers, mild autumns and springs, and relatively mild winters. Meaning there’s no horrible time to visit! But of course I’m exceptionally wordy and wanna give you all the info, because when you’re planning a bucket list trip (like to AUSTRALIA!), you probably wanna go when you’ve got the highest chance of nice weather.
The most popular time to visit is from October to March (summer in Australia!). And the most expensive month to travel is January – this is when the whole of Australia is on holiday and everyone’s traveling within the country.
December to February: Summer (High Season)
December through February is summer in Australia – it’s the best time for hot, sunny weather! Think cruises in the harbor, drinks by the Opera House, and surfing and tanning at the beach. Expect temps to range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with long days, plenty of sunshine, and the occasional heatwave and warm thunderstorm.
HOWEVER, December to January is the busiest time as it’s summer break for students in Australia (because opposite seasons). Meaning peak prices.
And if you’re thinking of visiting for the famous New Year’s Eve fireworks, well, you should’ve booked like yesterday, haha. It’s one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world, so, yea – you’ll wanna plan that trip months and months and months in advance.
Unfortunately, humidity levels have been creeping up pretty high the last few years – giving the city a kinda tropical feel (which the locals don’t love; I don’t blame them – that humidity is harsh). If you’ve ever been to Colombia or Singapore in the summer you know what I’m talking about. While this kinda sucks, just go in expecting some sweaty days, stay hydrated, find some AC, and you’ll be fine.
If I had to choose, I’d say mid-February into early March is the best time to visit Sydney. Students are back in school, Christmas holidays are well over, and temps have started to cool off (a bit).
For reference, we spent our 5 days in Sydney in mid-February. Yes, it was humid and scorching hot at times, but we made the most of it and found AC when we were desperate. We also experienced a crazy rain storm and actually had to cancel our Blue Mountains day tour… still kinda sad about that!
March to May and September to November: Fall/Spring (Shoulder Seasons)
The shoulder seasons (fall and spring) see mild temperatures, less tourists, and lower airfare prices.
Autumn (March to May) is mild and pleasant, with gradually decreasing temps and humidity (thank goodness!). Temps are between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day, with cooler evenings. Definitely pack some layers for sure! Note that the wettest months are usually from March to June, so… come prepared for that as well.
There’s also Vivid Sydney from May to June, an annual festival of lights, music, and eclectic ideas! You’ll love this time of year if you’re into creative art installations – there’s even art projections onto the Opera House.
Spring (September to November) is mild and sunny, with temps gradually warming up between 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). It’s the perfect time to come for vibrant greenery and blooming flowers, plus spring marks the beginning of whale watching season along the coast (humpback whales migrate here!).
Don’t miss Sculpture by the Sea from October-November, which is basically an outdoor sculpture exhibition held along the coastal walk between Bondi Beach and Tamarama Beach.
June to August: Winter (Low Season)
Wanna visit without all the tourists and save some cash? Come in Sydney’s winter between June and August. Thankfully the weather’s pretty mild, with temps ranging from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F) – haha yea, it’s not that cold at all. But early mornings and evenings can get quite chilly, so definitely bring your jacket.
Rainfall is at its peak in June and the coldest month is in July (which is so weird because I always think of July as hot hot hot). Snow is very uncommon, but it’s happened a few times in the past – maybe you’ll get lucky!
And June is when the Sydney Film Festival takes place, one of the longest-running film festivals in the world!
Where to Stay in Sydney
First timers to Sydney typically stay in the CBD, Darling Harbor, or The Rocks/Circular Quay. And that’s exactly where I recommend booking accommodation so you’re near all the iconic Sydney highlights.
We decided to stay 3 nights in Darling Harbor (at Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour) and 2 nights in Bondi Beach (at QT Bondi – highly recommended) which was the perfect combo of buzzy city life and laid-back beach fun.
The Rocks and Circular Quay
These two areas are literally a five minute walk from each other, so definitely consider both! They’re very central and walkable with public transit, and the best areas to stay in for all that iconic Sydney sightseeing. I mean, the Opera House and Harbor Bridge are right here (probably the two most sought after attractions on any Sydney itinerary).
Circular Quay (pronounced “Key”) is the major transport hub for buses, trains, and ferries. It’s got the poshest hotels in all of Sydney, with Intercontinental Sydney and Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbor being great hotel options.
The Rocks is a renovated historic neighborhood right near Sydney Harbor known for its cobblestone streets, historic heritage buildings, fantastic views, and tons of trendy bars and classy bistros. I heard great things about Harbor Rocks Hotel, Pier One Sydney Harbor, and Park Hyatt Sydney.
Central Business District (CBD)
The Central Business District is basically the downtown area of Sydney, referred to in Australia as the CBD.
By staying in the CBD you’re kinda in the middle of it all; you can easily walk to Darling Harbor, The Rocks, Circular Quay, and Kings Cross (if you’re looking for some nightlife). George Street, which runs north-south through the CBD, always has lots going on and we found ourselves here plenty of times!
Check out QT Sydney (we almost stayed here!), Kimpton Margot Sydney, and Hilton Sydney – all right in the heart of downtown and close to oh so much.
Darling Harbor
This is where we stayed for the majority of our time in Sydney! Darling Harbor is a waterfront area with lots of entertainment venues, attractions (including the Saturday night fireworks), with easy access to Chinatown and George Street (a major shopping street). It’s the quieter, family-friendly choice of the city center.
We spent 3 nights at the Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour, and the hotel was oh so hip and fun with a stylish and modern ambiance. The rooftop pool and bar was such a vibe with its leafy terrace and colorful pool area.
Other hotels we contemplated in Darling Harbor were Novotel Darling Harbor and West Hotel Sydney nearby.
To be honest, if I were to plan another trip to Sydney, I think I’d stay closer to the iconic Opera House as I found myself wishing for easier access (we typically walked from Darling Harbor and it was about a 25 minute trek).
Other options: You can also stay in Manly, Bondi Beach (which we did for two nights!), and Surry Hills. BUT I recommend staying at one of the above (CBD, Darling Harbor, The Rocks) for at least a few nights so you’re not too far from the main highlights of Sydney. You need to take a ferry and/or train from Manly and Bondi to Sydney’s main attractions, so I’d refrain from spending all your time there.
I heard Surrey Hills is fun as it’s trendy and eclectic and full of young people, but it’s further from the Opera House and Harbor Bridge so we decided against it.
On the flip side, I wouldn’t recommend basing yourself out of King’s Cross. While there’s lots of leafy roads and cool cafes, it’s known for its sleazy, seedy vibes, especially at night. No thanks.
Additional Sydney Itinerary FAQs
Local Currency in Sydney: Like the rest of Australia, Sydney uses the Australian Dollar, written as AUD. At the time of writing (April 2024), 1 Australian Dollar (AUD) is equivalent to ~$.65 cents USD (or $1 USD = ~ $1.50 AUD).
Since the Australian Dollar is pretty weak compared to the United States Dollar, it feels like everything is about 30% off or so! Although in order to easily convert from AUD to USD on the go, I simply used 25% off in my head.
And we didn’t need cash once! Everywhere we went (restaurants, bars, markets, etc) all took cards, although I really wanted to see what their paper money looked like!
Note that tipping is entirely voluntary in Australia – staff are paid a livable wage and don’t live off of tips. If you feel service was extraordinary, 10% is customary (but it’s never expected).
Language in Sydney: Australians speak English (!) with a distinct Australian accent.
And why do Aussies speak English despite being so far from England? Two words – British colonization. Despite its accent and slang, the language remains rooted in its British origins.
But just because English is spoken, doesn’t mean you’ll be able to easily understand everything. Aussies typically use a lot of unique Australian slang and expressions. Even though my friend and I are native English speakers, we definitely had a hard time understanding some of their unique phrases! A few common ones (although there’s tons more):
- Bin: Garbage
- Dunny: Bathroom
- G’day: Short for “Good day”; commonly used as a friendly greeting.
- Mate: friend or acquaintance
- Arvo: Afternoon. “See you in the arvo!”
- Barbie: Barbecue
- Brekkie: Breakfast
- Maccas: McDonald’s
- Aussie: Australian
- Cuppa: A cup of tea or coffee
- Sunnies: Sunglasses
Is 5 days enough in Sydney? I think yes, 5 days in Sydney is the perfect amount of time! Personally, I felt pretty satisfied with our Sydney itinerary, although I do wish we were able to tack on an extra day since our day trip to the Blue Mountains was canceled due to a freak rainstorm.
With 5 days in Sydney, you can spend a full day around the Opera House, a few days at some nearby beach neighborhoods, and taking day trips like we did. You’d be surprised how much you can squeeze in, even if you’ve only got time for one day in Sydney (maybe you’re on a cruise or doing a whirlwind trip around Australia!).
Visas to Australia: If you’re coming from the USA, you NEED a visa. It’s super simple to get and only takes a day or so to get approved (mine came in less than 10 minutes after applying). You’ll need to download the Australian ETA app on your phone and fill out the application (plus pay any associated fees – ours was only $20AUD).
We weren’t asked to show our Australian Visa at any point during security or upon entering the country, but I have a feeling they’re electronically attached to the passport number used on the application. Not entirely sure, but I’d hate to show up at the airport only to be turned away after a 15 hour flight, so I’d apply for it regardless. Get official Visa info here.
The sun is crazy STRONG here: There’s a legit hole in the ozone layer in Australia (true story), so PLEASE OH PLEASE wear your sunscreen (even if you never burn in your home country).
We learned that skin cancer is actually the #1 killer of young people in Australia, and most locals I met get their skin checked every 3 months or so by their dermatologist. Please don’t take any chances and protect yourself with at least SPF 50. Don’t be a statistic.
Slather on that SPF MULTIPLE times per day (honestly, it doesn’t hurt to keep reapplying), wear a wide-brimmed hat, and attempt to cover your body if you can (especially your face and shoulders). I wore lightweight long-sleeve breezy tops whenever I could in an attempt to protect myself.
I didn’t wear sunscreen my first day in Sydney (not a smart move) and got a nasty burn — not quite as brutal as the one I got in Caye Caulker, Belize, but still not fun. Don’t be like me.
Turn the plugs on: A tiny tip, but most wall outlets (better known as powerpoints in Australia) we encountered (in hotels, at the airport, in cafes) needed to be turned on by a small switch directly above the socket.
I say this so you remember to check that your devices are actually charging (I forgot once or twice and was bummed when my batteries didn’t charge). I’ve never seen this anywhere else in the world, so wanted to point this out.
On that note, you’ll need an adapter for your electronic devices (plug type I – three flat pins in a triangular shape). And yes, it’s different from the three-pronged adapter used in London!
Acknowledgement of the land: Something I instantly noticed during our 5 days in Sydney was the fact that every museum, landmark, park, and even tour we went on made a point to acknowledge the land. This is known as an Acknowledgement of Country, which is acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land and is a significant and respectful practice in Australia.
Strong efforts are being made to recognize and pay tribute to the Indigenous peoples who have been the traditional custodians of the land for thousands of years.
Everyone is so nice. It’s true — Aussies are some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met (on par with Canadians for sure). They all seem so utterly happy and carefree in the best way possible. I love how they value work-life balance SO MUCH, and they really pride themselves on being good friends and neighbors.
And not just to people they know, but to everyone they counter. Everyone I met seemed super genuine and down for a quick chat (plus they gave great recommendations).
Aussie animals: I admit one of the main reasons I wanted to visit Australia was to see all those super cute Aussie animals.
And no, there aren’t kangaroos hopping around the city of Sydney, haha (although there’s plenty Australian White Ibis wandering around — way cooler than any birds hanging around California, thats for sure). If seeing Aussie animals are on your Australia bucket list (um hello, YES PLEASE), you’ll need to actively seek those out either in the wild or at wildlife sanctuaries.
For reference, we saw kangaroos and koalas (and even a Tasmanian devil!) at the Australian Reptile Park. We admittedly saw way more wildlife during our time in Melbourne, but we kinda prioritized it more over there.
Kangaroos are frequently seen at the Australian Botanic Gardens (45 minutes southwest of central Sydney), in certain areas of the Blue Mountains, and in Hunter Valley. You can of course see plenty of Australian animals at the Taronga Zoo (right in Sydney itself), Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, and Symbio Wildlife Park.
But they’re not all cute. Australia has some of the deadliest creatures in the entire world, namely venomous spiders and snakes. Don’t let this deter you from visiting – we didn’t see one snake during our 5 days in Sydney, and only 2-3 small (harmless) spiders.
Encounters with dangerous wildlife in urban areas are rare, but it’s still good practice to do the following:
- Be cautious when walking in grassy or bushy areas.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Avoid reaching into areas where you can’t see.
- If you encounter a snake, remain still and let it move away. Never attempt to handle or provoke it.
Sydney vs. Melbourne: There’s a friendly rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne – and I encourage you to visit both (we did just that and loved being able to compare the two). Sydney’s scenery is quite epic (with the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach Icebergs), although Melbourne’s culture and nightlife definitely win.
I honestly can’t pick a favorite; they’re both equally special in their own way. But I do feel like I could live in Melbourne as long as I could visit Sydney whenever I wanted!
A Note on Jet Lag: If you’re like me, you feel doomed at the thought of (very) long flights and the inevitable jet lag that it brings. BUT – if you’re coming from California like we were, you may get lucky – we had zero jet lag flying to Australia – we honestly couldn’t believe it!
Since Sydney is 19 hours ahead of California, it’s almost a full day ahead. We both found it way easier to adjust to the time difference than traveling to Europe (where I typically wake up at 3am every day for a week!)
Less than 5 days in Sydney? If you’ve got less time, say 3 days in Sydney or so, I’d spend one full day nearby Cirqular Quay (for the Opera House and Harbour Bridge), a day on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk (with some beach time at Bondi afterwards), and the last taking a day trip to either the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley. 4 or 5 days in Sydney is really ideal, but work with what you got!
The Ultimate 5 Day Sydney Itinerary
Finally what you’re probably here for – the perfect 5 days in Sydney itinerary!
Notes on This 5 Day Sydney Itinerary
Like most of my itineraries, this Sydney itinerary is rather fast paced. If you’d rather take it slow and have a more relaxing 5 days in Sydney, either eliminate a day trip or stay an extra day!
This Sydney itinerary assumes you have 5 full days in the city. Meaning you got here the night before and can start your first full day the next morning. You may be able to squeeze everything in on Day 1 if you arrive in the early AM like we did (we landed at 6am), but depending on your travel style and how tired you are, you may feel kinda rushed.
Somehow we got off the 15-hour plane ride and were ready to go – no idea how that happened (oh right, we both slept 11 hours during the flight!).
Also, you can totally switch days around, but I recommend starting with the activities in the CBD and then making your way over to Bondi for some relaxing beach time. I always like to get the more intense sightseeing out of the way in the beginning of my trip – makes the most sense to me!
Note that the Rocks Market, the market in Manly Beach, and the market at Bondi only take place on the weekend, while the Darling Harbour fireworks are only on Saturday nights. Plan accordingly if those are top priorities for ya!
Day 1: Iconic Sydney Attractions
Woo – you made it to Sydney! Of course Day 1 of this Sydney itinerary needs to include all those iconic attractions you’ve been dreaming about for far too long. Think the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Rocks neighborhood, and a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
It’s a pretty jam-packed day, so I definitely recommend starting early. You can always move a few things over to Day 2 if you run outta time or want a more relaxed first day in Sydney. Wear super comfy sneakers – I got over 20k steps!
Stop 1: Coffee and Breakfast at Circular Quay
First up on this 5 day Sydney itinerary – fueling up for the day in Circular Quay. I opted for acai bowls at Oakberry Acai Circular Quay (a brazilian based company so you know it’s legit), but there’s also Cabrito Coffee Traders, Avenue on George, and The Rocks Cafe nearby. I’d opt for a quick breakfast so you don’t get side-tracked and miss out on anyone on Day 1.
Watch the ships and ferries pass by, and just take it all in – you’re in AUSTRALIA!
Stop 2: Photos at Sydney Opera House
Ohhh – the Opera House! No Sydney itinerary (or visit to Australia!) is complete without oohing and ahhing at the Opera House.
The Sydney Opera House is as iconic as it gets – I mean, it’s basically the most recognizable landmark in all of Australia. Its striking silhouette is insanely popular (understandably so, attracting millions of visitors around the world each year), which is why you wanna get here in the early AM if you wanna take some nice pics without 3,000 of your closest friends (aka other tourists, haha).
And thankfully, from Circular Quay, it’s only about a 5-10 minute walk along the picturesque Sydney Harbour.
Aim to get there by 8:30am or so, as tours start around 9am and start getting busy, busy with people shortly after. You can always have breakfast afterwards (or simply eat in your hotel beforehand). If you don’t care as much about photos without people, don’t worry about getting here ASAP.
The structure is so fun – take note of the sails, the white tiled roof, and all the lines. And play around with your angles – we took photos right on the steps, near the Opera Bar, and from further away. It’s considered a masterpiece of modern architecture for a reason – and even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site! No one’s judging you for taking a zillion photos, trust me.
Stop 3: Sydney Opera House Tour
Next up – a tour of this architectural marvel! One-hour tours take place every day from 9-5, but I recommend buying a ticket for the 10am tour so you can hop on over to the Opera Bar directly afterwards (which opens at 11am).
What is the Opera House anyways?! Sure, it’s renowned for its groundbreaking design (with distinctive sail-like shells for its roof), but it’s actually a multi-venue performing arts center! The Opera House has a huge range of performing arts and cultural events, like opera (obviously!), ballet, theater, and even music concerts.
I read plenty of Sydney itineraries that encouraged visitors to skip a tour and see a show instead – and while I definitely recommend a show, I do think taking a tour is a nice add-on to your Sydney experience. I learned tons of interesting facts, and loved getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse into this iconic architectural masterpiece.
Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, it’s not to be missed on any Sydney itinerary. And yes, I do think a tour is worth it – it doesn’t take very long and you get to see the interior without all the hordes of people waiting for a show. Book your tour here (they do sell out, especially in prime summer months).
Or don’t listen to me and see a show instead (this was definitely a missed opportunity on my part – I didn’t plan early enough and all the performances were either sold out or super, super pricey by the time I was ready to look and book!). There’s really something for everyone – including Opera Australia, the Australian Ballet, the Sydney Theatre Company, and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Take a look at the schedule to see what’s on during your visit.
Stop 4: Opera Bar (opens at 11am)
A few feet away from the Sydney Opera House you’ll find the iconic Opera Bar. It’s a great spot for photos (of both the Opera House and Harbour Bridge), although it does get busy, so come early before it gets insanely mobbed.
Honestly, the drinks are way overpriced and nothing special, but hey, it’s the Opera Bar! Get at least one drink to check that off the bucket list, haha (and if you’re not feeling a cocktail at 11am, I get it — I sipped on my passionfruit juice and loved it). And plus, you can’t really beat the views of Sydney Harbor, the Harbour Bridge, and Circular Quay.
Stop 5: Stroll through The Rocks
Once you’ve had enough of the Opera House (don’t worry, there’ll be more views of it soon!), make your way over to The Rocks. It’s a historic and vibrant neighborhood a short walk from Circular Quay, and is actually one of the oldest areas in Sydney (dating back to the early days of European settlement in Australia).
The Rocks is characterized by its charming cobblestone laneways, historic sandstone buildings, and convict-era architecture – all beautifully preserved and restored! There’s heritage-listed sites to see, like Cadman’s Cottage, the oldest residential building in the city, and Susannah Place Museum, a preserved row of 19th-century terrace houses.
Plus plenty of alfresco dining with waterfront views and cafes and pubs (meaning it’s a great place to stop for lunch!). Take a walking tour of The Rocks if you don’t wanna miss anything.
Visiting on the weekend? Stroll through The Rocks Market held every Saturday and Sunday from 10-5. We loved perusing the 200 stalls featuring local artists, designers, and gourmet food! Think handmade jewelry, Aboriginal art, and plenty of Australian souvenirs.
I also popped into The Glenmore Hotel to check out their rooftop bar, although I wasn’t thirsty because I had just downed a huge watermelon juice at the market.
Stop 6: Viewpoints of Opera House and Harbour Bridge
This stop on our Sydney itinerary is kinda optional, but if you’re a sucker for views of the Opera House (like I am!), you won’t wanna miss it. Plus, I kinda think views from further away are actually better than up close. AND both viewpoints are right in The Rocks, so… you don’t even need to go outta your way!
Hickson Road Reserve: A waterfront park situated with lots of grassy space with great views of both the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It’s also an amazing (free!) New Years Eve fireworks spot if you’re here for the festivities.
Dawes Point Reserve: Located less than a 5 minute walk from Hickson Road Reserve, with similar views and lots of history. You’ll walk past here to get under the bridge, which is actually really cool to see with tons of people relaxing and hiding from the sun.
Stop 7: Walk over Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Harbour Bridge is easily the second most iconic landmark in Sydney. It connects The Rocks (in the CBD) with Luna Park (along the North Shore), and takes about 30 minutes to walk across (~1.5km). The bridge took almost 9 years to complete, and uses about 53,000 tonnes of steel – kinda wild when you think about it!
Don’t feel like you need to walk across the entire bridge if it’s sweltering hot out (I walked less than halfway and still had fantastic, fantastic views). Just note you’ll of course need to cross the bridge to get to Luna Park if that’s on your Sydney itinerary (I decided to skip it since I had planned to visit the location in Melbourne later on in my Australia trip).
Pylon Lookout: When you’re on the Harbour Bridge, you have the option of walking up the Pylon Lookout for even better views. It’s a great alternative to BridgeClimb Sydney, and a whole lot cheaper (at roughly $25AUD). You don’t need to make a reservation in advance, and entrance is right on the Harbour Bridge.
Expect some stairs – you’ll climb 68 steps to get to the ticket office, and after purchasing your ticket, it’s another 132 steps to the top (for a total of 200 steps, although way easier than the BridgeClimb). Note that there’s no elevator to the top.
BridgeClimb Sydney: This one’s for the thrill seekers! Yes, you can climb to the summit of the bridge’s arch for crazy panoramic views of Sydney (don’t worry you’re all suited up and strapped into safety harnesses)!
A few things to note: it’s really expensive (around $250AUD), and photos are not allowed. Plus, the experience takes a few hours – if you’ve got limited time on your Sydney itinerary, decide if this is worth it to you. Hence why I decided to skip it. But if the bridge climb is on your Sydney bucket list, I say go for it – you sure traveled a long way to get here!
How to access the pedestrian walkway on the bridge: I was super confused at first how to even get up to the bridge. There’s an elevator, phew! If you’re not doing the BridgeClimb, look for the glass lift past the entrance to the official BridgeClimb and almost directly across the street from The Glenmore Hotel (about 10 minutes from Dawes Point Reserve).
Or just find them easily by searching “Elevator Southern Side” on Google Maps. There’s also a set of stairs (in Google Maps as “Bridge Stairs”) you can climb to get up to the bridge, but there’s a lot of ‘em and they’re quite steep. May as well just take the lift – no reason not to!
Stop 8: Stroll through the CBD
Next up – wandering through the heart of the CBD. Walk down George Street, the main street over here, as far as you’d like. I personally didn’t find this area all that inspiring (it looks like any other big city), but you’re here, might as well take a short stroll.
There’s tons of shopping over here, including the Queen Victoria Building (that interior is gorgeous, head up to the highest level for the best views), Pitt Street Mall and The Strand Arcade. A great mix of luxury boutiques, department stores, and designer labels. Don’t spend too long shopping though – we’ve still got more to see!
Stop 9: Royal Botanic Gardens
After a stroll in the CBD, make your way back north to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Here you’ll find an extensive collection of plants from Australia and around the world, gorgeous views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbor, and plenty of scenic walking paths. The best way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city!
Don’t miss The Calyx, a futuristic glasshouse exhibition with a huge live wall full of succulents – easily my favorite spot in the Royal Botanic Garden. Everyone says it’s free, but it’s kinda mandatory to donate at least a few bucks; when I was there, a staff member at the entrance made sure, haha. Well worth it though!
Stop 10: Sunset at Mrs. Macquaries Chair
It’s sunset time – my favorite time of day! Make your way over to Mrs. Macquaries Chair, one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Sydney! You’ll find it on the eastern edge of the Royal Botanic Garden, so the perfect next stop.
We just *loved* the stunning panoramic views of Sydney Harbour – how can you not with uninterrupted vistas of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline?! So, so dreamy.
This spot is beyond popular – you’ll see why right away, haha! Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks and watch the sun go down.
And while there’s technically a sandstone chair here (we had a hard time finding it at first lol), Mrs. Macquaries Chair refers to the general area overlooking the harbor and Opera House.
Stop 11: Late Night Cocktails
Still have some energy left? Grab an after-dinner drink; there’s tons of popular places in Sydney for that! Check out Maybe Sammy, The Glenmore, Apollonia, Hyde Hacienda & Lounge, and/or Grain.
We opted for classy cocktails at Maybe Sammy, on the World’s 50 Best Bars list in both 2022 and 2023. And when they say innovative and fun, they really mean it! The bartenders were having the time of their lives with bubble machines and even the menu is so eclectic – so much flair and great vibes. Definitely sit at the bar!
Note that bars in Sydney close pretty early due to regulations imposed by the New South Wales government. It kinda sucks, which is why everyone says nightlife in Melbourne is way better! But I bet after this long, crazy day you’ll be a-okay with that, haha. We sure were!
Day 2: Manly, Chinatown, and Darling Harbor
After exploring the main highlights of Sydney on your first day, we’re heading to the beach! You’ll start the morning by taking a ferry to Manly, exploring the cute surf town for a bit, then heading back and wandering around Chinatown. Finish off the day watching fireworks at Darling Harbor!
Stop 1: Morning in Manly
I think if I were to be lucky enough to live in Sydney, I’d choose to live in Manly. With golden sandy beaches, an emphasis on an active lifestyle, and brunch spots galore, I have a feeling I’d thrive over here.
It makes sense that Manly is a favorite amongst Sydney locals – it’s far less touristy than nearby Bondi Beach, and there’s lots of Aussie culture. We met a few locals and they much prefer Manly to Bondi (although don’t miss out on Bondi – it’s popular for a reason).
Expect laid-back surfer beach vibes and tons of relaxed coastal charm. Yet it’s super vibrant (we saw plenty of colorful murals in town) and there’s always something going on. And get this – the world’s first surfing contest EVER was held at Manly Beach in 1964, making it one of Australia’s most famous beaches! Kinda wild, right?!
I was surprised by how much I loved Manly, and I think I’ll dedicate a whole day to the beach community next time I visit Sydney!
How to get to Manly: By ferry of course! The ride is super scenic and only takes about 40 minutes from Circular Quay (head to Wharf No. 3). Or you can take the Manly fast ferry which whips you there in 18-20 minutes (yet is understandably more expensive – not worth it in my opinion).
We loved taking the regular ferry – the views are second to none, especially since you get to see the Opera House from the water.
A few things not-to-miss in Manly:
- Stroll along The Corso: A bustling promenade lined with boutiques, cafes, and plenty of surf shops. It connects the wharf and the beach!
- Manly Markets: On the weekend, there’s tons of arts and crafts stalls taking over Sydney Road just off the Corso. So unexpected yet so great!
- Check out the beaches and watch the surfers: Obviously, you’re here for the beach! There’s three main beaches in Manly, plus the wharf –
Manly Beach: Also known as the main beach at almost 3km long (and is typically way less crowded than busy Bondi). It’s a popular place to learn how to surf, or, if you’re like me and way too nervous (hey, the waves are rough!), a great spot to watch the pros. Sunbathe, join the locals at beach volleyball, or simply go for a stroll.
Shelly Beach: More enclosed and way calmer than Manly Beach, making it a great spot for swimming. You can even take a snorkeling tour here!
Fairy Bower Beach: popular with families!
- Manly Wharf: A great spot for paddleboarding and kayaking with some great restaurants right on the water. Hang at the Wharf Bar for drinks, and/or the Manly Pavilion for some spectacular views and high-end food.
- Acai bowls and cafe culture: You’re in Australia – opt for an acai bowl and avo toast! We loved our bowls from Palmó Artisan Açai, and heard great things about Rollers Bakehouse (with super cute interiors), the cookies at Butterboy, and waffles at Barefoot Coffee Traders. There’s tons of cute coffee shops on every corner, and of course an Anita Gelato too.
- Spit to Manly Walk: A gorgeous coastal walk if you’re up for a long trek (10km one way) and have the time. We didn’t even entertain this as it was way too hot out and the beach was definitely calling our name.
Read Next: The Best Things to Do in Manly Beach
Stop 2: Chinatown
We spent the majority of the day in Manly, but still had time for some exploring close to our hotel (we were staying nearby in Darling Harbor). I wouldn’t say Chinatown is a must during your 5 days in Sydney, but if you’ve got time, why not check it out?! Especially for the Friday Night Market happening well, every Friday night!
There’s also the Chinese Garden of Friendship, a tranquil oasis of ponds, pavilions, and lush greenery inspired by classical Chinese gardens. We were visiting right around Lunar New Year, so got to see the area all decked out with lanterns and traditional decorations.
In terms of food, there’s everything here, from hole-in-the-wall dumpling houses to upscale seafood restaurants. Think mouthwatering dim sum, noodles, BBQ pork, etc. We ended up getting dumplings multiple nights – they totally hit the spot after long days exploring (plus we were staying closeby!).
While it definitely doesn’t rival the Chinatown in San Francisco, it’s fun for a night out. Especially since there’s no shortage of karaoke bars and cocktail lounges!
Psst – you can also check out the young and trendy Surrey Hills neighborhood a tad south, but we unfortunately didn’t have enough for that!
Stop 3: Darling Harbour
We stayed in Darling Harbour, a waterfront area not far from Sydney’s CBD. I didn’t think the main attractions were anything special (there’s an aquarium, zoo, Madame Tussauds, and some shopping – we weren’t interested in any of that), but enjoyed walking around the harbor for a bit.
And whatever you do, don’t miss the Darling Harbour fireworks every Saturday night at 9pm. I watched from around the harbor itself, but I heard the views are even better from the nearby Pyrmont Bridge. They’re not quite as epic as the New Year’s Eve fireworks show overlooking the Opera House, but hey, it’s way less chaotic and time-consuming.
Day 3: Day Trip from Sydney
Time for a day trip from Sydney! And thankfully, there’s tons of options. No really, there’s something for everyone. Wanna meet some Aussie animals? Head over to the Australian Reptile Park or Taronga Zoo. Interested in sipping some wine? There’s Hunter Valley for that. Nature calling your name? Take the train to the Blue Mountains.
The options are endless – there’s actually way more, but these are the 3 most popular to include on a first-timers Sydney itinerary.
Australian Animal Experience
You’re in AUSTRALIA. Of course you need to see some Aussie animals. What kinda Sydney itinerary do you think this is?!
On our day out, we fed kangaroos, searched for alligators in the river, and even saw some of those famous Huntsman spiders Australia is so famous for (behind glass of course!). The main highlight? Falling in love with Pete, the few-month old baby koala we couldn’t stop gushing about, poopy butt and all!
Plus had a classic Aussie BBQ with shrimp on the barbie and even learned how to throw a boomerang (I failed completely…)! All very important Australian things! We spent the day on an AirBnB Experience at the Australian Reptile Park with a local, and it was one of the highlights during our time in Australia — despite the rain and tons of traffic.
The Australian Reptile Park is about an hour north of Sydney, and is home to an impressive collection of native Australian wildlife. Of course there’s your typical ‘roos and koalas (a whole sanctuary actually), but also wombats, dingoes, echidnas, tree kangaroos, wallabies, and Tassie devils. But the koalas really made the day.
And the park is SO dedicated to wildlife conservation and environmental education. They really focus on raising awareness about preserving Australia’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity. I appreciate this tons and am always so careful whenever participating in any wildlife interactions/paying for animal experiences.
If you’d rather combine seeing Aussie animals with another experience (or two), this tour has waterfalls, wine, and wildlife all-in-one (looks absolutely incredible and kinda wish I saw it before I went, haha), and this tour that combines 2 national parks, waterfalls, and wild wombats and kangaroos.
Hunter Valley
Wine, anyone?! Plan a day to Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s oldest and most famous wine regions about two hours north of Sydney. Think picturesque vineyards, award-winning wines, gourmet food and dining (like farm-fresh cheeses, olives, and chocolates), and stunning landscapes with rolling hills and fertile valleys.
There’s plenty of day tours that make pick-ups in Sydney and take you all around! Check out this wine, gin, cheese, and chocolate tour (the one I’d pick!), wine and spirit tasting tour with lunch, small-group wine tasting with cheese (gourmet lunch included!), and 3 tastings with garden lunch on this one!
Just remember, if you’re planning to rent a car and drive yourself, make sure you have a designated driver. Stay safe, my friends!
Since I live right near Napa Valley and Sonoma (and am admittedly not the hugest fan of wine…), I decided to skip Hunter Valley. If I had an extra day I *think* I would have gone for the views alone.
Blue Mountains
Ohhh – the breathtaking natural beauty of the Blue Mountains. Think rugged sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Don’t miss the iconic viewpoints – the Three Sisters rock formation, Govetts Leap, Echo Point, Sublime Point, plus a hike to Wentworth Falls and lunch in Katoomba!
But why’s this region called the Blue Mountains?! No – the mountains are not blue! It’s because of the blue haze that often blankets the landscape, created by the eucalyptus trees releasing tiny droplets of oil into the air (science is cool my friends, or should I say mates?).
You can either take the train from Sydney Central (about 2 hours direct to Katoomba), or pre-book a guided day tour (there’s so many it’s hard to choose!). If you’re not familiar with the area it’s best to take a tour so you can easily get around.
Check out this full day tour to Featherdale Wildlife Park and Scenic World, this all-inclusive Blue Mountains plus boat cruise, Blue Mountains tour with waterfall walk, and afternoon and sunset tour. Just click all those links and see which you like best – no wrong answers.
We decided to switch hotels tonight and made our way over to QT Bondi. You don’t necessarily NEED to do so, but we loved waking up by the beach the last few mornings of our trip!
Day 4: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Up next on this 5 day Sydney itinerary – the stunning Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, one of Sydney’s most iconic walks! You’ll start the morning in Bondi, one of Sydney’s most iconic beach suburbs, and then make your way over to Coogee, another of Sydney’s famous beaches.
The Bondi to Coogee Walk was easily one of my favorite days on our Sydney itinerary, and even though I was dripping with sweat (…the entire time), I’d do it all over again. THE VIEWS, OMG. They kept getting better and better.
Think rugged coastal cliffs. Stunning white sandy beaches. Saltwater pools. Hidden bays. And thankfully some beachside cafes when you inevitably feel famished and need some nourishment (possibly in the form of ice cream, haha).
The Basics:
- Distance: 6.4km (4 miles)
- Start: Bondi Beach
- End: Coogee Beach
- Difficulty Level: Easy; anyone can do it!
The entire 6km trail hugs the coastline, and it’s a fairly flat and straight forward walk with minimal elevation gain. There’s some steep paths and several staircases – all totally doable, just tiring in the sun.
You’ll start at Bondi Beach, making your way to the famous Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club, then past plenty of gorgeous views and beaches like Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach (don’t miss the stunning Bronte Baths, a natural saltwater swimming pool), Waverley Cemetery, tiny Clovelly Beach, Gordons Bay and the Aquatic Reserve, and finally over to Coogee Beach.
It’s nearly impossible to get lost, but if you do, just ask anyone and they’ll be more than happy to guide you in the right direction.
Don’t miss fresh fruit smoothies at Melonhead once you make it to Coogee – you earned it! You know I drank that right up in two seconds, haha.
Psst – You can actually do the walk in either direction, but we decided to start in Bondi and make our way towards Coogee. We then took a short Uber back to Bondi – we were too exhausted to even think about public transit!
When I was researching, I heard it takes roughly 2 hours to walk without stopping. Well, lemme tell ya. When it’s scorching hot out (that Australian summer sun is no joke) it’s gonna take more like 3-4. Plus factor in time for photos, resting your feet every once in a while, and grabbing some smoothies on-the-go, so I’d dedicate an entire half day at least. Probably more if you wanna enjoy the beaches along the way.
100% wear super comfy sneakers, and light clothing. Bonus if you cover your shoulders, bring along lots of water, and slather on your sunscreen (and remember to reapply!). There’s zero shade on the walk, and with crazy high UV indexes, you don’t wanna take any chances of getting a nasty burn. Psst – sunburns are never sexy. Start early in the day so you’re not walking at the hottest part of the afternoon.
I’ve got an entire guide to the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, so be sure to check that out!
Day 5: Chill in Bondi
It’s the last day of our 5 days in Sydney, and it’s *finally* time to take it easy! I told you this was an aggressive itinerary, haha. Although I beg you to finally have a chill day, there’s still lots to do in Bondi! But if you simply wanted to just lay on the beach all day, I wouldn’t be mad.
Bondi is quite simply a beach-lovers paradise. There’s turquoise water, white sand, perfect waves, and those super iconic Bondi Icebergs. If you love surfing (and/or sunbathing!), fitness, and healthy eats (gimme all the acai bowls, please and thank you), you’re gonna fit right in.
Swim and sunbathe at the beach: Okay, this one’s kinda obvious, haha. But don’t forget to include some beach time into your Sydney itinerary! And always look out for dolphins – they enjoy the waves too! Remember to reapply your sunscreen lots (I know I sound like a broken record), but the UV index gets crazy high over here!
Watch sunrise from Bondi Beach: Wake up early – there’s nothing like a Bondi sunrise. And no, you won’t be alone, haha. We were surprised just how busy the beach was at 6:30 in the morning – expect to be surrounded by surfers catching a few waves before work, and friends/families sipping coffee on the sand. The way that early morning light hits the water is something else.
Get your shopping on! There’s no shortage of trendy Bondi boutiques and surf shops on Gould Street. Some favorites I came across were Nude Lucy, Lucy Folk, La Luna Lifestyle, Fox & Dove, LMND, Tuchuzy, Andrea & Joen, and Nimble Activewear.
And remember, if you’re visiting from the states, everything’s basically 30% off… just saying (wink wink). It’s the perfect spot to pick up a few new bikinis (Australian brands really know their thing).
Take a dip at Bondi Icebergs: THIS is the iconic swimming club located at the southern end of the beach. And yes, it’s that famous ocean pool you see in all the photographs. Admission is only a few bucks (yes, you need to pay), but it’s the perfect place to spend a few hours (a tick off the bucket list for sure). Note that the pool is closed for cleaning on Thursdays.
Take a surf lesson: Catch your first wave on a surf lesson with Let’s Go Surfing at Bondi Beach! Or if you’re a chicken like me, watching the surfers is just as fun.
Indulge in some Bondi specialities: No day in Bondi is complete without some acai from Bare Naked Bowls and ice cream from Anita’s Gelato (worth the wait, I promise). There’s tons to choose from, but I heard great things about Speedo’s Cafe, Gelato Messina, The Depot, Tottis, Bondi Trattoria (I scarfed down a whole pizza from here!), and Harry’s Bondi.
Take in the sunset from the Children’s Pool: Or anywhere really, haha, just don’t miss a Bondi sunset. On the left side of Bondi Beach you’ll find what’s known as the Children’s Pool — and it’s an excellent place to watch the sunset! I loved hanging on the grass watching the sun go down, chatting up some locals, and playing with their cute pup.
Phew – So there ya have it, a (crazy) comprehensive guide to 5 days in Sydney! Are you planning a Sydney itinerary anytime soon?!
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