Sydney ranks high on most tourists’ list of “MUST DO’s” in Australia. Why not? It has some of the most iconic sites in the world, namely the Opera House and the Harbor Bridge. But there is so much more to Sydney and to truly see its charm and beauty, you need to get off the tourist trail and visit some of the more local suburbs.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Sydney:
1) Explore the circular dock
The Harbor Bridge and the Opera House are impressive and must be seen. For $30 you can take a tour of the Opera House, but it’s not as impressive as seeing a performance in the Concert Hall. The best way to see both the bridge and the opera house is from over the water. The view from Manly or Balmain by ferry is spectacular.
2) Admire the architecture in the rocks
The Rocks has some interesting buildings as this is the oldest part of town and you can still see the colonial architecture. The weekend market here is also particularly good for Australian arts, crafts and souvenirs.
3) Take a tour of the domain
The domain is a beautiful garden behind the opera house and has the city skyline in the background. However, look up to see the “flying foxes”. These are fruit bats and they have faces like little foxes. They tend to make a lot of noise and sit in fruit trees. The cafe at the botanical gardens is also good for lunch.
4) Explore the city
On weekends, the city turns into a ghost town, so try to see the city in all its glory during the week when the office workers give the place a real stir. Take a trip to Orbit Bar on Australia Square (George Street) and enjoy the revolving bar. You have the opportunity to see the entire city in 1 hour and 15 minutes. Come at sunset to enjoy the best view.
5) Shop till you drop
While Melbourne is known for its shopping, Sydney has some wonderful stores. The QVB building in the city offers something for everyone: boutiques and well-known chains. Try Paddington for more boutique shopping, especially the market that runs until 4pm. m. every Saturday.
6) Take a ferry ride
The harbor is such an important part of Sydney’s culture that you must see the city from the water. A trip to Manly is recommended or why not head to Watsons Bay and enjoy Doyle’s Fish and Chips on the beach before heading back to Circular Quay.
7) Italian Restaurant Sydney
At italian restaurant sydney, you can expect the freshest quality food and service with the greatest attention to detail. Our commitment to excellence spans all aspects of our business, from concept to execution. We value our reputation as a top-notch Italian restaurant in Sydney and have been considered Sydney’s number one authentic Italian restaurant for over 6 years! Italian food is the best and most delicious in the world, with fresh pasta, juicy meat and some of the tastiest bread you will ever eat; they are the ultimate hot-spot for all the people who love to get a date night or a romantic evening out with friends!
8) See the beaches
Although Bondi Beach is well known, it is usually very touristy. You have to go see it of course, but take the coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte to really experience this area (40 minute walk). The cafe row in Bronte will be a rewarding stop before heading back to Bondi.
9) Eat at some of the best restaurants
Sydney has some of the most amazing food on offer. Do as the locals do and choose a restaurant where you can bring your own wine (BYO). If you are looking for cheap and fancy food try Napalese cuisine, Crown Street, Surry Hills of Phamish, Burton street, Darlinghurst. For something special (no BYO allowed), try Long Grain, Commonwealth street, Surry Hills, or Ottos in Wooloomooloo (actor Russell Crowe has an apartment here).
10) Join the brunch culture
One of the most popular pastimes among Sydneysiders is brunch with friends. There are loads of great breakfast places to choose from. Try 3 Eggs at Bondi or Nest at Potts Point. For something different, Banquet (6 people or more) at the Kazbah, Darling Street Balmain is out of this world. Or how about Bill Granger’s (famous Australian chef) infamous scrambled eggs at one of his 3 restaurants – Bills in Woollahra is probably the best.
Reference
- Italian Transcultural Atmospheres. A Comparison of the Italian Forum in Sydney and Piazza Vittorio in Rome
- Feeding the Public Stomach: Dining out in 1970s Sydney with Italian Restaurant Critic Leo Schofield
