The Perfect Sydney City Bucket List

See our ultimate holiday bucket list for the spectacular city of Sydney!

For the ultimate Australian experience, visiting the city of Sydney is a must do for first-time visitors. The bustling metropolis is the country’s largest city and home to many famed iconic landmarks. With gorgeous jet blue beaches, a shimmering harbour and charming districts, Sydney is a bucket list destination for tourists worldwide. The heart of the city is its multi-cultural residents who have brought with them a culture of brilliant food and eclectic fashion that perfectly complements the sleekness of the city. So, in a cosmopolitan as varied as Sydney, what are the top highlights?

• Sydney Opera House

  When you think of Australia, the façade of the Sydney Opera House is sure to come up in conversation. The iconic landmark is visited by 8 million tourists annually, and it’s the unique design that has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the time of its opening in 1973, its primary use was that of an opera house, however, it is now a multi-functional performing arts centre. A diverse building, the Opera House now plays house to ballet, the symphony orchestra, and the theatre. It is certainly a top Australian bucket list item as it has events for the whole family, even hosting animation shows for the kids. For the best views of the Sydney Opera House, a harbour cruise will allow you to see the impressive design from an unfiltered view away from the crowds.

• Sydney Harbour Bridge

  Another popular Australian landmark is the giant megastructure that is the Sydney Harbour. The tallest steel arch bridge in the world is featured on most Australian souvenirs and for good reason. You have a few different options in terms of getting the best vantage point of the bridge, starting with a ferry ride through the harbour that takes you right under the bridge. If you’re an adrenaline junkie by heart, you can even take a climb over the top of the bridge! However, if you’re looking for something a little tamer than that, a walk on the bridge itself is an experience not to be missed.

• Bondi Beach

  Ask anyone around and they’ll tell you that Bondi Beach is Australia’s most iconic beach. For an Instagram worthy picture, head to the Bondi Icebergs pool and marvel at the sparkling turquoise waters that crash into the waves of the ocean. When you’ve had your fill of sunbaking, there’s a lot more for you to explore around the area, with waterfront dining, boutique shopping and cocktail bars to visit. If you’re lucky to visit in the springtime, the internationally renowned Sculpture by the Sea event sees artwork dotted along the coastline.

• The Rocks

  One of the most exciting precincts in Sydney, The Rocks is a historical quarter that holds the title of being the oldest neighbourhood in Sydney. With its quaint 19th century sandstone buildings, quirky cafes and impressive art galleries, this district holds all the charm of a time long past mixed in with a lively and contemporary nightlife and fine dining scene. It’s a great location to base yourself as it’s just a stone’s throw away from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and a short walk to Darling Harbour.

Related article: What is Sydney famous for?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.