Top Things to do in Sydney
What to do and see in Sydney, New South Wales: The Best Nature & Parks
Sydney offers plenty of historical and contemporary Australian flavor. The marvelous Sydney Opera House looks like a great origami sailboat, floating peacefully in a harbor. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets of The Rocks and then take in a street performance on the Circular Quay before heading into the Museum of Contemporary Art. The views from the Sydney Tower Eye observatory are epic – use this chance to get to know the layout of the city from high above.
Restaurants in Sydney
1. Sydney Harbour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21,842 reviews
Secluded beaches, quiet coves and soaring headlands predominate this harbor, which is considered one of the world's most beautiful.
Reviewed By 410bernadetteh - Sydney, Australia
Amazing ! Best way to explore is by ferry ⛴ stopping at islands such as Cockatoo to explore, shopping areas such as Balmain, Watson Bay, the iconic Luna Park, Lavender Bay, Circular Quay - The Rocks area, markets, pubs, the Opera House, too many to mention.
2. Birchgrove Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Reviewed By lynnejames21 - St. Albans, United Kingdom
We stayed in an airbnb only minutes away from this attractive and tranquil park so close to the water. The park is used by early morning dog walkers, and it's always a delight to see parents and their children playing together as a family .There are plenty of benches if you want to sit and read your holiday novel, and the public conveniences are a plus for us senior citizens. Simply safe and encourages well-being.
3. Manly Scenic Walkway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,714 reviews
A 10km scenic walkway taking in the breathtaking sites from the Spit Bridge to Manly Wharf. Pass through bushlands, beaches,and majestic viewpoints this is a walk not to be missed.
Reviewed By GBertoldi - Sydney, Australia
Taking the bus to the Spit bridge was easy from Wynyard station. The are has toilets and BBQ’s and a resting area to start. When you start the walk you start already with some beautiful scenery and forest area. Plenty of opportunities for photos along the way and the journey climbs and climbs until you get through to the national park and it’s highest peak with breathtaking views form to points round to the top of the city. Plenty of places to stop and rest or even have a quick dip. Don’t underestimate the 3-4hour walk and pack some water and snacks for the journey in case. But there are cafes along the way as well. Finishing in Manly and then taking the ferry back home to the city was a good experience and well rounded trip. Would do it again but a little earlier and with the help of daylight savings to be able to finish with a swim in Manly. I added a map for the one area where you can get a little lost and the signage isn’t the best. Just try and follow the line of the water and beach. You do have to walk on the “beach” or sand and along the water with no path. Then you’re back on track at the end of the beach.
4. Bondi Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,715 reviews
Bondi Beach is famous for its glistening ocean, pristine sands, reliable surf and seaside spirit. It's laid back coastal lifestyle, cafe culture, boutique shops and thriving, eclectic community is equally enticing.
Reviewed By Boating0804 - San Juan, Caribbean
Having beautiful beaches at my country home and visiting the most beautiful beaches in the world I can say that bondi is almost perfect. The sand is soft and white as you can get, the sea is a beautiful blue BUT the water is freezing cold. That is the reason I don’t give it a 10 but an 7. Despite that, the vibe, sand sea and restaurants around makes it great. Be aware, if you go with kids, that there are ton of topless all around.
5. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,739 reviews
The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a major botanical Garden located in the heart of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Opened in 1816, the garden is the oldest scientific institution in Australia and one of the most important historic botanical institutions in the world.
Reviewed By joycesX316UR - Sherwood Forest, United States
When you are tired of city walking, just cross a street and find peace and beauty. Colorful, green, wide open lawns, a gorgeous bay with boats, rose garden, herb, flower gardens, cute painted koala bears throughout the garden, unimaginable beauty there, benches to rest and reflect on your travels. We were there just before Halloween thus the vampire Koala ????
6. Coogee Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 941 reviews
Reviewed By sueliliwen - Builth Wells, United Kingdom
Lovely chilled atmosphere, plenty of good cafes to choose from,all open early for breakfast, good selection of tasteful shops, and a lovely beach with coastal walk
7. Manly Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,662 reviews
SHOP .....in the sunshine with over 200 stores to explore. Discover funky boutiques in hidden lane ways, wander through the weekend outdoor markets or splurge on a whole new wardrobe on The Corso. At every turn, it's sheer shopping pleasure to satisfy everyone. TASTE .....an amazing array of flavours in over 100 cafes, restaurants, bars and eateries. Whether it's a lingering lunch of classy dining, a sumptuous seafood selection for dinner, fast and fresh takeaway or a walk along the beach front with an ice cream in hand. Any time of day or night, you'll find a taste to tempt. LIVE .....life and discover your hidden talents. Get active with surfing, sailing, scuba diving... and everything in between! Take a dip at the beach, or try your hand at beach volleyball. And when relaxation is on the agenda, treat yourself to a hotel stay or enjoy some pampering at one of our many salons. The perfect place for adventure or to relax and explore. FEEL ..... the sand between your toes after a long day at work. Absorb the geography and the nature that makes Manly special. Nestled between the harbour and the ocean, over 40 beaches and walkways give an escape to the daily grind. Just cast out a fishing line, pack a picnic basket, or bask in the sun. Relax in your favourite spot and soak up the serenity.
Reviewed By Trixtrac - Sydney, Australia
Catch a ferry - any one be it the fast or slow ferry and get over to Manly!! Great beaches...fabulous cafes (best ones are in the laneways and off the main beach and Corso - Whistler St is great)!! Lots to see...shopping (Bow & Arrow is the best)...bike riding...walks along the beach front to Shelley Beach and North Head. Too much to do in one day - stay for at least a few nights. Great restaurants include Chica Bonita, Loco Madre, Sunset Sabi, Showbox, Hugos.
8. Nielsen Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 182 reviews
Reviewed By JElliot32 - New South Wales, Australia
Nielsen Park has been a treasured icon for generations of Sydney families. It is a beautiful harbour beach, surrounded by bushland and with great views across the (on sunny days) sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour to the CBD and Harbour Bridge. Entry to the park is free. The water and the sand are clean and the beach is protected by a shark net. Being a harbour beach, there is no surf. It is great spot for kids, and for family picnics and events, with spacious lawns and shady spots. Now, the downside. It can get really crowded over summer, and parking in this area is very limited. Be prepared to park the car some distance from the park and walk the rest of the way. If you can handle that inconvenience, you'll have a great day.
9. Chinese Garden of Friendship
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,042 reviews
Escape from the hustle and bustle to a serene, secluded garden—Darling Harbour’s Chinese Garden of Friendship. The walled Chinese Garden respectfully recreates the philosophy and harmony of a traditional Chinese garden in its waterfalls, lakes, exotic plants, pavilions and hidden pathways...once you’ve discovered this secret garden, you’ll never want to leave! Opening hours 10am – 5pm - Last entry to the Garden 15 minutes prior to closing. The Garden is closed Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Reviewed By Lvalo
Wow, my first visit but won't be my last It is only the muffled sounds of the surrounding city that break you away from the peace and scerenity , it is hard to imagine that such a pristine environment can exist in the heart of Sydney The gardens are immaculately maintained with water features a prominent centre "the Coy Carp are huge" and lazing about the surrounding rocks you will see countless water monitor lizards This is a must see and well done - my hat goes off to whoever is maintaining the gardens
10. Centennial Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 596 reviews
Reviewed By 971robertaf - Woollahra, Australia
Centennial park has something for everyone - tons of activities for children, horse riding, cycling, running, dog walking, sport, moonlight cinema, concerts or picnicking. I'm there most days walking my dog. The whole outer perimeter is leash free and she loves the freedom of being to run around and catch sticks. It's a beautiful place for a wedding and I see them often in the avenue of paperbark trees. The café and restaurant are great and dogs can also sit with you in the outdoor café area. I feel privileged to have the park on my doorstep and I love that it is so well used and so well maintained.
