Sydney is one of those cities that grabs you fast and doesn’t let go. With its sunny weather, famous landmarks, beach lifestyle, and easygoing vibe, it’s no surprise travelers keep coming back. Even if it’s your first visit or a return trip, there are always new must do things in Sydney waiting to be explored!
This guide is all about helping you focus on what truly matters, the experiences that define the city! Discover iconic landmarks and nearby nature escapes that make up Sydney’s must see spots
Keep reading to discover the must do in Sydney moments that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one!
Take a guided tour inside the Sydney Opera House
Visitors enjoy Sydney Harbour views near the Opera House and Harbour Bridge
⏱ How much time to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours
🧥 What to wear or bring: Comfortable shoes, a light jacket, and your camera
No list of must do things in Sydney is complete without visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House. Seeing it from the outside is impressive, but walking inside is where the magic really happens. A Sydney Opera House guided tour takes you behind the scenes and explains how this architectural icon came to life.
This is one of those Sydney must visit experiences that feels special even if you’ve seen photos a hundred times. You can also pair your tour with a meal overlooking the harbor to make it extra memorable!
Klook tip: Booking ahead helps you skip lines and secure your preferred time!).
Cruise around Sydney Harbour for unbeatable views
Couple taking photos with Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge on a sunny day
⏱ How much time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
🧥 What to wear or bring: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
If you want to see the city at its best, get out on the water. A Sydney Harbour cruise is one of the most relaxing must do Sydney, Australia, experiences you can book while you’re in Sydney. You’ll go past the Opera House, under the Harbour Bridge, and along sparkling waterfront neighborhoods. The views are incredible from every angle, especially on a sunny day!
This is perfect if you want sightseeing without the stress of walking everywhere. Cruises are great for couples, families, and even solo travelers who want an easy win. It’s also a smart way to get your guide early in your trip.
See the city from above at Sydney Tower Eye
Sunset views over Sydney Harbour from the Sydney Tower Eye observation deck
⏱ How much time to spend: 1 hour
🧥 What to wear or bring: Casual clothes and a phone or camera for photos
For the best city-wide views, head up to Sydney Tower Eye. From the observation deck, you can spot famous beaches, landmarks, and neighborhoods stretching all the way to the Blue Mountains on clear days. It’s one of the top Sydney must see attractions for first-time tourists.
This experience will help you understand just how big and beautiful Sydney really is. You’ll find interactive displays that will make your visit fun and easy to learn what you’re looking at. If you’re short on time, this is a quick way to see a lot at once.
Escape to the Blue Mountains for nature and adventure
Family enjoying panoramic views at a Blue Mountains lookout near Sydney
⏱ How much time to spend: Full day (8 to 10 hours)
🧥 What to wear or bring: Comfortable walking shoes, layers, and water
When you’re ready for a break from the city, the Blue Mountains deliver big time. This area is famous for dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, eucalyptus forests, and scenic lookouts. If you love nature, it’s one of the most popular day trips and easily one of the top must do things in Sydney!
If you plan on visiting, a Blue Mountain guided tour will make it simple and stress-free for you, especially if it includes Scenic World rides and wildlife encounters. You’ll see the iconic Three Sisters and enjoy cooler air just outside the city. It’s a refreshing contrast to Sydney’s urban energy.
Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Climbers crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge with city and harbour views
⏱ How much time to spend: 30–60 minutes
🧥 What to wear or bring: Comfortable shoes and a light jacket if it’s windy
For a simple but unforgettable experience, take a walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This is one of the most fun must do activities in Sydney, and the views are incredible. From the pedestrian path, you’ll see the harbor, Opera House, and city skyline all at once!
Walking the bridge gives you a real sense of Sydney’s scale and energy. (Pro tip: Go in the morning for fewer crowds or at sunset for golden-hour photos). If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also book a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb, but the walk alone is still a win!
FAQs about must-do things in Sydney
What attractions should you not miss in Sydney?
You should not miss the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, and the Blue Mountains. These places show off the city’s culture, scenery, and outdoor lifestyle. Together, they cover the heart of what makes Sydney special.
What are the top tourist spots in Sydney?
Top tourist spots include Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Tower Eye, Bondi Beach, and Darling Harbour. These are classic Sydney must visit places that work for almost every type of traveler. They’re easy to reach and packed with memorable views.
What must-see places can you visit in Sydney in one day?
In one day, you can visit the Opera House, take a harbour cruise, and walk across the Harbour Bridge. This combo covers the main Sydney must see highlights without feeling rushed. Start early, plan your route, and get a Sydney City Pass to save time and bundle top attractions.
What must-do activities in Sydney are worth booking in advance?
Guided Opera House tours, harbour cruises, and Blue Mountains day trips are best booked ahead. These experiences usually sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. Booking early also helps you lock in better time slots.
What landmarks are a must-visit in Sydney?
The Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge are absolute must-visits. Add Sydney Tower Eye if you want panoramic views. These landmarks define the city and belong on every must do things in Sydney list.
Ready to tick off the must-do things in Sydney?
Sydney is packed with moments that make you stop and say, “Wow.” From iconic landmarks to scenic escapes, these must do things in Sydney help you experience the city in the best way possible. Plan ahead, book smart, and dive into everything this vibrant city has to offer.
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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