15 Places to Go in Sydney If You Only Have 2 Days

Welcome to Sydney, Australia!

If you’re short on time and looking for a quick getaway, look no further than sunny Sydney. Where global iconic landmarks meet coastal culture and golden beaches, this Harbour City radiates with natural beauty, art, ferries, and lots of waterfront dining. While you could spend weeks exploring everything this city, sometimes you only have a weekend to spare. The good news? Two days is plenty of time to experience the best Sydney has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for things to do on a weekend or making the most of a stopover, this guide covers the best places to go in Sydney if you only have two days. From sunrise at Bondi Beach to sunsets overlooking the Opera House, here's how to make the most of your 48 hours in the city.

If you’ve only got 48 hours to spare in the sunny city, there’s no better place to go in Sydney than to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Sydney Opera House. Did you know? This famous shell structure, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, was actually chosen among 232 other entries through an international competition held in 1956 by the New South Wales government.

To learn more about this architectural brilliance and its cultural significance, see the exterior and interior spaces up close with a Sydney Opera House guided tour and end with a lovely meal at the Opera Bar or House Canteen. And if you’re one for the arts, try catching a live performance such as Great Opera Hits, ballet, or theater while you’re in the city! 

Sydney’s not called Harbour City for no reason. From the Opera House, you can't miss out on Sydney Harbour Bridge, often called "The Coathanger" by locals. 

Walk across the pedestrian pathway for free and enjoy stunning views of the Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, and city skyline. If you’ve got a few hours to spare, the famous Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb offers a thrilling ascent to the summit that rewards you with 360-degree panoramic views. Plus, if you’re interested in learning about Sydney’s Aboriginal history, the Burrawa Indigenous BridgeClimb is a great experience to learn insights from the First Nations Storyteller.

A short walk from the Harbour Bridge takes you to The Rocks, Sydney's historic neighborhood, where European settlement in Australia began in 1788. A vibrant blend of old and new, wander through the cobblestone laneways, which will lead you past preserved heritage buildings that now house boutiques, art galleries, and pubs. You can also check out the Discovery Museum, which offers a deep dive into the history of the area (for free!). 

All the walking will likely build an appetite, so take a break and stop for a flat white and some smashed avocado toast at a cozy café (a Sydney staple) before continuing your adventure in the city. And if you’re looking for things to do in Sydney on a weekend, The Rocks Markets are a treat. Make sure to browse the artisan stalls lined with local art, handcrafted jewelry, and unique souvenirs. 

For the freshest seafood experience, head over to Sydney Fish Market, where you can taste the catch of the day straight from the source. Known as the city's seafood headquarters, the variety is truly staggering. For lunch, indulge in prawns fresh off the grill, try local specialties like barramundi or Moreton Bay bugs, or enjoy classic fish and chips by the waterside.

After lunch at the Sydney Fish Market, take a 15-minute walk to Darling Harbour, a central spot that captures Sydney's coastal vibe in a lively waterfront perfect for dining and entertainment. You’ll find plenty of attractions to explore, where you can easily spend an entire afternoon. 

Take a ferry from the Darling Harbour waterfront to the Aquarium at Darling Harbour, where the highlight for many is SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. Here, you can wander through underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks and rays, interact with adorable penguins, and meet cuddly koalas. 

Right next door, you can get yourself a Madame Tussauds Sydney Ticket, which offers a fun experience where you can snap photos with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, sports stars, and Australian icons. It's particularly popular with families and makes for entertaining photos to share with friends back home.

For the best panoramic views of the entire city skyline, ascend Sydney Tower Eye, Sydney’s tallest structure. Feel the adrenaline as you rise above the cityscape and see the Blue Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and the harbour glittering below. 

It's the perfect way to see all the places to go in Sydney and spot landmarks you've already visited or plan to see next. And to save up on your Sydney adventure, consider getting a Sydney Attractions Pass, which includes access to up to four attractions, including SEA LIFE Sydney, Madame Tussauds, and Sydney Tower Eye. 

After taking in the views, enjoy a peaceful stroll through Hyde Park, located right next to Sydney Tower. This vast open space in the heart of the city is the perfect spot to rest and relax after all your activities. At the southern end, you'll find the stunning Art Deco Anzac Memorial, a beautiful tribute to Australian and New Zealand soldiers—a nice opportunity for quiet contemplation before diving into dinner. 

As the sun begins to set, take the train from Museum Station (near Hyde Park) to Wynyard Station and head to Barangaroo for dinner. Choose among the many waterfront restaurants ranging from casual eateries to more upscale dining and enjoy the outdoor seating for the harbour breeze. After dinner, end your day at the Barangaroo Reserve and stroll through the pathways lined with native plants and art installations. It tends to be less crowded than the main tourist spots here, but you still get wonderful and relaxed views of the water—a perfect way to wrap up your first night. 

Now, what kind of trip to Sydney would be complete without experiencing the famous waves of Bondi Beach? For that quintessential beach experience, this is one of the most essential places to go in Sydney. So knock up early to beat the crowds and visit the country’s most famous beach. 

Catch the sunrise and watch the sky turn pink over the Pacific Ocean as early birds paddle out their first wave of the day. And don’t miss out on the chance to soak up the embodiment of Australia’s coastal culture by trying a Bondi surf lesson yourself. Then, grab some breakfast or brunch at one of the cafés lining Campbell Parade for a hearty breakfast plate (trust us: you’ll need a big breakfast after surfing). 

Once you’re done catching the Bondi waves, take the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, a 6-kilometer trail with gorgeous beach views that’ll have you stopping at every corner for photos.  This trail takes about 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace and passes through some beautiful beaches, including Tamarama, Bronte, and Clovelly. Keep an eye out for flocks of seabirds flying overhead, and don't miss the ocean baths at Bronte and Coogee—these saltwater pools carved into the rocks are free to use. As you arrive at Coogee, dig in for lunch at one of many dining options along the coast.

After your beach escapades at Bondi and Coogee, you’ll probably want to rest up at your accommodations before exploring the other places to go in Sydney. Getting back to central Sydney is pretty easy and convenient. But if you don’t have a car with you, luckily, Sydney has an extensive public transport system of trams, buses, and taxis.

Calling all art lovers! Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales to discover some amazing local and international exhibits on your last afternoon in the city. Immerse yourself in the realm of art and culture as this impressive gallery houses Australian, European, and Asian art with works that span centuries—from Indigenous Australian art to modern contemporary pieces. The best part? Entrance to the permanent galleries is free. But, if you want to check out the special exhibitions, you can pre-book your Art Gallery of New South Wales Ticket and Guided Tours here.

Adjacent to the art gallery, the Royal Botanic Garden offers a green sanctuary right in the heart of the city. Find your inner zen among the lush greenery and admire Australia’s diverse flora of native and exotic plants, flowers, and trees. 

Head to Mrs Macquarie's Point and grab a seat at Mrs Macquarie's Chair for what is arguably considered the best view in Sydney, or find a spot on the Bennelong lawn overlooking the harbour. Take a moment to just sit down, unwind, and look back on the memories you’ve gained in your short little getaway. 

End your Sydney adventure with your final dinner at Circular Quay. You would’ve already passed this area during a walk between Sydney’s most iconic attractions, but this tourist hotspot transforms into a completely different character once the day begins to set. There’s no better place to be during golden hour. Watch as the city lights up in magical aura, with the warm amber glow of the sun cast on the Opera House and Harbour Bridge and ferries sailing across the water. 

With a full circle moment, savor a memorable meal overlooking Sydney Harbour. Fancy yourself a show at the Opera House (if you haven't already) or a simple and quiet evening from one of the many waterfront spots to conclude your trip.

While this covers the essential places to go in Sydney, the city has so much more to offer—from the Blue Mountains day trips to hidden speakeasies in Surry Hills. But the beauty of a two-day getaway is that you get to sample a taste of everything. So when you’re ready, pack your swimmers, charge your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable 48-hour trip. (And expect to leave already planning your next trip, with a list of places you didn't have time to explore.)

Absolutely! There’s plenty of places to go in Sydney packed with fun activities for all ages and interests! From surfing at Bondi Beach and climbing the Harbour Bridge to exploring aquariums and museums, you’ll never run out of things to do. 

Sydney has plenty of incredible free experiences to enjoy. Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge, marvel at the Art Gallery of New South Wales permanent collection, explore the Royal Botanic Garden, or sunbathe at the beautiful beaches—all without spending a single dollar.

With only 48 hours, you’ll definitely want to make the most out of the city. Spend day one exploring the classics such as Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour, then save day two for beach activities at Bondi Beach and the coastal walk to Coogee.