With heaps of activities in Sydney, you might wonder, is it possible to see all of it in one day? Whether you’re a tourist or a Sydneysider looking to explore the city, there’s plenty of things to do in Sydney for a day!
There are attractions you can go to back-to-back, like the trio of SEA LIFE, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, and Madame Tussauds. There are also cruises along Sydney Harbour, perfect for sightseeing. Plus, a whole slew of fun activities and destinations to go to!
Need some recommendations? Here are our top pics of what to do in Sydney in a day:
- Kick start your tour at Sydney Tower Eye
- Then take a short drive to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
- Go on a short walk to SEA LIFE
- Madame Tussauds is also just a few minutes away!
- Have a private luxury picnic at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
- Or have a sky-high buffet at SkyFeast at Sydney Tower
- ...or at Sydney Tower Infinity Bar and Dining
- Start your afternoon on a Sydney Harbour Bar Cruise
- Then speed through the waters on a Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Adventure
- And chill out on a Sydney Harbour High Tea Cruise
- Go on a Sydney Opera House Tour and Dine at Sydney Opera Kitchen
- Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour
- Sydney Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours (Open-Top)
- Sydney Harbour Icons Guided Walking Tour
A Super Start in Sydney
1. Kick start your tour at Sydney Tower Eye
Start your Sydney one-day itinerary at the 250-metre high Sydney Tower Eye, where a 360-degree view of the city awaits. You’ll see all of the city from there, including iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and even as far as the Blue Mountains on clear days!
2. Then take a short drive to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
When visiting Sydney, it's essential to see Australia's "big five" native animals—the kangaroo, koala, quokka, echidna, and the Tasmanian devil. Luckily, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is only a short drive from Sydney Tower Eye!
3. Go on a short walk to SEA LIFE
Just a short walk from WILD LIFE is SEA LIFE Sydney Zoo, where you’ll find 13,000 marine animals in 14 themed zones. There’s Dugong Island, home to friendly dugongs, and Shark Valley, a tunnel where sharks swim above you.
4. Madame Tussauds is also just a few minutes away!
Another essential thing to do when in Sydney for a day is posing with life-like wax figures at Madame Tussauds. Meet pop culture icons such as Taylor Swift, Angelina Jolie, Superman, Captain Marvel, and more!
Lunch With a View (Options)
5. Have a private luxury picnic at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
Lunch is also part of your Sydney tour, especially when you have a private luxury picnic at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. You’ll also see the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge in full view. The best part? You don’t have to prepare your picnic hamper. Leave it to the pros when you book this picnic on Klook!
Need more picnic venue ideas? Check out the ten best picnic spots in Sydney with a view!
6. Or have a sky-high buffet at SkyFeast at Sydney Tower
Another great lunch option that offers a fantastic view is SkyFeast at Sydney Tower. Get a 360-degree rotating view of the city from the 82nd floor of the tower. Plus, enjoy delicacies prepared by Head Chef Stefan Schröde!
7. ...or at Sydney Tower Infinity Bar and Dining
Sky-high dining is definitely an essential thing to do when in Sydney for a day, and Infinity Bar and Dining does not disappoint. It's situated on the 81st floor of Sydney Tower and offers unobstructed city views with delectable contemporary Australian cuisine.
Sydney Harbour Adventures
8. Start your afternoon on a Sydney Harbour Bar Cruise
Set a relaxing mood for the afternoon on a Sydney Harbour Bar Cruise, where you’ll coast along the waters to admire the incredible city skyline and Sydney landmarks. All while enjoying the best cocktails onboard!
9. Then speed through the waters on a Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Adventure
One of the best things to do when in Sydney for a day is a Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Adventure, which combines unmatched views of the city and high-speed thrills. You’ll pass by Harbour Islands (Clark and Shark), the suburbs of Rose Bay, Watson's Bay, Taronga Zoo, and more!
10. And chill out on a Sydney Harbour High Tea Cruise
Another great Sydney Harbour experience is this high tea cruise. You’ll indulge in a delectable British high tea set with heavenly desserts. Of course, you’ll also be sailing across the harbour while munching on your treats!
Guess what? You can also hire a private boat in Sydney for a more intimate sailing experience with your loved ones!
Grand Finale With An Icon
11. Go on a Sydney Opera House Tour and Dine at Sydney Opera Kitchen
End your day with a bang and go on a Sydney Opera House Tour and Dine at Sydney Opera Kitchen. What better thing to do in Sydney for a day than to explore a cornerstone of Australian architecture? After your educational experience, you’ll delight in a meal that includes wine, beer, and soft drinks—a fine finale to your tour!
Also want to check out other Sydney itineraries and tours? Check out these walking and sightseeing tours!
12. Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour
The Sydney Opera House is a true Aussie icon. If you’re wondering what to see in Sydney in one day, you should include this on your list. Learn all about its history and marvel at its unique architecture on the Sydney Opera House Guided Walking Tour!
13. Sydney Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours (Open-Top)
Create your own Sydney one-day itinerary on a Sydney Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours. Hop on at any of the designated stops in the city and hop off at your destination of choice. Explore Sydney at your own pace!
14. Sydney Harbour Icons Guided Walking Tour
Whether you’re a tourist or a Sydneysider, it’s always a good idea to discover or rediscover the city’s backstory through its scenic highlights. The two and a half hour Sydney Harbour Icons Guided Walking Tour will take you to all the best spots in the city, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, magnificent Sydney Opera House, and more.
Need more touring inspo? Check out the best day trips in Sydney!