Things to do during a short stay in Sydney, Australia

Sydney is the most well known city in Australia for a reason – it’s just a wonderful place to visit! I’ve been to Sydney a few times now and it is one of those places that I never seem to get sick of. There is always something to do and it never fails to impress. It certainly has one of the most beautiful locations in the country, with its picturesque harbour at the centre of everything. Although I’ve never visited Sydney for a long length of time, I find that I manage to fit quite a lot in during my short trips to the city. If, like me, you only have time for a short stay in Sydney, find yourself some accommodation right in the city (even better, find a hotel with a harbour view), and explore the city from there. Here are some things that you can do to make the most of your time Sydney.

View of the Sydney CBD and Circular Quay from the Opera House

Circular Quay

Located in Sydney Cove, right in the heart of the CBD, Circular Quay is your gateway to Sydney Harbour. Ferries travel from here all around the harbour and it is always a hive of activity. From here you are also treated to amazing harbour views to the Opera House, the Rocks and the Harbour Bridge. It is also a great place to grab a drink or a bite to eat at one of the bars or restaurants overlooking Sydney Cove.

View of Sydney Harbour from Circular Quay

Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is probably the most iconic building in Australia due to its unique architecture and stunning location right on the harbour. You don’t need to be into Opera or going to see a show or function here to appreciate this building. It is one of those must see places that you just have to visit when you go to Sydney. I particularly like going here at dusk to watch the sunset over the Harbour Bridge and watch the lights of the CBD come to life.

Sydney Opera House at sunset

The Rocks

Formerly an industrial and shipping warehouse area, the historical area known as The Rocks has been transformed into a trendy cultural district with lots of great pubs and restaurants to try out. With a great location on the harbour with views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and full of beautiful old historic buildings, this is one of my favourite parts of Sydney, and the perfect place to go for a meal and a drink or two.

Exploring The Rocks

Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Harbour Bridge is another icon and must see in Sydney, its arches spanning the harbour. Due to its location it is hard to miss, and where ever you go around Sydney Cove and the Rocks you will catch glimpses and grand views of it all over the place. If you’re keen and willing to pay for it, you can also climb to the top of the bridge on a tour, which I imagine would provide incredible views of the city, particularly at night.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge as viewed from The Rocks

Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens makes up a large area of green space right on the harbour in the centre of Sydney. Opened in 1816, the gardens have large areas of different flora, but you don’t have to be a plant nut to appreciate this place. It is a lovely place to go for a walk, explore and get lost amongst the expanse of greenery. If you start at the Southern end, you can wander through to the waterfront where you can wander along the harbour and back to the Opera House and Circular Quay. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is also located at the south east corner of the gardens, so you could spend a lot of time in this area if you wanted to.

Flowers in the Royal Botanic Gardens

Chinatown

Sydney has a fantastic Chinatown located in Haymarket between Central Station and Darling Harbour. If you’re after cheap and tasty eats, this is the place to go in Sydney. Make sure you try some Emperor’s Puffs, located in a tiny window on Dixon Street.

Chinatown

Paddy’s Markets

If you’re into your shopping, you will love Sydney and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to shops throughout the city. If you’re after something a little different, head to Paddy’s Markets, located in Haymarket just across from Chinatown.

Paddy’s Markets

Hyde Park

Hyde park is almost an extension of the already large green space of the Botanic Gardens, and another lovely place to go for a stroll or a picnic. Located at one end is the ANZAC Memorial, and towards the other end you will see the beautiful architecture of St Mary’s Cathedral. The Australian Museum is also located next to the park.

Fountain in Hyde Park

These are just a few ideas for your short stay in Sydney and there is plenty more to do. Be warned though – once you visit Sydney, you will want to keep coming back time and time again.