Best 25 Things to Do in Sydney Australia: After a Great Month Here

P Sherman 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney, Australia is probably the cultural icon that put Sydney on the map for you. At least, it was for me! After watching Finding Nemo more times than I can count, it made me want to visit Sydney. But also, ever since I was young I’ve always wanted to see the Sydney Opera House in person. Its amazing architecture draws more than 10 million people each year! Of course, you can’t forget the famous Bondi Beach as well, with its ultra-famous Bondi Iceberg pool which is over 100 years old. But this barely scratches the surface of fun things to do in Sydney, Australia.

I recently spent a month in Sydney after spending a month in Melbourne visiting relatives and exploring around. Melburnians and Sydneysiders have infamous beef with each other, with each declaring their city better than the other. Melbourne’s coffee culture and CBD have Sydney beat. But Sydney’s proximity to nature, beaches, and famous tourist sites makes it stand out. But regardless of the fight for first place, you’ll have an amazing time in either city. I spent one month in Sydney and tried my best to do it all. Luckily, there were still so many things left to do after. So, if you’re visiting Sydney soon, here are the top things to do in Sydney, Australia!

1. Visit Bondi Beach

This is Sydney’s most iconic beach.

Bondi Beach is Sydney’s most famous beach. Its name is derived from the Aboriginal word “Bondi” meaning “water breaking over rocks.” Located in East Sydney, Bondi is popular for its blue water, soft sand, and great surfing waves. But beyond beautiful scenery, Bondi has a strip of great restaurants, cafes, and boutiques you can enjoy on a day out. There’s also an amphitheater where musicians busk and grassy areas with some shade. It’s also famous for the ‘Sculpture by the Sea’ contest that happens every October with amazing sand sculptures along the coast.

It’s also famous for having lots of rip currents which are really strong return currents that pull people from the shore fast. The popular Discovery show Bondi Rescue refers to Bondi Beach, which also happens to have the oldest surf lifesaving club in the world and Australia’s oldest swimming club, Icebergs. The Bondi Icebergs Club uses a unique outdoor rock pool, which is one of the most photographed ocean pools in the world!

How to Get to Bondi Beach from Sydney: You can easily access Bondi Beach by public transit from central Sydney. Take bus 333 or 380 from Circular Quay and you’ll get dropped off straight onto Bondi Beach waterfront.

Tips: Don’t go on hot days, Bondi Beach will be extremely crowded. There won’t be any place to put a towel or blanket on the sand! Pay attention to the swim current signs that say whether it is dangerous to swim. And please, please wear and reapply sunscreen! The Australian sun is no joke.

2. Do the Bondi to Coogee Walk

The best and most beautiful coastal walk in Sydney.

The Bondi to Coogee Walk is a spectacular coastal walk that offers stunning cliff-top views. This natural coastal route has been used by locals for many years. Start at the iconic Bondi Beach and make your way south on this 6-kilometer trail while hugging the cliffs and seeing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll see crashing waves, jagged rock formations, serene tidal pools, and stunning beaches, including Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, and finally Coogee.

The Bondi council maintains the path well so it’s easy to walk. The Bondi to Coogee walk was one of my favorite activities to do in Sydney. I recommend walking it 2-3 hours before sunset! Give yourself time to stop, enjoy, and take pictures because you’ll want to stop and snap every couple of feet. This walk is a must-do if you visit Sydney!

3. Enjoy a Day in Watsons Bay

Ferry to the east side of Sydney and enjoy a day out on the peninsula.

Nestled on the eastern tip of the Sydney peninsula is Watsons Bay, a picturesque village that was once a fishing village. Now, it’s a popular getaway from busy Sydney where you can soak in calm waters and enjoy a nature haven. From here, you can hike and see breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the magnificent Sydney Harbour on the other.

A hidden gem is Lady Bay Beach, which is a legal nudist beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, the hike to Hornby Lighthouse is a must which is a short, 15-20 minute hike to the candy-striped lighthouse. It’s probably one of the eastern-most points of Sydney, and you’ll see a great view of the Pacific Ocean and the horizon.

After finishing your hike or exploring the island, grab a bite at one of the restaurants in the village. You can get a nice ice cream, refreshing coffee, and, of course, fresh seafood. It’s the perfect way to end an afternoon in Watson Bay before heading back to Sydney by ferry. It was one of my favorite day trips to take and I experienced it all with a new friend I made from Argentina during my travels in Australia!

How to Get to Watsons Bay from Sydney: Take the F9 ferry from Circular Quay to Watson Bay.

4. Walk Along Sydney Harbor

View the breathtaking panorama of both the Sydney Harbor Bridge and Sydney Opera House in one place.

Sydney Harbor is where the city’s vibrant pulse meets the tranquility of nature. This iconic waterway began with indigenous heritage and evolved into a bustling colonial port and now, a global landmark. What truly draws visitors, besides its storied past, is the sheer beauty of the landscape. A walk along the harbor, especially in the evening, is nothing short of magical.

On my second day in Sydney, I went to see an evening concert at the Sydney Opera House. I remember being in awe walking the harbor for the first time. From Circular Quay, the Sydney Harbor Bridge is the first structure in view. Then, once you walk the eastern straight of the quay, the Sydney Opera House is in view on the right. Just imagine: two of Sydney’s most iconic structures, the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Sydney Opera House both lit up and glittering in the dark sky. The scene took my breath away.

Beyond its aesthetic allure, the harbor is a hive of activity, teeming with restaurants, cruises, ferries, and cultural events. The Rocks Market lines the west quay, where you can shop for local souvenirs and enjoy relaxing cafes. Lastly, this is THE BEST PLACE to see sunset. Specifically, it’s best viewed from the steps or observation deck on top of the steps of the Sydney Opera House. In the summertime, the sunset is purple, pink, and orange and perfectly highlights Sydney CBD’s silhouette. It’s simply marvelous. There’s so much to do at Sydney Harbor and it’s great both in the day and nighttime.

5. See a Concert at the Sydney Opera House

Enjoy incredible music in a UNESCO World Heritage Site concert hall.

The Sydney Opera House is one of Australia’s most visited tourist attractions. Inaugurated in 1973, its inception started with Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s groundbreaking design selected from an international competition. The structure’s iconic shell-like sails, inspired by nature, is made from over a million self-cleaning tiles, soar towards the sky. The innovative and modern design is so unique and in 2007, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you love architecture or are curious about the Opera House, you can take a tour of the building for 45 AUD. But the best way to experience it is to catch a concert, where you’ll get a totally different experience compared to touring the structure. You get transported to a whole different world and the acoustics are world-class.

If you want to enjoy it from afar, walk along the Sydney Harbor, starting from The Rocks on the west side and finishing at the Opera House. Try and time it before sunset, because the Sydney Opera House has the best view of sunset in Sydney.

6. Walk Along Barangaroo

Sydney’s premier dining and commercial district.

Sydney’s Barangaroo District is a bustling urban entertainment precinct which was once an industrial area. Its name pays homage to a powerful Cammeraygal woman, Barangaroo, who was a key figure in local indigenous history.

What makes Barangaroo particularly magnetic is its seamless blend of commercial, residential, and recreational spaces. Barangaroo is primarily known for its upscale dining, commercial spaces, and beautiful waterfront parklands. The district has a range of high-end restaurants, bars, and cafes that offer diverse cuisines and experiences. While it does have some trendy bars and establishments ideal for an evening out, it isn’t known as a “clubbing” district like Kings Cross used to be or Darling Harbor.

A popular excursion is the Barangaroo Reserve, with native gardens and pathways offering unparalleled views of the harbor. You can enjoy a peaceful walk along the water on a path starting from the heart of Barangaroo, to the waterfront promenades, ending directly at the harbor. It’s a great walk to do in the evening, where you can enjoy the sparkling city lights against the water. You’ll also see a different side of Sydney in this part of the city.

Tip: There’s a public restroom in the lobby of the Crown Sydney skyscraper which is conveniently in the middle of the walk. It’s one of the nicest bathrooms I’ve used!

7. Shop at the Queen Victoria Building

The most ornate shopping building ever.

The Queen Victoria Building, casually known as the QVB, is one of Sydney’s most famous buildings with architectural and cultural heritage. Constructed in the late 19th century during a period of great prosperity, this Romanesque Revival building was originally a marketplace which has gone through various transformations, but still retains its historic charm. Now, QVB is a five-level shopping center spanning an entire block of George Street that is a shopping mecca.

In QVB, you can shop and eat to your heart’s content! You’ll find chain retailers, high-end boutiques, artisanal cafes, local brands, and art galleries inside. Besides shopping, check out the intricate stained glass windows, ornate tiling, and majestic central dome. It’s an iconic piece of Sydney history that you can either shop through or walk through as a way to get from place to place by walking through its underground shopping mall.

Tip: The George Street side of the QVB is a popular photo spot for the building. However, I think the QVB looks great no matter which angle you capture it from. QVB’s architecture really glows during golden hour, though, when the sun hits the almost-gold-colored walls and glows in the orange sun.

8. Visit North Sydney

Take the train across the Harbor Bridge and see the suburban side of Sydney!

North Sydney, often viewed as a quieter counterpart to central Sydney, boasts a unique charm that mixes suburban tranquility with urban vitality. While it’s undeniably more laid-back, it certainly doesn’t skimp on attractions and activities. The North Sydney CBD, with its skyscrapers and commercial hubs, is the secondary business district pulsating with energy during work hours. Just a couple blocks away is Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, a lush, hidden oasis crafted with love, offering a peaceful retreat with meandering paths and panoramic views of the harbor.

If you head a bit further north, Chatswood emerges as a vibrant neighborhood, brimming with multicultural eateries, shopping precincts, and a lively arts scene. And of course, no visit to North Sydney would be complete without experiencing the vintage charm of Luna Park, an amusement park that has been delighting both the young and the young-at-heart for generations. The amusement park is especially known for its iconic 9-meter-tall smiling face entrance. And if you time it correctly, enjoy browsing the Kirribilli Market, one of Sydney’s largest secondhand bargain markets.

9. Walk Along Darling Harbor

Don’t miss the fireworks show at Darling Harbor!

Darling Harbour, merely a block or two from Sydney’s central business district is a popular waterfront promenade for jogging, cycling, walking, and more. It connects several Sydney attractions, including the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, and Australian National Maritime Museum. Once the sun sets, Darling Harbour turns into a lively evening area with an array of restaurants, bars, and clubs, solidifying its reputation as one of Sydney’s premier nightlife hotspots.

You’ll see Sydneysiders of all walks of life enjoying a nice day out at Darling Harbor and it’s the perfect people-watching area. But the one thing you cannot miss is the famous fireworks show, which has been a long-standing tradition.

Historically, Darling Harbor hosts weekly fireworks every Saturday night, making it a popular weekend attraction. However, if you’re planning to catch the fireworks make sure to check the official Darling Harbour or Sydney events calendar for the most up-to-date information on dates and timings. You don’t want to miss it!

10. Pose in Front of the Coca-Cola Sign

Visit this iconic Sydney landmark that’s been up since 1974.

The iconic Sydney Coca-Cola sign, often dubbed the “Gateway to Kings Cross,” is one of the largest neon signs in the Southern Hemisphere and is an unmistakable part of Sydney. The sign is prominently displayed at the intersection of William Street and Darlinghurst Road in Kings Cross. Anyone visiting Sydney can easily spot the sign while passing through the area, especially during the evening when its neon lights are on full display.

Over the years, it has undergone several modifications and maintenance works, but its essence and design have largely remained unchanged. In 2015-2016, the sign underwent a significant restoration, during which each of its letters was temporarily removed, creating quite a buzz among Sydney residents and visitors. Once restored, the sign returned to its original glory, continuing to light up the Kings Cross precinct. You can read all about its history from the Coca-Cola website.

It’s a popular photo spot for locals and tourists and is one of the beloved quirks of this city. I recommend having dinner in any of the amazing restaurants on Darlinghurst Road and then walking to see this iconic sign.

11. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art

A gorgeous building, with thought-provoking art, and a hidden rooftop!

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Sydney is a beacon for modern art enthusiasts. Housed in an iconic Art Deco building with a modernist extension, the MCA is dedicated to exhibiting, collecting, and interpreting contemporary art from both Australia and around the world.

The museum proudly showcases an eclectic range of mediums, from paintings and sculptures to digital art and installations. The constantly evolving exhibitions ensure there’s always something fresh and thought-provoking for visitors to immerse themselves in. My favorite exhibit was the modern aboriginal art sharing the life experiences of young aboriginal peoples living in Australia.

A delightful surprise for many is that the MCA offers free entry to its permanent collection, making world-class contemporary art accessible to all. Beyond the artwork, the museum has a great rooftop cafe that serves delicious refreshments but also offers panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge. It’s an (almost) secret viewing spot to both relax and reflect on the art you’ve just experienced.

12. Take the Ferry

It’s not just public transportation, it’s an experience.

I know this might seem a bit strange, but everyone visiting Sydney should take the ferry at least once! Taking the ferry in Sydney is both transportation and an experience. On the ferry, you’ll see unparalleled views of iconic Sydney landmarks, including the majestic Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and beaches dotting the shoreline. You can use the Sydney public transportation Opal card to pay for the ferry. Hopping on a Sydney ferry is like taking a mini-cruise for the price of public transportation!

Sydney’s extensive ferry network connects various points of interest, from Circular Quay to the serene Manly Beach or the historic Cockatoo Island. It’s faster than taking a bus or driving from central Sydney to north Sydney beaches and points of interest.

Tip: The New South Wales government made a special promotion called the “Sunday Funday” fare. This allows unlimited travel on Sydney Ferries (and other public transport modes like buses, trains, and light rail) on Sundays for just $2.50 with an Opal card for both children and adults. Normally, a ferry ticket costs around $7-8 depending on your destination.

13. Walk Through Hyde Park

Sydney’s equivalent to its counterpart in London.

Hyde Park is one of Sydney’s largest parks and it’s Australia’s oldest park. Stretching over 40 acres, this urban sanctuary, named after London’s famous park, is famous for its fig tree-lined walking paths. It’s situated between the Anzac Memorial and the St Mary’s Cathedral, you can’t miss it. It also has the Archibald Fountain, which is decorated in classical and mythological stone statues.

Hyde Park is a great place to go, relax, and people-watch! Walking along the paths makes you feel like you’re royalty—where else can you find such a wide path with flora and fauna on both sides AND with a decorative fountain near the end? It’s a cherished refuge for busy workers and allows breathing room in an urban city like Sydney. And not too far away is the St. Mary’s Cathedral.

14. Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral

The spiritual home of Sydney’s Catholic community.

Plopped between Hyde Park and the bustling stretch of College Street, St. Mary’s Cathedral feels like it’s been plucked straight out of medieval Europe and dropped Down Under. Built in 1868, St. Mary’s Cathedral has Gothic Revival architecture made in local sandstone. Inside there are vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass that filters in a kaleidoscope of sunlight, and has a peaceful interior.

Take a stroll in Hyde Park, admire the Archibald Fountain, and then head into St. Mary’s Cathedral. It’s conveniently located right next to the park and is reminiscent of the Notre Dame Cathedral in France. The architecture is simply outstanding and it’s a nice place to take a break in as well.

15. Eat Through the Chinatown Friday Night Market

Come for food, trinkets, and a lively atmosphere.

Sydney’s Chinatown Markets is a local favorite! Every Friday evening, Dixon Street transforms into a lively street market, drawing in people with irresistible aroma of snack foods and delicacies. You’ll find traditional dim sum, pan-fried dumplings, and fried rice to contemporary Asian treats at this market.

But no visit to the Chinatown Night Market is complete without tasting the famous Emperor’s Egg Puffs. These iconic and cheap snacks garner a long line every day with eager customers waiting to taste these sweet and eggy baked puffs. For 5 AUD, you get 10 freshly baked egg puffs that are slightly sweet, soft, and eggy.

Besides food, you can shop at the stalls brimming with colorful trinkets, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. It’s a great Friday night dinner and activity, especially on a warm summer day. The market always attract a crowd and has a lively atmosphere.

Tip: Bring some cash! Some stalls do not take card.

16. Visit Carriageworks Farmers Market

From horse-drawn carriage workshop to multi-art center to sustainable farming.

Carriageworks Farmers Market is a delightful weekend market with fresh produce, pastries, and food. The market venue used to be a rail yard and carriage workshop in the 19th century. However, in the early 21st century, it became a multi-arts center. The repurposed industrial site has maintained much of its historic charm, with many of its original features like iron and brickwork still in place.

The Farmer’s Market takes place every Saturday where you’ll find seasonal produce, artisanal bread, cheese, coffee, pastries, pet accessories, flowers, and more. Locals and chefs flock to the market, not just for the quality but also for the surprisingly fair prices, making farm-fresh produce accessible to all.

The atmosphere is electric! This is my absolute favorite farmer’s market in Sydney. It has a great vibe, friendly people, and a wide array of products. I loved sitting in the communal lounging area, enjoying a sandwich and drink, and people watching.

17. Visit the University of Sydney

Frolic around Australia’s oldest university and enjoy its stunning architecture.

Founded in 1850, the University of Sydney proudly holds the title of Australia’s oldest university. But besides being a prestigious university, it also has impressive Gothic Revival and contemporary architecture which is reminiscent of Hogwarts, which is based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Its architecture is so famous that tour buses regularly stop here with eager tourists wanting to take pictures on campus. You’ll also see graduating students taking their graduation pictures along the stone walls and under the iconic entry arch.

The best way to explore the university is pretend you’re a university student and take a walk through campus . I absolutely adored walking around the University’s campus. You don’t get many opportunities to walk around a college campus after you graduate, let alone an international campus! It was so nice to imagine myself as a student exploring campus and living a life different from my own. Like, what would it be like to be a university student in Sydney? I love campus touring and the University of Sydney’s campus is a treat.

18. Visit the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney

One of the most famous botanical gardens in the world!

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, established in 1816, is one of the oldest scientific institutions in Australia and one of the most renowned botanical gardens in the world. Over its two-century history, it has garnered accolades for its commitment to plant conservation, scientific research, and public education. The garden, along with the adjacent Domain, is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register which protect the garden’s rich history, structures, landscapes, and plant collections for future generations.

The Botanic Garden is free to the public! You can take food in and have a picnic, walk around, or take a tour. The garden hosts seasonal events and workshops monthly, which you can see on their website. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of their volunteer-hosted plant sales (unfortunately, you can’t take plants out of the country overseas.)

19. Visit Manly Beach

Take a ferry to see this stunning surfer-friendly beach.

Another well-known Sydney Beach, Manly Beach, is one of Sydney’s coastal gems. Located on the Northern Beaches, Manly is a relaxed seaside town known for surfing and swimming. The world’s first surfing contest was at Manly Beach in 1964, so you know it’s the place for surfers to go, mainly for its consistent waves.

Getting to Manly is a treat. Similar to Watson Bay, you can hop on the F1 ferry from Circular Quay and enjoy a scenic 30-minute ride to Manly Beach.

I think everyone should visit Manly Beach once, but my preferred beach in the Northern Beaches is a beach just north of Manly. My reasoning? It’s less crowded and unknown. Popular beaches like Manly and Bondi are iconic and attract a large crowd, which has its own charms. However, my favorite beach is also where the locals go! It’s quieter and cleaner, and I stumbled upon it accidentally…

20. Visit Freshwater Beach (Where the Locals Go)

We love Freshie!

Hidden a stone’s throw away from its renowned neighbor, Manly, Freshwater Beach is a serene alcove cherished by Sydney locals. Unlike its bustling counterparts, Freshie offers a more intimate and relaxed beach experience. The crescent-shaped bay has soft sand and sparkling blue waters and a relaxed atmosphere.

Its surfing legacy runs deep, having hosted Duke Kahanamoku in 1915, who introduced modern surfboard riding to Australians. What a cool piece of history! Beyond the waves and sands, its close-knit community vibe gives it a unique charm. Away from the tourist trails, you can gather here for sun-soaked afternoons, weekend barbecues, and playful beach games. If you’re seeking a genuine Sydney beach experience, Freshwater Beach is the place to go!

This is my absolute favorite beach in Sydney. It’s quaint and calm, where one can go to sit, swim, and clear their heads. In Freshie’s western corner nestles the Freshwater Rockpool, a public swimming pool that’s just as pretty as its more popular counterpart in Bondi. But just beyond the rock pool lies an amazing rock cliff that looks out directly onto the ocean.

It’s a local secret and I happened to find it just from exploring past the rock pool. I can’t describe how serene it is out there—it feels like it’s just you against the world. This is my most treasured thing to do in Sydney by far.

21. Visit Sydney Olympic Park

Experience the park where the legacy of champions meets modern-day adventure and nature.

Sydney Olympic Park is a huge park originating from the 2000 Summer Olympics perfect for a run, friendly gathering, or other outdoor activities. Along the trails you’ll find art installations and wetlands teeming with birdlife. If you like sports, try to catch a live match at ANZ Stadium, or if relaxation is on the agenda, picnics by Lake Belvedere never disappoint. Bicentennial Park offers green meadows, a small lake, and a famous semi-circle of evergreen trees you can snooze under.

Easily accessible by train, ferry, or bus, Sydney Olympic Park is a great place to enjoy a unique blend of athletic history and leisure.

Tip: If you are taking the train into the park, be sure to take the train to Lidcombe station, then transfer onto the Olympic Park line. I made the mistake of going to one of the nearby stations and trying to walk into the park, not realizing how far and inaccessible by foot it is. Save yourself the trouble and take the right train!

22. Eat at the Lakemba Night Market

Taste your way through Ramadan!

Sydney’s Lakemba Night Market is a delightful culinary experience, known for its rich assortment of food primarily from Middle Eastern, South Asian, and Southeast Asian cuisines. This night market springs to life annually during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which is in April. The night market is located in Lakemba, a suburb southwest of Sydney’s central business district and the main location for the night market is on Haldon Street. The street turns into a bustling hive of food stalls, each wafting irresistible aromas. You’ll find an array of delicious food to try, including the famous camel burgers and knafeh dessert.

But honestly, part of the charm is wandering the stalls, chatting with the vendors, and letting your senses guide you to what seems most appealing at the moment. The Lakemba Night Market offers a wonderful opportunity to delve deep into the multicultural essence of Sydney, enjoying Ramadan with the Muslim community. Thus, the market is not just about the food but also about the communal experience.

You can easily take the train out west and you’ll know you’re in the right place when you see, hear, and smell the delicious food. It’s a great place to hang out with a group of friends and also try some Middle Eastern food! My favorite food at the market is the knafeh, from the famous knafeh cart man! It’s ooey gooey, warm, sweet, and crunchy. So good!

23. See the Three Sisters in Katoomba, Blue Mountains

Test your luck and try to see the Three Sisters!

These iconic sandstone formations, named Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo, are famous landmarks in the Katoomba Blue Mountains in Katoomba. The Aboriginal legend is: an elder turned three sisters into stone for protection, only to be tragically left that way forever. This natural splendor and cultural heritage make them a must-visit. But the Blue Mountains have a way of playing hide and seek with their visitors.

The weather, often unpredictable, can wrap these sisters in mist, making their appearance a luck of the draw. Yet, this unpredictability adds to the allure. On a clear day, the panoramic views from Echo Point are breathtaking, but even when the mist rolls in, there’s an ethereal beauty and mystery. But if you’re unlucky, the mist can be so thick that makes it impossible to spot the rugged pillars. You won’t be able to see even 5 feet in front of you!

My friend and I planned to see the Three Sisters, but the morning of it started raining! Hoping to get lucky, we took a gamble on the weather and decided to go anyway. However, to our amusement, not only could we not see the Three Sisters, but we couldn’t even spot the visitor’s center from afar! Looking out on the observation deck was like staring into a gray canvas. But we couldn’t be mad, the weather was out of our control and it made for a funny memory to look back on. If you find yourself in that situation, the city of Katoomba has plenty to do.

24. Visit Katoomba

Antiques and vintage galore.

Katoomba, the jewel of the Blue Mountains, has a history that is as rich and varied as its stunning natural landscapes. Before European settlers arrived, the region was home to the Gundungurra and Darug Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years, with the mountains holding deep cultural and spiritual significance. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Katoomba evolved from a coal-mining town into a chic resort destination, drawing visitors with its fresh mountain air and elegant hotels.

Apart from the scenic attractions, Katoomba has a rich cultural scene. The town itself exudes a vintage charm, with art deco buildings, antique shops, art galleries, and a vibrant café culture. I recommend checking out The Yellow Deli Cafe which is infamously run by a cult. The BEST antique store I’ve ever been to is here: the Victory Theatre Antique Centre. I scored a several thousand dollar vintage wool coat from MaxMara for less than 100 dollars!!!! The Blue Mountains Cultural Centre is also a hub for local arts, while the annual Blue Mountains Music Festival brings a melange of musical talent to town.

I enjoyed exploring this little town with my friend and we had such a good time. Highly recommend pairing this with the Three Sisters and the neighboring Scenic Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world.

25. Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Beautiful architecture and art in one place.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) is located on the edge of Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden and is popular with art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Established in 1871, the Gallery’s mission centers around inspiring and engaging its audience through art. Committed to serving the wider community, the AGNSW provides access to significant works of art, in diverse forms, from across the world and throughout the ages. Their extensive collection spans from traditional and contemporary Indigenous Australian art to European old masters, Asian antiquities, and cutting-edge contemporary pieces.

However, the very architecture of the gallery is itself a masterpiece; it is both timeless and forward-looking. The sweeping interiors, high ceilings, and abundant natural light provide a serene environment for the art exhibited inside. It’s a delight to just walk in and around the museum. Beyond just being a center for artwork, the AGNSW positions itself as an active participant in cultural discourse, regularly hosting exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs. A visit to this gallery isn’t merely about viewing art; it’s about immersing oneself in the evolving narrative of human expression. Best of all, it’s free!

Your Turn to Pick Things to Do in Sydney, Australia

Sydney is one of my favorite cities to visit, and I would honestly consider moving there if I had the opportunity. This bustling city has nothing short of things to do, see, and experience, and even after spending a month there, there are plenty of activities left. While a couple of days in the city might be enough to see the top tourist attractions, I think the charm of Sydney is that it’s a great place to live. Surely, you’ll see why Sydney is one of my favorite cities to visit once you experience all the best things to do in Sydney for yourself. Happy travels!

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