7 days in Sydney, Australia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Ah, Sydney, Australia! This vibrant, cosmopolitan city is a delightful mix of natural beauty and modern charm. With its stunning beaches, iconic landmarks, and thriving food scene, Sydney is a haven for all things culture, style, and relaxation. Stroll along the breathtaking coastal walks, immerse yourself in the bustling cityscapes, or lose yourself in the lush greenery of the Royal Botanic Garden. And let’s not forget the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, standing tall as symbols of this incredible city.
Things to consider before arriving in Sydney
Multicultural city with diverse experiences
Beach lovers’ paradise
Higher cost of living and visiting
Ideal for city explorers and nature enthusiasts
What to bring with you
1. Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
2. Comfortable walking shoes
3. Lightweight clothes for warmer months and layers for cooler evenings
4. Beach essentials (swimsuit, towel, etc.)
5. Reusable water bottle
Best time of the year to visit
If you’re looking for warm, sunny days and idyllic beach weather, then plan your visit between December and February. However, for mild temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season months of March to May or September to November.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is the main international gateway to the city. From there, you can hop on the Airport Link train which takes you directly to the city center in about 15 minutes.
2. By train: If you’re arriving from another city in Australia, long-distance trains are available and can be quite a scenic journey.
3. By car: You can always rent a car and drive into Sydney along Australia’s excellent highways, but be aware of toll roads and limited parking in the city center.
7 day city guide trip to Sydney, Australia
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
Start your day at the iconic Opera House and take a guided tour inside to learn about its history and construction, then stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden and enjoy the scenic views of the Harbour Bridge. Head to the Darling Harbour for lunch and explore the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and the Australian National Maritime Museum. End your day with dinner at the trendy Barangaroo precinct.
Day 2: Bondi Beach and Coastal Walk
Spend the day at one of the world’s most famous beaches, Bondi Beach, and take the stunning coastal walk to Coogee Beach. Enjoy lunch at one of the many beachside cafes and bars, then head back to Bondi for a swim and some shopping at the Bondi Markets.
Day 3: Day trip to Blue Mountains National Park
Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains National Park to see the famous Three Sisters rock formation and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the charming mountain villages of Leura and Katoomba, and take the Scenic World cable car for a bird’s eye view.
Day 4: Art and Culture
Start your day at the Art Gallery of New South Wales and admire the stunning collection of Australian and international art. Then head to the trendy neighborhood of Surry Hills for lunch and explore its vibrant street art scene. End your day with a visit to the historic and vibrant area of The Rocks, and enjoy dinner at one of its many restaurants or pubs.
Day 5: Sydney Harbor Cruising
Take a harbor cruise to admire the stunning views of the city skyline, Sydney Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. Enjoy lunch on board and disembark at Manly Beach to spend the afternoon swimming, surfing, or exploring the area’s cafes and shops.
Day 6: Day trip to Hunter Valley Wine Region
Take a day trip to the Hunter Valley wine region and explore its many vineyards and wineries. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch at one of the region’s many award-winning restaurants, then head back to the city for a night out in the vibrant Kings Cross nightlife area.
Day 7: Beach Hopping and National Park Visit
Spend your last day exploring some of Sydney’s nearby beaches, such as Tamarama, Bronte, and Clovelly. End your trip at the stunning Royal National Park, where you can hike and swim in secluded beaches.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Sydney
If you’re looking to continue your adventure after Sydney, consider a visit to Melbourne, a city known for its arts and cultural scene, famous sporting events, and the Great Ocean Road. A flight to Melbourne takes just over an hour or a scenic train ride takes approximately 11 hours.
Alternatively, consider a visit to Cairns, located in Tropical North Queensland. Here you can experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and explore the lush rainforests of the Daintree National Park. A flight to Cairns takes just over 3 hours from Sydney.
