✨ Introduction: Things to Do in Sydney City
Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city, is a dazzling destination where world-famous landmarks meet laid-back coastal charm. Nestled along the sparkling shores of the Pacific Ocean, Sydney is a city that truly has it all — stunning beaches, lush green parks, fascinating museums, vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural heritage.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a food lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone looking to relax by the sea, Sydney offers an endless array of experiences to enjoy. Stroll through the historic Rocks district, enjoy a ferry ride across the picturesque Sydney Harbour, take in panoramic views from the top of the Sydney Tower Eye, or soak up the sun at Bondi Beach. With its mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, Sydney is a city that invites you to explore, discover, and fall in love with every corner.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best things to do in Sydney City — from must-see tourist attractions to hidden gems only the locals know. Get ready to uncover the magic of Sydney, one unforgettable experience at a time.
1. Go to the beach
Sydney has some amazing beaches to explore. Whether you prefer to lie on the sand and pamper your skin or enjoy the waves on a surfboard, there is a beach to suit every traveler.
While Bondi Beach is the most popular and one of the biggest tourist attractions, be sure to find your favorite! Still, visiting Bondi Beach is worth it.
Many of Sydney’s beaches are easily accessible by public transport, with buses running along many of the eastern beaches. Many of Sydney’s beaches are also connected by walkways, allowing you to stop at each highlight and walk the vast expanse of coastline.
2. Walk around the Sydney Opera House
It would be foolish to visit Sydney and not get close to the infamous face of the city, and perhaps Australia itself, which is the Opera House. It’s on every postcard in the city so you have to see it for yourself!
There are many tour options online for guided tours inside the building, but unfortunately, if you want to stick to free activities, the outside view is enough.
However, the outside of the Sydney Opera House is very impressive and you can get some stunning photos of it. For some, the outside is more impressive than the inside, and we agree!
But if you want to catch a glimpse of the inside, you can walk through the main entrance or visit one of the cafes inside the Opera House.
3. Enjoy the view from the Sydney Harbour Bridge
While climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is quite an expensive experience, simply walking across the magnificent structure doesn’t cost a penny.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s most iconic structures and offers some truly stunning views of the harbor.
Walking across the bridge from north to south offers the best views of the city, rather than walking further away. This is one of the best things to do in Sydney, a complete stop, let alone a free one.
Depending on your pace and how often you stop to take pictures, it will take you about 15-30 minutes to walk the length of the bridge. And we recommend you stop many times, take a look...
4. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney are very interesting and showcase some of the best greenery in Australia. These gardens are home to hundreds of species of trees and plants, many of which are native to Australia. One of the best things about Australia is seeing things you can only see in Australia, right
With a few exceptions for special occasions, they are free to visit and enjoy every day of the year.
5. Walk between Bondi and Coogee
While Sydney's beaches are perfect for relaxing, travelers who like to get some exercise and enjoy the coastal scenery will love the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk.
The walk is quite easy as the entire section is paved and about 6 km long, and the views along the way are spectacular.
It takes most people about two to three hours to walk between the two beaches together, but you can easily spend much more time, stopping at many places to take pictures or relax in the sun.
And if you ask us, it’s worth it to make a few stops along the way for a swim and some time on the beach. Why not dedicate an entire day to walking the trail and enjoying the beach?
6. Admire artwork at the Art Gallery of New South Wales
Entry to the Art Gallery of New South Wales is completely free, no matter your age or country of residence.
Culture lovers should take in this museum when visiting the city. The gallery houses a range of paintings, sculptures and other artworks, as well as a library and archive.
The Art Gallery is actually made up of multiple buildings that you can share over multiple days, and there are changing exhibitions so you never know what you’ll see on your trip.
Even if you’re not a huge art fan, it’s still worth checking out. As a budget traveller, you sometimes try new things because they’re free, and we recommend giving the gallery a try.
7. The Rocks Markets
The Rocks Markets is Sydney’s most popular weekend market and has some great stalls to browse.
The markets are filled with a wonderful atmosphere and many locals often wander around without intending to buy anything, just to sniff around and enjoy the atmosphere. As the saying goes, “When in Rome…” you can also walk through the markets without buying anything.
However, if you are looking for a new delicious treat, some unique artwork or some award-winning high fashion clothing, you will definitely find it at The Rocks Markets.
8. Visit Sydney Harbour National Park
Sydney Harbour National Park is a beautiful, peaceful area of New South Wales and is well worth a visit if you find yourself in Sydney.
The park overlooks some of Sydney’s most beautiful areas, including the harbour, and has some great walking trails, suitable for everyone. The phrase “escape the hustle and bustle of city life” couldn’t be more true about the park.
Sydney Harbour National Park is responsible for protecting many of Sydney’s coastal islands and ensuring that the biodiversity is thriving, so there is an entrance fee to the park.
But... if you walk in, you don't have to pay. It's for vehicles only, and if you're visiting Sydney on a budget, you're unlikely to have a car, right?
9. Explore Sydney's street art
Sydney has a great street art scene and you can spend a few hours finding your favourites while saving money and having an enjoyable experience.
Newtown and Surry Hills are two of the most popular areas in the city where you can find some great murals to admire.
You'll find street art all over the city; on walls, on the sides of buildings and even on the streets, but if you're looking for free things to do in Sydney, why not go in search of some of the best?
10. Visit Bicentennial Park
Bicentennial Park is a 40-hectare parkland located near the city centre of Sydney. The park was opened for the Sydney Olympic Games and has been maintained ever since, and it's stunning.
Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, Bicentennial Park is a beautiful area to stroll and enjoy a relaxing afternoon coffee. And believe me, Australians love their coffee!
In the park you’ll find playgrounds, picnic and barbecue facilities, as well as plenty of other amenities that make it an ideal place to spend some time, no matter what you’re planning to do.
11. Complete Cahill’s Walk
The Cahill’s Walk stretches from the Royal Botanic Gardens to the Sydney Opera House and is the perfect activity to bridge the gap between the two sights.
Walking over the infamous Sydney Harbour Bridge offers some great views of Circular Quay, which is similar to other top free things to do in Sydney. So, this walk is key to having a great time in Sydney.
We recommend doing this walk at night to experience the city lights and take some great evening photos of the harbour.
12. Window shop at Glebe Market
While you can’t literally window shop at Glebe Market, you can do it better and see what’s on offer without the windows!
Glebe Markets is best known as the perfect location to pick up second-hand clothes and other items. With over 200 stalls located on the grounds of Glebe Public School every Saturday morning, you’re sure to find the perfect souvenir to take home with you.
Fashion is the best section at Glebe Market where you can find plenty of great deals. But there are also plenty of stalls selling quirky items, handmade jewellery, vintage accessories and more.
13. Go back in time on a tour of the General Post Office
The General Post Office is one of Sydney’s most famous buildings and this tour is very popular with tourists (especially since it’s free!).
The post office is now a hotel but the history of the building is explained by a resident tour guide and there’s a lot more to the building than you might expect.
You can book your free ticket on the hotel’s website, you just need to reserve your place.
Some tours are exclusive to hotel guests, but if you book in advance, you’ll definitely find a spot on one of the public tours.
14. Take in the splendor of St. Mary’s Cathedral
St. Mary’s Cathedral is a remarkable work of art in terms of its construction and decoration. The cathedral is home to some beautiful stained glass windows and historic statues.
Australia isn’t known for its beautiful churches, but St. Mary’s is an exception and you should definitely check it out.
Although the cathedral is open to the public to wander around at your leisure, donations towards its upkeep are appreciated, but not mandatory.
You can also take a free guided tour of the cathedral at 2pm on Sundays to learn more about the building’s history.
As with most cathedrals, you are expected to dress respectfully and appropriately (knees and shoulders covered).
15. Visit The Rocks Discovery Museum
The Rocks Discovery Museum is definitely one of Sydney’s hidden gem museums, and if you weren’t looking for free things to do in Sydney, you’d probably never have heard of it.
The museum is housed in an 1850s sandstone warehouse and houses a wealth of photographs and artifacts that tell the story of Sydney’s “The Rocks” suburb.
We know, it doesn’t sound like much… but trust us. It’s a really interesting place to spend a few hours. If nothing else, it’s free, and if you don’t like it, at least you didn’t waste any more time.
The free museum has a lot of interactive exhibits with both audio and visual activities available that bring history to life in front of you and help make the experience more enjoyable.
16. Cycle around Sydney
Sydney has some great cycleways that wind through its coastline and beautiful parks. Cycling in Sydney is a great way to spend the day and you’re sure to discover some great photo opportunities.
Whether you fancy a challenging mountain bike trail or a leisurely cycle across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, you’ll find the perfect place to explore on two wheels.
Of course, this activity is only free if you have a bike, but don’t worry if you don’t have that luxury – you can hire bikes in Sydney for around $25 Australian dollars per day.
17. Take a free walking tour
One of the best ways to explore any city is on a free guided walking tour.
Walking tours give a great insight into the history of a city and give you the chance to get to know your place in a new place.
Tour guides can offer lots of helpful tips and recommendations for the rest of your trip and are the perfect people to ask any burning questions that the internet can’t answer.
Taking a free walking tour is a great way to meet new people from all over the world who are just as interested in traveling as you are!
18. Stroll through the Queen Victoria Building
The Queen Victoria Building is home to over 150 retailers and restaurants, so it’s the perfect place to do some window shopping, which is one of the best free things to do in Sydney. But you shouldn’t visit the building just for the shopping!
The Queen Victoria Building is one of Sydney’s most elegant buildings and its design and craftsmanship are unparalleled.
The QVB was built in the 19th century and has a stunning central dome and beautiful stained glass windows. It’s truly home to the high-end boutiques that frequent its walls.
19. Stroll through Hyde Park
This list may seem a little park-heavy, but for good reason! Sydney has a huge range of parks that are perfect for exploring on a budget.
The greenery on display in Hyde Park makes for a great walk and is definitely big enough to spend a whole day in.
Hyde Park is located right in the heart of Sydney, easily accessible by public transport and surrounded by other free attractions like St Mary’s Cathedral, which will help you spend more time on your walk.
20. Have a picnic at Observatory Hill
Observatory Hill is one of the most romantic spots in Sydney where you can relax with a loved one or just friends.
Located atop one of Sydney’s highest natural points, you’ll get some beautiful views of the Opera House and Darling Harbour below you.
Strolling around at sunset with a bottle of wine and some food is the perfect recipe for falling in love with your partner all over again!
Or if you just want to fall in love with the sunset even more, this is the place to be. Australians are known to love their sunsets, and this is one of the best places in Sydney.
21. Hike the North Head Walking Track
The North Head Walking Track is definitely a trail you should make time for during your trip to Sydney.
It’s a track that has up to 10 kilometers of varied walking trails and some amazing lookout spots along the route.
Don’t forget to pack a good camera as the North Head Walking Track offers some of the best lookouts the region has to offer over Sydney Harbour.
You can also discover the history behind the area by visiting the on-site visitor centre, which is also free to enter.
22. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal history at the Australian Museum
The Australian Museum is a must-see when in Sydney, and not just because it’s free. The museum offers some thought-provoking insights into the founding of Australia and provides visitors with a deep history of the First Nations people.
Australia is a pretty fascinating country to learn about. Its history is quite unique – after all, how many countries can say they went to war with emus?
The Australian Museum is the city’s oldest museum and has a wide range of exhibits on everything from nature, science to culture and history. It looks at the past of many countries and continents, as well as exhibits that reflect the creation of Australia.
23. Try snorkeling at one of Australia’s best snorkeling spots
Snorkeling is a fun pastime for all ages, but it can be difficult to find a safe spot, especially right next to the city. Luckily, Cabbage Tree Bay is just a short walk from Manly and is one of the best spots on the entire coast of Sydney.
The area is a government-protected marine reserve, so you can expect to spot a variety of species here, including blue groupers and small Port Jackson sharks. It has crystal-clear waters that allow you to see for many metres in front of you, and you can get some great photos underwater. It’s an incredible experience, and all you need is a snorkel and mask.
24. Climb the Overseas Passenger Terminal Observation Deck
An observation deck located at the end of Circular Quay where you can see some stunning views across the harbour. Why not count the number of ferries coming and going by observing them?
The observation deck is a great place to take photos of some of Sydney’s most iconic structures and a great way to spend some time.
You can take an elevator to the second floor of the tower and then climb just a short flight of stairs to the upper deck for the best views. Luckily, getting a panoramic view isn’t as difficult as in Europe where you have to climb 20 flights of stairs!
25. See contemporary art at the White Rabbit Gallery
Last but by no means least on our list of free things to do in Sydney is the White Rabbit Gallery. The White Rabbit Gallery promises the best of Chinese contemporary art.
The gallery focuses on post-2000 artworks which are updated regularly so that visitors can immerse themselves in unique artistic styles.
So even if you're not really into art, check it out anyway. It's very modern and the artwork is quite in keeping with the backpacker mentality.
📝 Conclusion: Things to Do in Sydney City
Sydney is more than just a destination — it's an experience filled with unforgettable moments, iconic sights, and vibrant energy. From exploring historic landmarks and relaxing on world-famous beaches to discovering hidden laneways and enjoying diverse cuisine, every traveler can find something to fall in love with in this stunning city.
Whether you're planning a short getaway or a longer adventure, the things to do in Sydney City will leave you inspired and eager to return. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
❓ FAQ: Things to Do in Sydney City
Q1: What are the must-visit attractions in Sydney City?
A: Don’t miss the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanic Garden, Darling Harbour, and The Rocks historic district. These iconic spots offer a mix of culture, history, and incredible views.
Q2: What’s the best time to visit Sydney?
A: The best time to visit is during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller compared to peak summer months.
Q3: Is it easy to get around Sydney without a car?
A: Yes! Sydney has an excellent public transport system including trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. The Opal Card makes travel easy and affordable for tourists.
Q4: What are some fun activities for families in Sydney?
A: Families will enjoy Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Luna Park, Sydney Tower Eye, and beach days at Bondi or Coogee. There are also many family-friendly museums and parks.
Q5: Are there free things to do in Sydney City?
A: Absolutely! Walk across the Harbour Bridge, explore The Rocks, relax at Circular Quay, visit free museums and art galleries, or unwind in the Royal Botanic Garden — all without spending a cent.
Q6: What are the best day trips from Sydney?
A: Popular day trips include the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley wine region, Port Stephens, and the coastal Royal National Park — all within 1-2 hours from the city.
Q7: Is Sydney safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Sydney is generally very safe for travelers. As with any big city, just take normal precautions, especially at night or in less busy areas.
Q8: Can I swim at Sydney beaches year-round?
A: Swimming is most popular in the warmer months (October to April). While you can swim year-round, water temperatures drop during winter, so it’s best for experienced or cold-tolerant swimmers.
📣 Ready to Discover Things to Do in Sydney City in 2025?
Sydney is calling — and 2025 is the perfect year to answer! Whether you're chasing coastal adventures, cultural landmarks, foodie delights, or unforgettable views, this dynamic city has something for everyone. With exciting new attractions, upgraded experiences, and timeless classics, there's never been a better time to explore.
So why wait? Start planning your Sydney adventure today and uncover the very best things to do in one of the world’s most iconic cities. ✨🌏