4 perfect days in Sydney


You won’t feel like a newcomer after four days in Sydney, checking off all the must-sees like Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, and the Royal Botanic Garden during your first day. That gives you plenty of time to really get to know Australia’s biggest city, spending another couple of days catching some rays on the golden sands at Bondi Beach, Manly Beach, and a few other spots we locals usually keep for ourselves.
To minimize your trekking time, I’ve organized this four-day itinerary by location. I’ve also built in stops along the way to rest (kicking back on the beach, for starters) and refuel (including several choices for the creamiest gelato) so that you have enough stamina for busy days and fun nights. Even better, my picks are based on Tripadvisor ratings and reviews to make sure you see and taste the very best of Sydney.
Is four days enough?
Sydney is a whopper—covering more than 4,775 square miles—but the area around Sydney Harbour where you’ll spend much of your time exploring is pretty compact. And the destinations outside the city center that you’ll definitely want to see, like the beautiful beaches, are a quick trip by bus or boat. That means four days is more than enough to truly immerse yourself in this global capital.
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Top attractions in Sydney
DAY ONE


MORNING: Rise and shine like the locals
Sydneysiders—what we locals call ourselves—have a deep respect for coffee, which is why there are more than 7,000 independent cafes scattered throughout the city. One of the best happens to be on the grounds of the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. To have the gardens more or less to yourself, get here as soon as it opens and make your way to the Leaf Dept. It’s hard not to spot the cafe, housed in a circular glass building that has the feel of a futuristic greenhouse. My go-to here is definitely a milky latte. You might also want to try a slice of Australia’s famous banana bread, just be aware it’s definitely more cake than bread. Take your treats out on the patio or on the grassy lawn nearby before meandering down the many paths that lead down to the deep-blue water of Sydney Harbour.
The show-stopping moment is when the iconic Sydney Opera House first comes into view. The sight of those pearly peaks reaching up into the blue sky still takes my breath away, and I’ve visited hundreds of times. For a perfectly framed shot with the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background, take the looping trail to a sandstone bench called Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.
Travelers say: “A must-see for any traveler in Australia. From its unique architecture to its diverse program of events, the Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of Australian completion.” —@wilcoxc2017
Almost 12 million people visit the Sydney Opera House every year. It’s a right of passage to pose for pictures on the steps outside, but you can also explore the equally impressive interior if you reserve a spot on one of the tours that are offered throughout the day (the Sydney Opera House Architectural Tour gets high marks from our readers). Or even better, come back in the evening to enjoy a concert.
AFTERNOON: Fill your boots, then walk some more
It’s been a busy morning, ticking off a few of Sydney’s must-sees. Now it’s time to take a load off. There’s also a ton of eateries at Circular Quay, the waterfront area between the Opera House and the edge of the Central Business District. Here you’ll find Aria (another “Best of the Best”), which offers a three-course lunch menu showcasing some of Australia’s finest fare, including spanner crab and coral trout. Also nearby is Quay, with a seafood-heavy menu featuring abalone, mud crab and other favorites plucked right out of the Australian waters. But the most talked about dish here is a dessert called White Coral, a delicate shell of delicious white chocolate. It’s a masterpiece.
These are all high-end experiences with equally high price tags. Locals looking to spend a little less head about a block inland to the sprawling Cafe Sydney, on the rooftop of the 1845 Customs House. It sits just high enough to give you unobstructed views of the entire harbor. The service is smooth, the cocktails are curated to your taste, and the Sydney rock oyster is a must-try.
After fueling up, it’s time to get a history lesson. Within easy walking distance is The Rocks, a historic district where the cobbled streets are lined with grand stone buildings filled with independent shops, pubs, and restaurants. It’s an easy area to navigate on your own, but you’ll learn more local lore on a walking tour. Try Dave’s Pub Walks, where a friendly guide takes you to some watering holes that date back to the 1800s.
EVENING: An illuminating finale
As the sun sets in Sydney, go west to Barangaroo. After a multi-billion-dollar facelift, this waterfront area has been transformed into a swanky drinking and dining district. Barangaroo House is the go-to for happy hour, with its dramatic curved building covered in greenery. Your first stop should be the buzzing bar on the ground floor, which has unbeatable views of the boats on the harbor. There’s also a rooftop bar that comes to life later in the night.
Once happy hour comes to a close, move on to the nearby Nola Smokehouse, which brings the bold flavors of New Orleans to Sydney. Locals love the deep, smoky flavors of its meats—think tender brisket, juicy ribs, and succulent pulled pork—but the standout dish is definitely the creamy mac and cheese, which the restaurant makes in giant batches to keep up with the demand. The atmosphere is lively, the staff is incredibly friendly, and the wide range of cocktails makes the meal even more of a standout.
After dinner, walk along Darling Harbour for a fireworks display that’s reflected in the water every evening. Top off the evening with a scoop or two of creamy gelato from Gelatissimo. It’s hard to choose a favorite flavor, but I’d go with the minty chocolate chip. You’ll probably face a line, but it’s worth the wait.
Tours and experiences in Sydney
DAY TWO


MORNING: Head to the beach—or several of them
When locals want a day at the beach, we often head east of the city to a string of laid-back coastal communities that we call the Eastern Subs. From Elizabeth Street, which runs through the heart of the city, Bus 330 takes about 30 minutes to reach Bondi Beach. This is Australia’s most famous stretch of sand, thanks to a laid-back vibe that attracts surfers from around the world. And it’s equally popular with those who just want to splash around in the waves.
Travelers say: “We had to go to Bondi Beach at least once while we were in Sydney, and it was worth it. The waves were amazing, and we had a great time playing in them. They do get quite large, so you need to pay attention. We also walked the path south of the beach, and the views are fantastic.” —@George P
Bondi’s cafe culture is alive and kicking, and the Porch and Parlour is a stand-out option for its teas, coffees, and cold-pressed juices and smoothies packed with healthy greens. You’ll notice that many of the cafes here have limited seating. That’s because folks who live in the “Bondi Bubble,” as they call it, grab a cup and enjoy it on the sand after a dip.
While other beaches in and around Sydney might have the occasional wave, Bondi Beach has nonstop swells that attract surfers of all skill levels. A two-hour lesson with Let’s Go Surfing will have you up on your feet in no time, even if you’ve never touched a surfboard before.
For those who prefer dry land, you can spend the morning exploring boutiques like Tuchuzy (great for women's wear) and Commune (lots handcrafted housewares). You could literally spend hours poking around shops here. The vibe is definitely easy going, and it’s not unusual to see locals walking around town with bare feet.
AFTERNOON: Grab some hot chips with the locals
One of the best ways to get to know the neighborhood is a stroll along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, a four-mile-long path with breathtaking views of the rocky cliffs. It’s hard to resist snapping photos at every scenic overlook. You can finish the entire trail in about two hours, or take a break in one of the communities you’ll come across. If you need to tap out, you can catch a bus back to the city from anywhere along the way.
The first stop along the trail is Bronte Beach, which has a cluster of small cafes that are perfect for lunch. The charming Bogey Hole Cafe has been around for decades and has built up quite a following. And yes, it’s worth the wait to get a seat. A can’t-go-wrong order is the smashed avocado on toasted barley rye.
Next is Clovelly Beach, where the water is usually calm enough for snorkeling. You’ll find cobalt-blue gropers and a species of stingray called stingarees. A short walk from the beach, the Clovelly Hotel is a great pub where you can enjoy a cold schooner of beer and a dish Australians call chicken parmi: a breaded chicken breast covered in tomato sauce and topped with grilled mozzarella cheese.
If you have the stamina, you’ll get a real sense of achievement walking all the way to Coogee Beach. The lesser-known sibling of Bondi, this is a favorite spot for locals. The beach isn’t as busy, and neither are the restaurants nearby. After all that walking, a slow lunch of handmade pasta and a light white wine at Osteria Coogee feels just right. Or do as the locals do and head inside the Coogee Bay Hotel for a cold pint and a bowl of hot chips (aka french fries).
EVENING: The sound of (live) music
No need to exert yourself anymore—it’s time to slow things down a bit. Sydney has an impressive number of concert halls scattered around the city. The ultimate, of course, is the Sydney Opera House. You can’t beat dinner before or after the show at Bennelong, located inside the atrium. Hervey Bay scallops and Tasmanian southern rock lobsters are a few standouts at this restaurant, rated a “Best of the Best” by Tripadvisor reviewers. One of the longest running items on the menu is the lamington, a traditional Australian cake that Chef Peter Gilmore has given a rather fancy facelift by covering it with chocolate and sprinkling it with flakes of coconut. Every bite is so delicious, you’ll be tempted to order a second one.
Classical music not your thing? There’s also the opulent State Theatre, a historic venue where you can take in rock concerts, stand-up comedy, and even the occasional drag show. And every night of the week there’s jazz, rock, folk, and other types of live music at the Vanguard.
DAY THREE


MORNING: Join the city’s culture club
There are close to 100 exhibition halls, museums, and galleries scattered around Sydney, and incredibly all of them are free of charge. Close to Hyde Park, the sprawling green space on the edge of the city center, the massive Australian Museum is a great place to start. Here you’ll learn about the country’s First Nations people, the oldest continuous living culture in the world. Once you’ve gotten a full education, head to the top floor to the cafe called the Billabong Waterhole. Enjoy a crispy ham-and-cheese croissant and a chocolate-topped cappuccino while you look down over the harbor.
Use your caffeine boost to tour the nearby Art Gallery of New South Wales. As Sydney’s top art gallery, it’s home to a surprising number of Australian, European, and Asian masterworks.
AFTERNOON: Shop and dine like a royal
Take a 15-minute walk or five-minute taxi ride to Sydney’s Central Business District to explore the Queen Victoria Building, opened in 1898. There’s an old-school grandness to this five-story marketplace, which has soaring ceilings, stained-glass windows, and an enormous central dome.
If you’re shopping for clothes, there are plenty of options on the ground floor. But it’s level two that offers something a little more unique. The Aboriginal Art Galleries here has been selling unique pieces by Australia’s First Nations peoples for the past 30 years.
Tucked away on level three is The Tea Room, offering traditional afternoon tea that works as the perfect lunchtime alternative. Served on fine china, the delightful petits four are created by an award-winning pastry chef. If you’re feeling grand, you can spring for a flute of champagne to go along with your scones.
After the QVB, head to the Strand Arcade, a shopping hub and slice of Australian history dating to 1891. Enjoy the rich chocolate of Haigh’s, or try on the Australian version of a cowboy hat at Strand Hatters. It makes a pretty memorable souvenir.
Travelers say: “[The Strand Arcade] is a beautiful example of restored Heritage in downtown Sydney. Loved checking out a large variety of shops and eateries. Excellent relaxed atmosphere which encourages you to slow down, look around - and buy something - which we did!” —@MikeWakefield
EVENING: Head to the hills
Now it’s time to really do like the locals do and head to Surry Hills, a quick taxi ride from the CBD. Here you’ll find a bustling dining scene with tucked-away eateries, sophisticated wine bars, and quirky pop-ups where the party spills out onto the street. Things get more and more amped up as the night goes on.
A favorite of mine is Arthur, a glass-front restaurant with seating for around 30 diners. It serves Australian fare with a twist—like duck breast with tart cherries or zesty lemon scallops. Their extensive wine list is reason enough to visit. For after-dinner cocktails, especially of the tequila-based variety, hit up Tio’s, a colorful Mexican bar that’s always buzzing, especially on weekends.
As for nighttime activities, take your pick between two options: You could sample the unique flavors—like macadamia crunch or chocolate coconut—at the hugely popular Gelato Messina before calling it a night. Or there’s The Beresford, a popular watering hole with an incredible DJ that keeps the party going all night.
DAY FOUR


MORNING: On the water, and in the water
Gazing out over Sydney Harbour is dazzling, but getting out on the water, gliding past the water taxis and million-dollar yachts, is next-level sightseeing. You could spend a small fortune on a private cruise, or simply jump aboard the very affordable Manly Fast Ferry, which drops you off at a beachside community on the other side of the harbor. The journey takes a mere 20 minutes, but every moment is a stunner. The Sydney Opera House is twice as breathtaking when reflected in the water.
Once in Manly, there’s no shortage of beachy cafes, restaurants, and shops. You can’t do better than a creamy hot chocolate, and delicious pastries at Fika Australia. If you’re visiting on a weekend, the Manly Markets has handmade trinkets and homemade eats.
AFTERNOON: Indulge in a little sunbaking
Really, Manly it’s all about the beach. And there are two here to choose from. The first can be spotted when you disembark from the ferry. Manly East Cove has calm water, so it’s a favorite of families with young kids. And bonus: It’s pretty common to spot dolphins from the shore.
Stroll to the other side of the peninsula and there’s also the vast Manly Beach. Think lapping waves, golden sand, and towels laid out for what Aussies call sunbaking (aka sunbathing). Just don’t skimp on the sunscreen.
For lunch near Manly East Cove and Manly Beach, the waterfront Garfish offers uninterrupted views of the water, as well as some seriously fresh seafood. Thinly sliced cured tuna and woodfired prawns or lobster are some of my favorite main dishes.
EVENING: Chinatown is calling
As the day draws to a close, make your way to the city’s bustling Chinatown. (The colorful lanterns and neon signs are clues that you’ve arrived.) Your first stop should be the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Inspired by the classical gardens of the Song Dynasty, it features paths winding past serene ponds, trickling waterfalls, and serene pavilions.
For dinner, opt for expertly prepared Malaysian food at Mamak. Authentic dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) come out of the kitchen so fast that they arrive at your table still steaming. Just a short stroll away is Din Tai Fung, where the xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are a must-try. The steamed pork buns are packed with flavor, but as light as a cloud.
To toast your final night in the city, nearby Bancho has carefully curated cocktails with an Asian twist, The bar has one of the largest arrays of whiskeys in the city, and the bartenders can mix a mean whisky sour.
Where to stay in Sydney for four days
Central Business District: Peace and quiet can be in short supply when you’re in the heart of the city, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at the QT Sydney, the moment the elevator whisks you away from the street to reception. Not bad for a location that’s walking distance from several of Sydney’s must-see attractions. There’s also a 1920s-themed bar with creative cocktails and a Parisian-style bistro that gets everything right.
Circular Quay: It’s all about the location at the Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, within walking distance to the harbor and the botanic gardens. When you book your room, you’ll get the choice between those two views. Waking up early to watch the sun peek out over the harbor is reason enough to book here.
Darling Harbour: With its rooftop infinity pool overlooking the waterfront, the newly opened W Hotel has quickly become one of Sydney’s most popular stays. It has funky and fun rooms with spacious bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes and service that never misses a beat.