Sydney is one of those cities which features on almost everyone’s bucket list. A trip to a country as big as Australia will usually mean that you have allotted more to than one day to enjoy everything on offer in this cosmopolitan city, but that’s not always possible. If you’ve got a jam-packed itinerary, and have just one day to see the city sights, check off everything we have suggested to make the most of your time.
Morning
The best way to start your day is to head out to Bondi Beach. Escape both the wrath of the scorching sun and the hordes of people with an early morning visit. Take a stroll through the surf whilst you watch the dedicated surfers battling with the waves. If you think you’re brave enough, book a lesson in advance and have a go yourself! After this, hit one of the seafront cafes to fill up on a proper Aussie brekkie, then head back to the city via Centennial Park. The first of many wonderful parks in Sydney, Centennial Park is worth a detour. You can easily spend an hour or so here, if not longer. Explore on horseback or hire a bike.
Similar to Oxford Street in London, the Australian version is named Paddington. Even if you plan on window shopping, don’t miss out! Parade your way down the designer lined boulevard which will take you all the way into the city.
Late Morning
Keep on going until you reach China Town. This boasts a great atmosphere and plenty to see. Spend some time at Paddy’s Market at the Haymarket. A bit like a flea market, it also sells a range of goods and is the place to go to pick up your souvenirs.
The next stop of the day is the wonderful Darling Harbour. It offers so much to see and do plus many, many photo opportunities. Check out a film at the IMAX theatre or drop in at Sydney Aquarium. It’s one of the best in the world, with plenty of interesting underwater critters plus some more alarming residents too.
Afternoon
Stop by at one of the eateries to fill up at lunch time. There is a selection of well-known takeaway brands dotted around or several other classier joints. Whatever you fancy, it will be catered for. For something more luxurious, Quay restaurant is the place to head. It combines fantastic views and a reasonably priced but delicious three-course set lunch menu.
Let your food go down with a walk around the stunning Botanical Gardens, which are located next to the harbour. From here, head to Circular Quay and jump aboard a ferry to Taronga Zoo. The animals here have an unbeatable view of the city. With daily koala encounters and a chimpanzee sanctuary, you can’t really say no!
As the heat of the day begins to subside a little, head to the Harbour Bridge to embark on the epic climb! Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the iconic Opera House 134 metres below you. The guided tour will take around 3.5 hours. Pre book an early twilight ticket which will see you reach the summit as the sizzling sun begins to set.
Evening
Once you’ve got both feet back on firm ground, stop for a pre-dinner drink at one of the harbour bars. A city as diverse as Sydney affords a huge array of eateries to choose from. Dine at the Opera House restaurant – Bennelong where you can overlook the huge structure you just stood at the top of! The restaurant is run by one of Australia’s best-known chefs and offers contemporary Australian cuisine with a French flair.
By the time you’ve finished eating you will have just enough time for a quick drink in the bar before the evening show commences; whatever it may be, it’s definitely worth watching. In the unlikely event that you don’t enjoy it, you can still boast that “I actually went inside and watched a show at the Sydney Opera House.” Once the show is over, lose yourself in the bustling and eclectic nightlife that Sydney has on offer.
Have you been to Sydney? How did you spend your day there? Or are you planning a trip there soon? Let us know in the comments.
