Would it really be a trip down under without a kangaroo sighting and a koala cuddle? The ferry ride alone is worth the admission fee – you’ll get a chance to see the harbor from the water and glide past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Bradley’s Head Rd.
Mosman, NSW 2088
+61-299-692-777
Nothing squashes jet lag like a little pampering. A personalized facial or quick manicure by the continent’s best will have you rejuvenated in no time.
Level One, 72 Queen St.
Woollahra, NSW 2025
+61-293-633-662
Step back in time and experience a historic Sydney estate. Tour the property and gardens, lunch in the tearooms, and learn how to create elderflower wine and ginger beer in one of the cooking workshops.
Wentworth Rd.
Vaucluse, NSW 2030
+61-293-887-922
After perusing the latest exhibit, visit the café and sculpture terrace for alfresco dining with the harbor as your backdrop.
140 George St.
Sydney, NSW 2000
+61-292-452-400
Sydney's leading museum has Colonial era works and one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art. Hours are extended on Wednesday nights with a weekly program of talks, performances, and films.
Art Gallery Rd., The Domain
Sydney, NSW 2000
+1-800-679-278
Located on the site of Sydney's first farm, the Royal Botanic Gardens were established by Governor Macquari in 1816. Incredible harbor views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Come an afternoon stroll to Mrs. Macquarie's Point or a gourmet picnic from David Jones' food hall.
Mrs. Macquaries Rd.
Sydney, NSW 2000
+61-292-318-111
Iconic Australian swimming club known for its dedicated members — to qualify you must swim at least three Sundays of the month throughout the winter. Buy a day pass, enjoy lunch at The Sundeck Bar, and take a swim in the Olympic-size seawater pool.
1 Notts Ave.
Bondi Beach, NSW 2026
+61-291-303-120
A must do if you're visiting in the summer. Seats sell out online before the show date, but most screenings sell a few tickets at the door. Movies are a mix of new and old favorites. With everything from handmade pizzas and Japanese curry udon noodles, these are not your average movie snacks. Arrive early, save a good seat, enjoy the cocktail bar, and avoid sitting under the trees or you'll set yourself up as a target for droppings from the local fruit bats.
Fleet Steps, Mrs. Macquaries Point
Sydney, NSW 2000
+61-130-036-6649
The ultimate Australian beach. Grab brekkie at a local café, spend the day watching surfers catch waves, then head to the bar at Icebergs for some prime people watching and gorgeous sunset views.
Bondi Beach, NSW 2026
Weekly market with fun, creative Australian fashion and craft stalls. This is the place in town to discover under-the-radar designers and vintage treasures. Bring cash and eat lunch at one of the food stands — they have everything from Himalayan cuisine to Turkish Gozlemes.
395 Oxford Street
Sydney, NSW 2021
+61-293-312-923
It's hard to believe this Australian icon has only been around since 1973. The performing arts center hosts operas, the Australian Ballet, and the Sydney Theatre Company. If you're not able to take in a show or tour, grab a drink at the Opera Bar and enjoy the spectacular harbor views.
Bennelong Point
Sydney, NSW 2000
+61-292-507-111