Planning a trip to Sydney? Here’s a current, easy-to-use guide for how to get to Australia’s biggest city and the best local attractions for every traveler.

How to Get to Sydney and What to See

Getting to Sydney

By Air

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is Australia’s busiest airport and the primary international arrival point for New South Wales.

International Flights: Major international airlines fly direct to Sydney from Asian, European, North American and other cities.
Domestic Flights: Sydney has frequent services with all other Australian state capitals and major regional centres.

Airport to City (20-30 minute journey times)

Train: The Airport Link train connects the terminals with Central, Circular Quay and City stations in under 20 minutes.
Taxi or Rideshare: Taxi and rideshare apps take 25–35 minutes to the city.
Bus or Shuttle: Private shuttle and public bus services operate to CBD hotels.

By Train

Interstate Trains: NSW TrainLink runs long-distance interstate trains from Melbourne, Brisbane and other regional centres into Sydney’s Central Station.
Local Trains: Trains provide daily commuter and regional rail services to and from Sydney’s suburbs and nearby cities.

By Road

Coastal and Scenic Drives: Sydney is well served by national and state highways and scenic drives, including self-drive itineraries from Canberra or Melbourne or along the Legendary Pacific Coast from Brisbane.
Long-Distance Coach: Long-distance coach companies run regular services to/from major Australian cities and towns.

By Sea

International Cruise Ships: Dock at Circular Quay and White Bay, close to the city’s world-famous harbour attractions.

What to See in Sydney

Sydney is home to world-famous attractions and unique local experiences. Our handpicked list of best Sydney sights has something for first-timers and avid explorers alike:

1. Sydney Opera House

Guided tours of the inside of this world-famous building are available, or admire its beauty from the outside.
Catch a live performance, or soak up the harbour views from the Opera Bar.

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge

Walk or cycle across the bridge for some of the best views of the city.
Book the BridgeClimb for panoramic vistas of the city and harbour.

3. Bondi Beach & Coastal Walks

Swim, surf or just relax at Australia’s most iconic beach.
Take the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk for coastal views, cafés and swimming spots.

4. The Royal Botanic Garden & Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Walk the Botanic Garden’s paths, and enjoy views over the city and harbour from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a photo-worthy local landmark.

5. The Rocks & Circular Quay

Explore Sydney’s historic centre of cobblestone laneways, weekend markets, galleries and pubs with live music.

6. Darling Harbour

Home to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and the peaceful Chinese Garden of Friendship.
Darling Harbour is a bustling hub for waterfront dining and entertainment and family-friendly attractions.

7. Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is a short ferry ride from Circular Quay. Enjoy native Australian wildlife exhibits and views across Sydney Harbour back towards the city.

8. Manly Beach

Hop on a scenic ferry from Circular Quay to Manly for a more relaxed vibe of beach and shops, cafés and coastal walks.

9. Barangaroo Reserve

Walk through waterfront parklands and public art installations, picnic under the sun with views of the city skyline.

10. Museums & Galleries

Art Gallery of New South Wales: Free entry to major Australian and international art collections.
Australian Museum: Natural history, dinosaurs, First Nations people and more.

Sample Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Day	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
1	Royal Botanic Garden	Sydney Opera House tour	The Rocks, Opera Bar
	Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
2	Harbour Bridge, walk/cycle	Darling Harbour attractions	Harbour dinner cruise
3	Bondi Beach & swim	Bondi–Coogee walk	Dinner at Bondi or CBD
4	Ferry to Manly Beach	Explore Manly, shops	Sunset ferry ride back

Local Tips for a Great Visit

Opal Card: Purchase an Opal Card for convenience using all public transport trains, buses, ferries and light rail.
Book ahead: Popular activities (Opera House, BridgeClimb, Zoo) can book out in busy periods.
Sun safety: Wear sunscreen, hats and sunglasses for outdoor sightseeing days.
Stay central: Book accommodation in the CBD, Circular Quay or Darling Harbour for the most sightseeing convenience.
Visit markets: Check out The Rocks Markets (weekends) for gifts and local food.

FAQs

How long should I stay in Sydney?

3–4 days is enough to see the main sights and also enjoy a beach or two, but a week allows for day trips and to discover more hidden gems.

Can I get around Sydney without a car?

Yes! Public transport in Sydney is comprehensive and reliable. Use ferries, trains, buses and light rail to get to most attractions.

Are there free things to do in Sydney?

Yes! Enjoy coastal walks, picnic in the Botanic Garden, free museum exhibitions and outdoor markets.

Which area is best for first-time visitors to stay?

Central Sydney is the most convenient location, especially the CBD, Circular Quay and Darling Harbour areas.

When’s the best time to visit Sydney?

Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) are the mildest times of the year and feature the fewest crowds and many outdoor festivals.

Looking for more travel tips? Contact us via the form at the bottom of the page or in the comments. Happy planning!

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