Things to do in Sydney

Sydney Opera House? Tick. Harbour Bridge? Tick. Likewise, Bondi and Manly beaches, Centrepoint and The Rocks. But as every Sydneysider can tell you, there’s always something tucked away nearby ­– or hiding in plain sight ­– that’s not on the tourist checklist, but could be just the surprise you’re hoping to stumble upon. It could be a locals only swimming spot, a little known historical site or a must try cafe. So take off the tourist goggles and follow our guide to looking at Sydney with fresh eyes. 

Where to eat

Stride out on the Manly to Spit Bridge walk and you'll find Forty Beans Espresso Bar, overlooking North Harbour Reserve in Balgowlah. It’s a friendly, not too fussily decorated space with big open windows to the street and all the major comfort foods you can cram into one menu: homemade cakes and salads, big New York style sandwiches, gelato, smoothies and, of course, powerful coffee.

For a little snack off the beaten path, take an Aboriginal Bush Tucker Tour in the Botanic Gardens. On this tour you can walk with a First nations guide as you learn about the traditional uses of Indigenous bush foods and how they have adapted to the modern palate and plate. It's a one hour tour that will take you in small groups through the Cadi Jam Ora garden where you'll spot some of hottest bush foods on the market right now, and have a little taste yourself!

For something French and sophisticated, head underground to Bligh Street’s Restaurant Hubert in the heart of Sydney. As the owners say, a fine restaurant is as much about the ambience, conversation and laughter as the quality of the wine and food. And when you’ve got both, well, no wonder critics write things like “People who love restaurants ­– their history, their romance, their theatre ­– will love Hubert”.

Another hotspot for those who love history is Hotel Palisade at Millers Point. After being shuttered for seven years, the historic 1915 watering hole has been transformed by a $5m makeover, the crowning glory of which is the two level Henry Deane cocktail lounge with its wraparound glass windows giving perhaps Sydney’s most panoramic view ­– from the Harbour Bridge to Darling Harbour. Settle in, order a Cannon Fodder rum cocktail and share a plate of kingfish and coconut ceviche.

What to see

You don't need to be a scholar to visit Sydney University's Nicholson Museum, a little known treasure that contains the Southern Hemisphere's largest collection of antiquities. Located just off the main quadrangle, the museum first opened in 1860 after the university's second chancellor, Sir Charles Nicholson, gifted his entire private collection, the basis for today's 30,000 artefacts of artistic and archaeological significance from Egypt, Greece, Italy, Cyprus and the Near East. For kids, though, the large Lego model of Pompeii may well be the main attraction.

In the hip suburb of Chippendale, Judith Neilson's White Rabbit Gallery is home to a fascinating collection of contemporary Chinese art, including video installations and interactive exhibits. Make sure you stop by neighbouring Spice Alley in nearby Kensington Street to check out the hawker style eateries.

Where to play

For a unique view of Sydney ranging from the Pacific Ocean and Blue Mountains, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Opt for the Burrawa climb experience and get unrivalled views of the Indigenous landmarks around Sydney Harbour including Bennelong and Barangaroo, all while hearing the stories of Australia's First Nations people. Burrawa means 'above' or 'upwards' and you'll be encouraged to experience the iconic birds-eye view from an Aboriginal perspective; looking down on the shores where Patyegarang taught William Dawes the language of Sydney; and learning the origins of the familiar place names that circle the water’s edge.

Barangaroo is one of Sydney's newest dining and shopping precincts, but has long been an area of important cultural significance. Take an Aboriginal Cultural Tour to learn about the Indigenous history of the area and admire the 75,000 native Australian trees and shrubs in this harbourside reserve — a must for green thumbs. Or visit one of the city's oldest spaces and take a tour around The Rocks. From this now modern, built up area, learn from the oldest ecologists, conservationists, botanists, and astronomers about how ancient wisdom fits in to modern life.

Where to stay

Sydney accommodation offers a diverse range of options to suit every pace and preference. For those wanting to wake up to iconic harbour views, hotels like the Park Hyatt Sydney and the InterContinental Sydney in Circular Quay provide luxurious comfort right next to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. If you prefer something budget-friendly yet central, Ibis Sydney World Square and The Capsule Hotel in Haymarket offer great value without sacrificing convenience.

For a unique stay immersed in local culture, boutique hotels like Ovolo Woolloomooloo and The Old Clare Hotel in Chippendale and Surry Hills blend heritage charm with modern style, close to vibrant cafes, galleries, and nightlife. Coastal escapes are equally accessible — at Bondi, the QT Bondi offers a trendy vibe steps from the surf, while Manly’s Novotel Sydney Manly Pacific provides stunning ocean views and family-friendly amenities.

NRMA Members can also save 15% off daily car hire rental rates at SIXT, Sydney.