One day in Sydney
Firstly, it’s important to know that Sydney is on Gadigal Country. Be sure to learn more about the Gadigal people and the land you plan to explore. Also, support Indigenous businesses as much as possible.
There’s so much to see, learn, and explore in Sydney. Your best bet is to give yourself a few days in the city to really get a sense of it. But, if you only have one day (or maybe two) these would be my top picks for you to explore.
Option 1:
Head to the Opera House for some iconic Sydney photos. Here you can snap the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Then walk to the nearby Circular Quay ferry stop and spend the day on either Manly Beach or at Watson’s Bay. Both boast great beaches and a lovely day spent in the sun. Watsons is your top choice if you’re looking for a quieter time and a stunning walking route while Manly will give you more restaurants/eateries. I’ve written some recommendations for a day on Manly here.
Option 2:
Spend the day walking. You’ll make some stops to spend time exploring and eating. You can also use public transport to help you get to places that are a longer walk or would help cut down your journey time.
I think walking through the city would be the best way to make the most of the day. It won’t be relaxing (because you’ll be on your feet all day) but you’ll be able to see many of the top attractions. Depending on what you want to see, you can break things up over two days or opt to see less and return to Sydney another time to see more. A great recommendation I found on social media was to start at the Anzac Memorial and walk all the way up to Circular Quay. I did something similar but stopped at different places. The walk itself is only about 40 minutes but that doesn’t include the time you need to explore some of the stops along the way, take photos, or even have a bite to eat.
Start your walk in Hyde Park in the Sydney CBD. The recommendation is to start at the Anzac Memorial – a memorial commemorating Australia’s armed forces. For those wanting to enjoy a few stops on the walking route, this is one for the museum-goers and those interested in learning more about Australia’s armed forces and their history. Also check out the Frazer Fountain.
St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney. Photo by L Royds
I enjoyed a (slight detour) stop at St Mary’s Cathedral to marvel at the Gothic architecture. If I’m not mistaken, it is the seat of Sydney’s Catholic Archbishop and its apparently the largest Christian building in the English Gothic style. It’s beautiful. I then went via the Art Gallery of New South Wales which is located in The Domain – a massive outdoor space where locals enjoy concerts. The Domain also has different precincts, one of which offers great views of the bridge. This is also a possible stop. You can catch your breath, enjoy a picnic, play some ball games, or read a book.
Art Gallery of New South Wales. Photo by L Royds
I went this way to check it out and then walk through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden – a highlight of the walk for me. Like many botanic gardens, there are sign posts pointing you to attractions in the garden and I highly recommend that you stop at some or all of them. If you enjoy gardens and all things related to nature, this is a must-visit. Allow yourself plenty of time to explore here. You’ll also need some time to navigate the gardens as things are in various directions.
I then made my way towards the Opera House, walking along the perimeter for views like this:
Leaving the Royal Botanic Garden and heading towards the iconic Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge. Photo by L Royds
I ended up at the Opera House which would be your final stop and another place you can go into for a visit. Obviously, you need to get your iconic shots of the Opera House, the view of Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the view of Circular Quay. I would also recommend you try spot Benny, the seal who enjoys relaxing in the sun on the steps near the Opera House. You have a great view of him – if he’s there when you are. There are barricades to prevent people going down to the steps to touch him so you may need to wait your turn to take a photo on a busy day.
Hello Benny!
There are many bars near the Opera House where you can grab a bite or a drink. After that walk, you’re probably ready for it. Just prepare yourself for the prices. Sydney is a rather expensive city anyway so plan to spend a bit more at these bars and restaurants because of their great location (and fabulous views).
If you have a bit more time, you can take a ferry out to Manly or Watson’s to have a meal there instead of at the harbour or enjoy your picnic there instead. You can also use public transport to head back towards Hyde Park to go shopping or even into Chippendales for attractions like Spice Alley.
