10 Things to do on a Weekend Away in Sydney
If you’re in Sydney for a good time
- Bondi Beach
Source
Yes, it’s a popular choice, but this legendary landmark is popular for a good reason. It’s a busy but beautiful beach that’s bursting with a number of activities. Swim in the clear, refreshing blue water or take a surfing lesson. Have a coffee on Campbell Parade. Embark on the famous six-km Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for views of Sydney’s magnificent cliffs and beaches.
- Circular Quay
Source: Destination NSW
Not only is it the best place to get a ferry to one of Sydney’s other excellent destinations, Circular Quay is a bustling city hub with attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, a promenade full of dining options. On the western side, that promenade leads to our next place to visit on a Sydney weekend getaway.
- The Rocks
Source: Destination NSW
The place where European settlers first stepped ashore in 1788, The Rocks is Sydney’s oldest area. Keeping the old stone buildings and cobbled laneways, it’s been transformed into a shopping, dining and bar district with markets on the weekends, all nestled beneath one end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
- Bars
Source: Barangaroo House
In Sydney, the problem isn’t finding a bar you’ll love – because you’re guaranteed to be spoilt for choice – but knowing where to begin. Want basement bars down secluded laneways with walls of whiskey like the Baxter Inn? How about rooftop bars with superb views of the city or the Harbour like Barangaroo House? Hipster hangouts? Cocktail lounges? Wherever you find yourself in Sydney, there’s always an exciting fresh venture nearby with cocktails and craft beers to boot.
- Beaches and Bush Walks
Source: Destination NSW
We’ve already mentioned the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, but Sydney has a stack of other scenic walks among beaches, bushes, cliffs and coastline. The Hermitage Coastal Walk at Rose Bay is only 1.8km long yet passes a secluded rock pool ideal for a sneaky swim, as well as some impressive views of Sydney Harbour.
- Brunch Spots
Source: Destination NSW
Sydney, of course, is a great dining destination. But instead of just looking at the best places to get dinner, why not check out some brunch options? You don’t have to get up as early as you would at breakfast time, which is handy if you’ve been out the night before, and
Source: James Horan; Destination NSW
The Harbour Bridge is one of the most popular places to visit on a weekend away in Sydney, and you can enjoy an unforgettable experience by scaling to the top of it. A range of climbs are available – dawn, day, dusk and night – all offering 360-degree views of the city.
- North Sydney Olympic Pool
Image source: Destination NSW
Right next to Luna Park and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this outstanding pool has some impressive views of Sydney’s landmarks. Multi-task by sightseeing and fitting in your daily exercise.
- Cockatoo Island
Source: Destination NSW
Catch a ferry to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed island in the middle of Sydney Harbour. A former convict gaol, reformatory and shipbuilding yard, Cockatoo Island is rich in preserved convict-built structures and, of course, cockatoos.
Source: Destination NSW
Dazzlingly beautiful, the Blue Mountains has cable car rides over deep valleys and landmarks like the Three Sisters. While you’re here, ride the Katoomba Scenic Railway or take a walk to Wentworth Falls.
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