9 Things to do for International Travellers in Sydney
With an endless lineup of sights to see and things to do, Sydney is a vibrant and bussing multicultural hub for foodies, families, adventure seekers, art lovers and everyone in between.
If you’re a first-time traveller, you might be overwhelmed with the tantamount of must-do things in the big city. So we’ve come up with an international traveller’s guide to Sydney that strikes the perfect balance between its top attractions to experience the city like a local.
Hop on a Sydney Bus Tour
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The Sydney Hop-On, Hop-Off tour is the perfect way to tick off all of the city’s iconic tourist destinations such as the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, Australian Museum and more. A popular choice for both interstate and international travellers, these tours can be customised to fit your itinerary.
Experience The Rocks Markets
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A great place to see, hear and taste Sydney’s best all in one place. Live music and tempting smells of local and international gastronomic delights fill the air at The Rocks Friday Foodie Markets. On the weekends, the sandstone and quaint cobblestone laneways showcase curated stalls of local talent, from bespoke homeware and one-of-a-kind fashion to decadent chocolate creations. Located at Jack Mundey Place, Playfair Street, Sydney NSW
Climb up the Sydney Tower Eye
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If you’re short on time, you can get a glimpse of the whole city from Sydney's tallest building. Rising 250 metres above the streets, the Sydney Tower Eye offers unparalleled, panoramic views of this stunning city. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to see the Northern beaches white sands, the famed Blue Mountains, and the harbour in all its glory. Located at 100 Market St, Sydney NSW
Meet a Koala at Taronga Zoo
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This quintessentially Aussie addition to your itinerary takes you on a safari adventure right in the heart of the city. Easily accessible by public transport, within just a 15-minute ferry ride from the CBD, Taronga Zoo has an amazing collection of local and international wildlife. You can see the majestic Sumatran tigers or encounter the Australian Little Penguins up close! Located at Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW
Take a ferry to Darling Harbour
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Discover all of the city’s fantastic waterside attractions through a leisurely ferry ride from Circular Quay to the lively Darling Harbour. The 20-minute trip takes you under the Harbour Bridge and around the Opera House, offering a stunning perspective of these iconic landmarks. You can use an Opal card, or purchase single trip or multi-trip travel passes. If you’re in town on a Saturday, you’ll be able to see the sky light up with a spectacular display of fireworks at Darling Harbour, while enjoying some nibbles in one of the areas many amazing restaurants.
Shopping spree on Oxford Street and Crown Street
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With an amazing showcase of Australia brands, such as Camilla, Zimmerman, and Bassike, Oxford Street is often frequented by A-list celebs (Kim and Kanye West, Reese Witherspoon, Pia Miller and Will.i.am to name a few). If shopping is not your cup-of-tea, the area is dotted with boutique cafes and fantastic restaurants with a menu of Aussie favourites. We especially love Ampersand cafe & Bookstore. And if you’re up for vintage finds and timeless fashion pieces, you’ll find just what you need at Crown Street in Surry Hills. Exuding with artsy vibes and retro feels, this charming city-fringe suburb has a lot to offer. Find out more about Surry Hills. Located at Oxford St, Paddington & Crown Street, Surry Hills NSW
Stroll through Hyde Park
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You simply can’t leave Sydney without visiting Australia’s oldest public park. With an extensive selection of flora and well-kept gardens lining the walking paths, Hyde Park is a sight for green-thumbs and flower fanatics alike. The parks leafy open spaces and fresh air is a welcome oasis in the middle of a concrete jungle. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a full day of exploring the city or have a picnic with friends. If you perfectly time your trip, you can see the park come alive, hosting various major events such as the Sydney Festival, Australia Day, ANZAC Day and the Food and Wine Fair. Located at Hyde Park, Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW
Take a day trip to Luna Park
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Experience the thrill of the Tango Train, climb aboard the nostalgic carousel or brave the Devil’s Drop at the iconic Luna Park, the first of its kind in the country. This historic harbourside amusement park is justifiably well-loved by tourists and locals for its line up of colourful rides, nostalgic carnival treats, and an endless amount of fun things to do. Located at 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point NSW
Sample Sydney’s best seafood at the Sydney Fish Market
Credit: Sydney Fish Market
You might think this is an odd one on this list, but trust us when we say this is a must-visit place for anyone. Sydneysiders will readily rave above this seafood mecca, featuring restaurants and retailers serving up freshly caught and cooked seafood feasts. Filled to the gills with every seafood imaginable, you’ll be taken on a culinary adventure at the Sydney Fish Market. From fresh salmon sashimi, stuffed clams, steamed king crabs, to the crowd-pleasing fish and chips combo, there’s something to satisfy anyone’s craving. Located at Pyrmont Bridge Rd, Sydney NSW.