Top 25 Sydney Attractions (2023)
Home to some of the most well-known buildings in the world, Sydney is one of Australia’s largest city. It is not only bestowed by natural beauty but many modern and sophisticated buildings that decorate the skyline. Come and experience the rich culture and food that Sydney has to offer, starting with this list of the top 25 attractions that can be found here.
1. Art Gallery of New South Wales
Designed in classic Vernon style is this temple of Art that is located in the Domain in Sydney. Art Gallery of New South Wales is a prominent museum in Australia and is a popular tourist attraction. First opened in 1871, this gallery is a leading cultural institute to nurture, inspire and encourage creativity through the many exhibits that can be found here which originates from Australia and every part of the world.
Operating Hours: Thursday – Tuesday, 10:00am – 5:00pm | Wednesday, 10:00am – 10:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
2. Bondi Beach
Covering 122 hectares of land, Bondi Beach is an iconic Sydney landmark that is known throughout the world. Located just 8km away from the city centre, this is an ideal beach getaway that offers great fun under the sun with plenty of boutique street stalls nearby. The shoreline is covered with soft golden sands, with calm waves that are perfect for surfing. The best time to visit is during the summer months from October to April, and the area can get pretty crowded.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
3. Chinatown
Chinatown Sydney sits at the southern part Central Business District and is one of the largest and most significant Chinatowns in Australia. With a short 15 minutes walk away from the Central Station, the street is filled with buildings with oriental architecture, Chinese restaurants and beautiful temples. This place transport visitors a different dimension where you will get a chance to soak in this rich Asian culture. Your journey here will allow you to savour the most authentic Chinese flavours in town.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
4. Darling Harbour
One of Sydney’s most popular attraction, Darling Harbour is located in the centre just 10 minutes walking distance away. This magnificent waterfront is a large recreational area that is perfect for every activity. If you are looking for shopping, entertainment, dining or just sightseeing – Darling Harbour has it all. The harbour also offers a spectacular firework display every Saturday at 9pm.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
5. Hyde Park Sydney
Hyde Park Sydney is a green oasis in the heart of Sydney that grants locals a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Encompassing 16.2 hectares of land, this urban park is one of UNESCO heritage site and Australia’s oldest park. The centrepiece of the park is the Archibald Fountain that was built in 1932 in remembrance of Australia’s contribution in World War I. Another notable monument situated in the south-east of the park is the majestic ANZAC War Memorial that pays tribute to the Australian Imperial Force.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
6. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is an ideal place for nature lovers who seek to have lots of adventure under the sun. The second oldest national park in Australia, it grants visitors a scenic view of the waterways, bushlands, mangroves, sandstone and the Hawkesbury River. There are plenty of trails and boardwalk for those exploring by foot, but you can also opt for to kayak along the river and discover the charm of what this place has to offer. Plenty of picnic and camping sites available around this national park for those we seek to stay here longer.
Operating Hours: Daily, 6:00am – 8:00pm
Ticket Price(s): AU$12/per passenger car
7. Luna Park Sydney
Luna Park Sydney is the second Luna Park in Australia, with both emitting a different charm. Luna Park Sydney is larger compared to Melbourne with plenty of thrilling rides and attractions. In 2019, a new family ride, Volaré was introduced as the tallest and largest ride of its kind in Australia. This exciting ride has 64 seats and twirls at 65 km per hour, availing visitors a chance to fly 23 metres above sea level.
Operating Hours: Friday – Saturday, 11:00am – 10:00pm | Sunday, 10:00am – 6:00pm | Monday, 11:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Price(s): From AU$5 onwards
8. Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Founded in 1991, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia is a popular attraction in Sydney. Not only is it famous for its scenic location at the Circular Quay, but it is also home to 4,000 collections of works from both Australia and International artists. This exhibition allows you to appreciate while encouraging you to interpret these artworks from your own viewpoint. Browsing through the collection, you will see spectacular contemporary sculptures, paintings, photos, and even moving pictures here.
Operating Hours: Thursday – Tuesday, 10:00am – 5:00pm | Wednesday, 10:00am – 9:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
9. Museum of Sydney
There is just so much to be explored here in the Museum of Sydney. Constructed on the site of the former resident of New South Wales’ first Governor, this colonial-design building houses a wide variety of ancient artefacts, relics of old and also plenty of Australia’s history. There are also a fascinating collection of ships, animals and dinosaurs skeleton collections that will leave you in awe.
Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
10. Paddington Markets
Looking for exclusive souvenirs and accessories you can bring home, Paddington Markets is the right place for you. Opens every Saturday at Oxford Street, this market has been around since 1973. What began as a community movement to encourage and support local designers from all around, now is a permanent market with more than 150 street vendors. We guarantee you will not find anything similar elsewhere, as items are sold exclusively in this place. If you are hungry, why not stop over at the International Food Court where you will get to taste a world of flavours.
Operating Hours: Saturday, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
11. Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences
Located near to Darling Harbour, Powerhouse Museum is a contemporary museum that encourages learning and critical thinking in all the visitors; no matter how young or old you are. One of Australia’s leading museum in applied arts and sciences, you will find 500,000 items in the collection that encompass design, science, technology, space exploration, vehicles and many more in one place. This is an informative place where you will get to understand and appreciate how science and technology have advanced over the years and developed the nation of Australia and other parts of the world.
Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Adult – AU$15 | Child – Free
12. Queen Victoria Building
It is in within the centre of the business district is where you will be able to catch a glimpse of this 19th century-old building. Stand majestically with its full grandeur, the building was designed with excellent craftmanship from tile floors, stained glass windows, staircase and balustrades which can still be seen till today. Currently home to 200 of Sydney’s best retails brand and dining experience that fills four levels, you will get to see antiques, Australian crafts, jewellery and more.
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9:00am – 6:00pm | Sunday, 11:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
13. Raging Waters Sydney
Come and have a fun-filled day at this 25 hectares water park. Ideal for families, this largest water park in Sydney offers a splashing cool time during the summer with offerings of more than 40 over slides and attractions. If you are not afraid of heights, you should try out the highlight of the park as it promises an exhilarating experience. The double SkyCoaster plunges from 251 feet 90 degrees before swinging you towards the directions of the Beach at the speed of 70 kilometres per hours.
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday, 10:00am – 7:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Adult – AU$75.90 | Child – AU$65.90
14. Royal Botanic Gardens
One of the main botanical gardens in Sydney, Royal Botanic Gardens encompasses 30 hectares of land in the heart of the city. Enveloping the Sydney Harbour, this is a beautiful recreational garden where locals love to visit for morning strolls, weekend picnic or even garden events. At one part of the riverbed, it provides a stunning view of the Sydney Opera House which can be viewed along thousands of beautiful and rare flower species.
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:30am – 6:30pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
15. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is one of the famous tourist attraction that is ideal for a family outing. Situated in the heart of Darling Harbour, you can easily spend 2 – 3 hours here exploring the 14 aquarium zones and exciting attractions here. Home to 12,000 marine life, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is also the world’s leading aquarium with the most extensive Australian marine collection such as Port Jackson shark, Snapper and Old Wife. The aquarium also offers an exciting experience of snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef tank, swimming along with fishes and sharks.
Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00am – 6:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Adult – AU$46 | Child – AU$33
16. Sydney Fish Market
If you are a seafood lover, this will be the place you need to head to in Sydney. Located downtown of Sydney, Sydney Fish Market is a huge seafood market that will have you spoilt for choice. With an array of fresh seafood, one can choose to either purchase them to be brought home or have it served to you in any of the restaurants and cafes that can be found here. Establishes within the same vicinity, you can have hands-on cooking seafood with some of the leading chefs when you sign up classes with Sydney Seafood School.
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
17. Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge or better know as ‘Coathanger’ by the locals is a 503 metres steel arch bridge across Port Jackson. The bridge was launched in 1932, which took eight years to construct. This iconic Sydney landmark allows visitors a chance to either cycle or even climb up the arches for a stunning 360 view of the Sydney city, 134 metres above the water. With it being neighbours to The Rocks, come dine in any restaurants located at the waterfront to appreciate the bridge from a distance.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
18. Sydney Harbour National Park
For a change of pace, why not visit Sydney Harbour National Park that is situated in New South Wales. This Australian National Park encompasses 392 hectares of land that stretches out from Port Jackson, Sydney and the surrounding islands. The land is famous for its tranquil and calm atmosphere; with hidden beaches, scenic trails and abundance of picnic spots. Hidden within this place are the Australia military and colonisation heritage spots that are waiting to be discovered, such as Fort Denison, Georges Head Battery, Quarantine Station, just to name a few.
Operating Hours: Daily, 6:00am – 10:00pm
Ticket Price(s): AU$8/per passenger car
19. Sydney Opera House
Sydney Opera House is a very famous UNESCO’s World Heritage site that was built in 1959. Located in an idyllic scenic waterfront of Sydney Harbour, this is one of the busiest art centres in the world with over 40 shows a week. This gorgeous monument took 14 years to built and is covered in 1 million roof tiles for the entire structure. As a multi-venue centre, this Opera House also uses its facade as drawing canvas during spectacular light projection shows for people to see from far and wide.
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9:00am – 8:30pm | Sunday, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Adult – AU$37 | Child – AU$20
20. Taronga Zoo Sydney
Taronga Zoo Sydney is the biggest zoo in Australia that first opened its door on 7 October 1916. It is an excellent destination to be close and personal with many native and international creatures that reside here. This 28 hectares zoo consists of 8 zones and is a residence to 4,000 animals. The African Savannah was recently launched, enabling visitors to see the animals roam free in a habitat that resembles the jungle; on a safari truck. For an even more immersive experience, the zoo also made available wildlife retreats for an unforgettable night in the zoo.
Operating Hours: Daily, 9:30am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Adult – AU$49 | Child – AU$29
21. The Grounds of Alexandria
One of the top Instagram spots within the city, The Grounds of Alexandria is an enchanting place located at Huntley Street. What was formerly an industrial warehouse has now been transformed into a rustic, gorgeous must-visit cafe that should be in everyone’s itinerary. This place can get pretty crowded as it whips up delicious meals and special coffee concoctions. There is plenty of room at the al-fresco dining area and an even more picturesque background for those Instagram pictures.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday, 7:00am – 9:00pm | Friday – Sunday, 7:30am – 9:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
22. The Rocks Market
Exploring through The Rocks, you will soon discover the hidden and artistic side of Sydney. Sitting just across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this weekend market is the best place to get a taste of Sydney; be it the people, the fashion or even the food. The trip down here is indeed a treat as one gets to browse through a collection of handpicked artisan merchandises that are sold here exclusively.
Operating Hours: Friday, 10:00am – 3:00pm | Saturday – Sunday, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
23. Angel Place Birdcages
Angel Place Birdcages is a hidden gem that is located at the alley of Central Business District. If you can already hear birds chirping this indicates that you are near. This installation of more than 50 birdcages suspended in mid-air pays tribute to the ‘Forgotten Songs’. Besides than just being a pretty Instagram location, this serves to remind us of the bird species that were forced out of this place during the European settlement.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
24. The Strand Arcade
The Strand Arcade is a gorgeous Victorian-style arcade building that is located in Pitt Street. The architecture is stunning and named after one of London’s best shopping street from the 19th century. This place provides a shopping galore with the finest brands and dining experience spreading across 3-storeys. While your busy shopping, do take a minute to appreciate the intricately designed brackets that hold the glass roof and the galleries in place.
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday, 9:00am – 5:30pm | Thursday, 9:00am – 9:00pm | Friday, 9:00am – 5:30pm | Saturday, 9:00am – 4:00pm | Sunday, 11:00am – 4:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
25. The Sydney Tower Eye
The Sydney Tower Eye is the tallest tower in Sydney that stands at 309 metres above the ground. This popular tower is the place to be if you would love to have a bird-eye view of the city’s skyline and its surrounding waters. A mall occupies the base of the tower and offers a Sydney Tower Buffet Restaurant on the same floor of the observation deck. This is a memorable experience with the panoramic view of Sydney revolving around you while you eat.
Operating Hours: Daily, 9:00am – 8:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Adult – AU$29 | Child – AU$20
A place to stimulates all your senses, you are definitely in for a treat when you visit Sydney. This vibrant town has something for the whole family from waterparks, theme parks, zoo and also aquatic discoveries. Don’t forget to also feast on the natural and fresh produce that Australia has to offer as it will be a good memory you will not forget.