Top things to do in Sydney and Beyond

Sydney’s got the golden beaches and the tans to match, a dazzling skyline and trend-setting bars.

You'll never run out of things to do in Sydney, but don’t forget to set some time out to explore the wonders of New South Wales. From lush national parks to charming coastal towns, there’s so much to discover beyond the city limits. Take a detour and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding regions—you won’t regret it!

Here is our guide crafted by our Sydney specialists for top things to do in Sydney & beyond, featuring must-see spots, hidden gems, local hot tips and best things to do when in Sydney.

1. Go alfresco

Discover a mecca of world-class dining only four minutes from Wynyard Station.

Barangaroo is the city’s latest waterfront landmark. Tickling the harbour and bulging at the seams with new dining venues, this one will knock you for six. From dedicated dessert bars to a tea bar called The Rabbit Hole, there’s a hangout to please every taste bud. Drop in for a juice, order your third flat white of the day, swing by for sushi or sunset cocktails at the rooftop bar, Untied. Feeling French? Saisons has the tartare to satisfy. Need a natural pick-me-up? Chi by Lotus’s plant based options are divine. And of course, this is Sydney, so everything is inherently good looking. Pop on your slickest threads and head on down to Barangaroo, Sydney’s latest (arguably greatest) urban dazzler.

2. Stay for a G&T

Chippendale’s Kensington Street is an entire laneway devoted to food, fine wines & fun. 

Split between four key areas, Spice Alley will keep your taste buds in check with establishments such as Bang Luck Thai and Hong Kong Diner. The Old Rum Store is as chic as it is historic; set in an old urban warehouse and kitted out with various contemporary restaurants. Eastside is home to Gin Palace, where they’ll serve you over 80 different gins in a restored 18th Century terraced house. Then there’s the Westside, home to The Old Clare Hotel and plenty more eateries to entice.  

3. Make every day easy like Sunday morning

The Aussie dream. Think surf, sunshine, Bondi beach and summertime brunch.

Experience authentic Aussie beach culture with a guided walk of Sydney’s eastern suburb sands. Starting at one of the world's most famous beaches, you’ll get to have a yarn with the famed Bondi lifeguards, watch how they ensure the beach goers are safe and learn a thing or two about safety in the chop. The 6km walk hugs the craggy coastline from Bondi to Bronte, past Clovelly and onto Coogee. The views are spectacular for the entire route, enjoying an elevated position with blue skies melting into a blue horizon. Arrive in Clovelly for a quick dip in the cool water, closely followed by an extra-large ice-cream.

4. Embrace the latest urban trends

No city ups the ante with more enthusiasm than Sydney.

Bobbie’s in Double Bay brings together top bar talent, live music and a luxe seafood-centric menu. Whether it’s a martini and oysters in the afternoon, a nightcap and cheese platter, or a night out with cocktails and live music, this is a place to enjoy day and night. There’s also The Bondi Beach Public Bar, in ever-trendy Bondi. A nostalgic little haunt which serves food and drinks akin to Australian pubs in the ‘70s and ‘80s, whether it is for a casual beer Thursday or non-stop cocktails on Saturday these guys have you covered.

5. Hit the gas and head for the coast

Escape the hustle of a city as happening as Sydney with a coastal roadie.

The Grand Pacific Drive is one of the best short drives from Sydney. Venture from the city burbs to the town of Kiama, roughly 120km south, and you’ll discover one of Australia’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. From the Sea Cliff Bridge - and at 665m, a stunning feat of engineering - to charming seaside villages such as Clifton, stop in Wollongong for fish and chips, before a quick walk at Wollongong Foreshore. Then join the road again, heading towards Shellharbour Village for bijou shops and small boutiques. Killalea State Park ‘The Farm’ is a surfing reserve and in Kiama, you’ll find the world’s largest blowhole, and if you stay until sundown, beautiful rock shelves bathed in an orange glow.

7. Spend two days sipping Semillon in the Hunter Valley

Australia’s oldest wine region is home to an entire picnic basket of gourmet treats.

A gorge-fest of restaurants, boutique beer, chocolate, cheese and olives, not ignoring the award-winning Sémillon wine, The Hunter Valley is just 3.5 hours north of Sydney and a hugely popular weekender for city dwellers. Ask your House of Travel consultant about joining a tour to experience the Hunter Valley with an expert, or hire a car and meander up the coast.  Enjoy unique experiences at award winning cellar doors, dining at some of Australia’s best restaurants, hot air balloon rides, horse riding and hiking in national parks. The Hunter Valley also has a calendar packed with lively events and music festivals.

Ready to explore the vibrant charm of Sydney? From the iconic Opera House to stunning beaches and bustling city streets, connect with one of our Sydney specialists today to start planning your unforgettable Sydney adventure!