Whether you’re an international student, a Sydney local, or in town for a business trip, there are so many impressive sights throughout Sydney that are worth taking a moment away from all the action to enjoy.
We’ve compiled this list of the 10 most impressive, must-see sights in the city so you can keep your eye out for these incredible tourist attractions catching hearts across the world.
1. Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is considered the eighth wonder of the world, among other such monuments as the Great Pyramid and the Taj Mahal, due to its universal value in structural engineering and also as an icon.
But it’s more than just a piece of architectural magnificence, it’s also a world-class working opera house. It hosts almost 2,000 performances each year, from classical ballet, symphony music all the way to stunning operas and it’s become a magnet for culture-lovers and tourists alike.
Even if you’re just passing by, it’s worth taking a moment to pause, take in this incredible monument, and snap a pic or two. But you can also take advantage of the tours and experiences on offer – there’s heaps to experience, even a free guided walking and drawing tour – or check out what live events are currently on to put you in the heart of this impressive location.
2. Sydney Harbour Bridge
Much like the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the world’s most recognised landmarks. It’s actually the largest steel arch bridge on the planet and locals and tourists love testing their endurance on the popular Bridge Climb. It spans across one of the globe’s finest natural harbours, making for stunning views, and is an intrinsic part of the city.
Whether you challenge yourself with a climb, ride your bike through, or just enjoy the scene it creates across the cityscape, it’s definitely worth taking a moment to appreciate this must-see sight in Sydney!
3. Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is another classic Sydney icon – one of the most iconic beaches in all of Australia, in fact. It offers gorgeous reliable waves, trendy eateries and an overall laid-back beach lifestyle, perfect for locals and tourists alike.
It’s easy to enjoy this one while lounging in a cafe across the road, but if you can make the time to walk this white-sand beach, you won’t regret it. Though the best time to enjoy this sight is in summer, it’s still a stunning sight on a cold winter’s night if you get a chance to stroll past.
There are also a number of events and festivals that take place: check out what’s currently on here.
4. Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney is a heritage listed 30-hectare botanical garden filled to the brim with fascinating plants and people. It hosts a myriad of events and aims to help individuals learn more about science, gardens, plants and horticulture. Wrapping around the harbour and adjacent to the Sydney Opera House, it’s in a prime location for a quick stroll or a picnic in the park.
5. The Art Gallery of NSW
The Art Gallery of New South Wales was founded in 1872 and is the most important public gallery in Sydney and one of the largest across Australia. It features over 40 exhibitions annually, meaning there’s always something new to discover here. It’s located within walking distance from the city and admissions and guided tours are absolutely free to enjoy.
It’s a great place to stop for a coffee at the on-site restaurant or stroll through on a quiet afternoon. But you can also visit on a Wednesday evening for Art After Hours celebrity talks, music, performances and more. It really is the perfect dose of culture for your stay in Sydney.
6. The Rocks
The Rocks is considered the birthplace of modern Sydney. It’s a neighbourhood of historic laneways in the shadow of Sydney Harbour Bridge, where convicts first set up with the arrival of European settlers in 1788.
Now, it’s a great way to discover the rich colonial history in Sydney, with locals and tourists alike mingling at the open-air Rocks Markets, taking a break in some of the oldest pubs in Sydney and enjoying the museums and galleries nestled among this neighbourhood.
It’s worth taking a moment to stroll through these cobbled streets and laneways to help you get a feel for what Sydney was, before it became this booming hub.
7. Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art, otherwise known as MCA, is Australia’s leading museum. With over 4k works by homegrown artists – with a strong emphasis on works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders – and a continually changing range of exhibitions, it’s dedicated to exhibiting, interpreting and collecting contemporary art of all styles.
You can check it out with a free guided tour, but it’s also worth stopping past the MCA Cafe and Sculpture Terrace to enjoy incredible views of the Sydney Harbour. Its contemporary atmosphere and seasonable, sustainable menu make for a perfect day out.
8. Sydney Tower Eye
This one is a little hard to miss! The Sydney Tower Eye is 309 metres tall and takes you to the highest point of Sydney for breathtaking 360 degree views. It’s actually the second-tallest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere, making it a must-see sight for all.
You can stop by for a look from the observation deck, a quick drink at Bar 83 or, if you’re looking for a rewarding thrill, they also offer a Skywalk.
9. Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo might not be a historical monument, but it’s well-worth a visit if you’re in Sydney. This award-winning zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, both natives and rare, endangered exotic animals. It’s open every single day of the year and is located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, making it all-too-easy to plan a weekend adventure to this animal oasis.
10. Chinatown
We know: everyone has a Chinatown, so what makes this one so special? This one is bigger, better, and boasts more than the usual thanks to a wealth of Chinese immigrants setting up base here since the 1800s. There are Asian grocers, noodle bars, lively markets and late-night karaoke to spark your interest. And considering this Chinatown is on another level to what you might be used to? It’s a must-see!
Sydney hosts a number of incredible sights, sounds and experiences, and these 10 are just touching the surface on all that there is to see in Sydney. There are so many impressive sights to see that are worth taking a moment away from all the action to enjoy and we recommend keeping your eye out for which ones you can find!
If you’re looking for long term or short term accommodation in Sydney? Contact Sydney Student Living today to learn more about how we can help make your experience in Sydney an unforgettable one.
