As the largest city in Australia, Sydney boasts plenty to see and do for tourists. Renowned throughout the world for its stunning harbour and iconic landmarks, Sydney’s attractions are an almost endless collection of natural beauty and urban bustle. Regardless of what you are after, you’ll find plenty to see, do and eat during your stay. Enjoy Sydney’s charm and culture with our selection of 2024’s best tourist attractions in Sydney.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, with the opportunity to climb to its peak. You’ll be guided safely to its summit to soak in the panoramic views of the city and its surrounding areas, looking east to the Pacific Ocean and west to the Blue Mountains. A Sydney Harbour Bridge climb gives you a unique perspective of the CBD and Sydney Harbour, plus an adrenaline rush as you climb to the top.
Similarly high on the list of iconic tourist attractions in Sydney is Bondi Beach, a place famed for its golden sand, excellent surf conditions and vibrant cultural atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for many tourists, boasting plenty of eateries and shops along the foreshore. Kick back on the sands, or head off on the iconic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk to experience spectacular ocean views, rock pools and more stunning beaches.
No list of Sydney’s tourist attractions would be complete without the Sydney Opera House. While it boasts a stunning appearance, the Opera House’s real treats are hidden inside. Catch any of the wonderful performances set inside this purpose built venue and you will quickly see why it has earned its reputation. As a bonus, the Opera House’s steps and forecourt offer a great photo opportunity before or after your show, with panoramic views of Circular Quay, the harbour and the city’s north-east.
Ferries have been cruising Sydney Harbour for well over a century, providing a convenient transport link between the CBD and Manly. Once in Manly, you’ll experience a relaxed vibe with an iconic beach and numerous coastal walks. While you’re in Manly, it’s the perfect place to try surfing, snorkelling and sunbathing, or to visit the numerous shops and eateries dotted along the Corso.
Nestled in a prime spot between the shores of Sydney Harbour and the city centre, the Royal Botanic Garden offers themed gardens, exotic plants and majestic views. Take a guided tour of the garden to learn more about the exotic plant life found in Sydney and its surrounds, or simply take a stroll through the garden to temporarily escape the bustle of the CBD.
Taronga Zoo is another of Sydney’s tourist attractions that has gained global attention. Enjoy close encounters with over 4000 animals from around the world while taking in views of Sydney Harbour. When you arrive at Taronga, you’ll experience its unique cable car entry, before being entertained and informed by its displays and tours. Taronga offers something for everyone, regardless of your interests.
The Rocks is a historical precinct that gives tourists a glimpse into Sydney’s colonial history. Its laneways lead to preserved buildings, vintage pubs and modern cafes. If you visit at the weekend, you’ll also catch the Rocks Markets, which bring together some of Sydney’s most talented craftsmen and artisans. The Rocks Markets allows you to enjoy everything from gourmet food to jewellery and even fashion, all in one historic location.
The Blue Mountains are located just over an hour from Sydney and boast scenery worthy of their World Heritage site classification. Dramatic cliffs, wondrous rock formations, raging waterfalls and jaw-dropping caves are some of the highlights you’ll experience in the Blue Mountains. Destinations like the Three Sisters can be accessed regardless of your fitness level, but more demanding walks allow you to discover the Blue Mountains’ hidden gems.
To get to the Blue Mountains, consider hiring a car from Europcar. Book with Metro Hotels and save up to 15%.
Just a short walk from Circular Quay lies the Museum of Contemporary Art. It showcases a range of modern Australian and international artworks, which are under constant rotation. Whenever you visit, you’re sure to experience an awe-inspiring collection of art. Before leaving the Museum, it’s worth taking a look around on its rooftop cafe to enjoy a drink or a meal with views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
While there are a huge number of tourist attractions in Sydney, downtime is also important. At Metro Hotels, we offer well-equipped hotels in locations like Darling Harbour, Haymarket, King Street, Ultimo, and Martin Place (coming soon), which are perfect for those wanting to indulge in the most central of Sydney’s tourist attractions. We also have locations in Sydney’s southern and northern suburbs for those wanting to explore the city’s outskirts.
The Sydney Tower Eye stands 250 metres above Sydney’s streets, offering visitors panoramic views of the city and Sydney Harbour. From the Tower Eye, you’ll be able to see Sydney’s layout and cityscape, plus a collection of its natural landmarks. The observation deck and 4D cinema reveal insights about Sydney’s history, along with the construction of its most famous attractions.
Barangaroo is a newly constructed waterfront precinct that combines landscaped parklands, cultural events and a multitude of dining options. There are a number of walking and cycling paths, each with stunning views of Sydney Harbour. Barangaroo Reserve is a thriving public space, which is Sydney’s latest showcase of urban architecture and cosmopolitan culture.
Darling Harbour is one of Sydney’s most established waterfront precincts, playing home to themed attractions such as the Australian National Maritime Museum, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. For those not aquatically inclined, there are a number of other things to see and do in Darling Harbour, with plenty of dining and shopping options, plus an iMax cinema. Our Metro Aspire Hotel Sydney and Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour locations offer packages with discount entry to local attractions.
Sydney’s Chinatown is a vibrant fusion of Asian cultures, boasting restaurants, noodle bars and shopping outlets all with a Chinese theme. The area is always a bustling hive of activity, but is especially colourful during cultural festivities such as Chinese New Year. Nearby to Chinatown, you’ll find Paddy’s Market, selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and clothing.
The Art Gallery of New South Wales is a prestige gallery showcasing a variety of Australian, European, Asian and contemporary art. The gallery also includes a collection of works from Indigenous Australian artists. The entry fee covers access to a wide range of exhibits, making for a rounded cultural experience. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is a 15-minute walk from the city centre, near the Royal Botanic Garden.
Sydney’s mix of natural beauty, culture and urban life make it the ideal destination for all tastes. Enjoy a world class city that celebrates both the natural wonders of the world together with its own history and the latest in urban architecture.Â
When visiting the city, you need a hotel right on the doorstep of Sydney’s top attractions. Metro Hotels offers four well-equipped hotels located within close proximity to many of Sydney’s attractions. Check out our hot deals page for special offers on our range of hotels in Sydney’s CBD.
