Beyond the Opera House: 10 Daytrip Sydney Sights You Can't miss
WRITTEN BY Through Our Lens onFirst Stop: Sydney Harbor Bridge & a Secret Lookout
You're about to walk on the Sydney Harbor Bridge, affectionately known as "The Coathanger." As you ascend the grand stairs, the bridge unfolds in full glory. Remember, walkers on the left, cyclists on the right—it's the unwritten rule of the bridge!
Among the bridge's four majestic granite pylons, there's a hidden gem on the rear left Pylon (when facing the city). For a mere $20, adults can ascend this Pylon to a lookout tour and museum. The views? Let's just say they're postcard-perfect, giving the pricier Bridge Climb a run for its money.
Peek over the edge, and you might catch sight of the Navy ships at Garden Island, the lookout of Mrs Macquarie's Chair, and the star of the show the Sydney Opera House.
The Rocks - A Slice of Sydney's Colorful Past
After descending from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, you'll find yourself in The Rocks, Sydney's birthplace and one of the city's most historic precincts. This compact neighborhood offers a delightful step back in time with its meticulously preserved colonial buildings, cozy pubs, and winding cobblestone laneways.
(Photo Taken From Cahill Express)
As you wander along the Rocks' car-free streets like Nurses Walk and Kendall Lane, you'll be transported to the early 19th century when this area housed a bustling maritime village and industrial hub. Stop by the Rocks Discovery Museum (built 1844) to glimpse into the area's rich history.
If your visit coincides with the weekend, don't miss the chance to peruse the vibrant Rocks Markets near Jack Mundey Place. These markets feature over 200 colorful stalls brimming with handmade arts and crafts, gourmet street food, and locally-designed fashion.
Art enthusiasts will also want to pay a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art just up the road, with its cutting-edge exhibits housed in a striking art-deco building along the waterfront.
Star Attraction: The Opera House & Botanic Gardens
Don't let the cheeky seagulls or the quirky Australian White Ibis distract you as you stroll towards Circular Quay. Your target? The Sydney Opera House. Yes, it's everything tourists dream of and more. But here's a pro tip: turn right at the Opera House, and you'll find yourself at the gates of the Royal Botanic Gardens. Walking just by the water side of the gardens will give you some Instagram-worthy angles of the famous building.
Ferry Ride to Barangaroo
After soaking in the beauty of the Opera House and Botanic Gardens, head to Wharf 5 at Circular Quay. Here, you can hop on one of the iconic Sydney ferries that depart every 20 minutes for Barangaroo. As you cruise across the harbor, take in the stunning views of the city skyline and the Harbor Bridge from a unique perspective. Traveling by ferry is one of the quintessential Sydney experiences that make this city truly unique.
This vibrant harborside area offers a great option for refueling with lunch or an early dinner at one of the many waterfront eateries lining Wulugul Walk like 12-Micron, Bel & Brio, or Barangaroo House.
If you have extra time, Barangaroo also provides some entertaining detours like the underwater exhibits at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, interactive displays at the Australian National Maritime Museum, or catching the latest flick at the harbourfront IMAX theater.
Heading Back Through the City
Once you've had your fill of Barangaroo, walk off your meal by heading inland to the city center. Make your way up Druitt Street, where you'll arrive at the magnificent Queen Victoria Building (QVB). Duck inside this glamorous 19th-century arcade to browse its upscale shops and gaze up at the intricate stained glass windows adorning the main dome.
Finally, continue on a few more blocks to arrive at Sydney Town Hall, an impressive masterpiece of English Renaissance architecture and civic landmark. Grab a photo in front of its Corinthian columns before ending your Sydney day trip here in the heart of the CBD.
