Renowned for its picturesque beauty, outdoor lifestyle, cultural icons and multi-cultural communities, it’s little wonder there is so much to do and see here in Sydney. Whether it’s sight-seeing in tourist mode or living like a local, there is always something to enjoy.  We share our favourite things to do in our city, from strolling along beautiful coastal walks to visiting artisan markets. 

Walks

Source: bondi38

The 2.5km Bondi to Bronte coastal walk takes in some iconic landmarks including Bondi Icebergs, Mackenzies Point, Mackenzies Bay and Tamarama Beach.  Although it can be completed in an hour, this gorgeous stroll can easily take longer if stopping along the way to admire the views or take a few snaps like we always do.

Source: Uncoil

Another of our favourite walks is the 10km Spit Bridge to Manly walk along the Northern Beaches.  A more vigorous 3-4 hour undertaking, stop off at Clontarf Reserve to grab a coffee, the Grotto Aboriginal Engraving site to see carvings believed to be over 1,000 years old, Dobroyd Head – the best lookout spot along the way and Fairlight Beach with its teaming rockpool.

Sydney Ferries 

Source: Concrete Playground

With life centred around its waterside foundations, a very Sydney-centric thing we love to do with visitors is catch a ferry from different spots across the harbour.   Daily ferry services now operate from multiple stops along the harbour offering locals and visitors alike the opportunity to take in spectacular views during the everyday commute.  Our favourite trip includes travelling from Watsons Bay to Manly admiring the stunning coastal cliffs along the north and south heads that open to the Pacific Ocean. 

Markets

Source: Carriageworks

Restrictions permitting, Sydney is host to many different markets all around the city.  The Paddington Markets on Saturday and Bondi Markets on Sunday are a fashion-lovers paradise with big labels including Dinosaur Designs, Zimmermann and Sass & Bide all making a start here.  The Glebe Markets with over 200 stalls offers food, music and a cool, alternative atmosphere every Saturday, with the Rozelle Collectors Market the place to pick up a second-hand antique or vintage piece on either day of the weekend.

The Carriageworks Farmers Market is curated by acclaimed chef, Mick McEnearney and operates every Saturday in Redfern.  Chat with a grower, sample some goodies or learn from visiting chefs, this is the place to stock up on organic and bio-dynamic produce, artisan breads, freshly-harvested veggies and boutique wines and coffees. 
 

Eat & Drink

Source: Bills

There is no shortage of culinary experiences in Sydney.  The iconic bills can be found in Darlinghurst, Double Bay, Surry Hills and Bondi and is famous for its breakfast offerings.  Serving Sydney on a plate – simple, delicious meals are founded on the relaxed, laid-back Australian style… ‘sunny, easy-going and generous’. 

Source: Cafe Sydney

Another one of our favourite spots is Café Sydney located on the rooftop of Customs House in Circular Quay, overlooking the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.  The breathtaking harbour views are matched only by the amazing food that features local produce including Pacific Oysters and Morton Bay Bugs – the perfect spot for lunch or dinner.

Source: Delicious

Paski Vineria Popolare is one of our favourite wine bars and restaurants, featuring an impressive wine list with around 450 wines from small-scale producers that you can take home to enjoy.  Our favourite items on the menu are the dozen meats and cheeses from Australia, Italy and France, as well as their bite-size dishes including the fritti of tapioca and asiago.

Sunset at Dudley Page Reserve

Source: International Women Connected

This hidden gem is located on the corner of Military Road and Lancaster Road in Dover Heights, not far from our favourite Bondi Beach.  It features a gorgeous view overlooking Sydney Harbour and is the perfect place to sit and watch the sunset.  A true local spot. 

Lawn Bowls at Clovelly Bowling Club

Source: Barefoot Bowls Clovelly

Just around the corner from Bondi and Bronte is the Clovelly Bowling Club, a relaxed spot to enjoy a BBQ with friends before a game of lawn bowls.  Open to everyone from beginners to professionals alike, it’s the spot to enjoy a cold drink while overlooking the magnificent views across the Pacific Ocean.  The view is so beautiful that some people even choose it as their wedding venue. 

Picnic at Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Source: Conde Nast Traveler

Established in 1816, The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney encompasses over 30 hectares and showcases more than 27,000 plants from around the world.  With stunning views that stretch across to the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, it’s the ideal spot to bring a picnic or host a garden party with friends.