Sydney, NSW

other

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Want a view of the Sydney Harbour and Sydney Opera House from the top, but don't want to fork out $300+ for a bridge climb? Opt for the walk along the Sydney Harbour Bridge instead and it is totally free! There is a pedestrian walkway on the eastern side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge that links between The Rocks and Kirribilli, it offers some of the best views of Sydney Harbour.

Sydney, NSW

other

Mrs Macquarie's Chair

I have seen many beautiful places in the world, but the view of the iconic Sydney Opera House against the Harbour Bridge has to be one of my favourites. The Sydney Royal Botanical Garden is conveniently located close to Circular Quay and Sydney CBD, go for a wander and aim to stop at Mrs Macquarie's Chair at sunset for the most beautiful sight you will ever see. It is also a fantastic spot to see the NYE fireworks, but be there early!

Coogee, NSW

outdoors

Bondi to Coogee walk

Sydney is known for beautiful beaches and coastlines, and you can often find great walks around to fully enjoy the experience. One of the most popular walks has to be the Coogee to Bondi cliff top walk, it extends for about 6km and takes you pass many amazing beaches, parks and rock pools. Make sure you bring a towel, water, sunscreen and some comfy shoes.

NSW, Australia

other

Cockatoo Island

Just a short ferry ride from Circular Quay you will arrive at Cockatoo Island - the largest island in Sydney Harbour with a colourful history from its use as a prison and a reformatory school for girls and naval training school for boys to its principal use as a naval shipbuilding and repairs dock. Many of the old structures are still kept on the Island and luckily for us in 2007 the island was declared open to the public, since then it’s become a regular venue for cultural festivals such as the Biennale (international festival of contemporary art).

Chicago, IL

other

Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago

Sydney has a great selection of galleries and museums that cater to everyone and every age, many of them have a general session that's free to public. One of the best galleries/museums is the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay, it is Australia's leading museum dedicated to exhibiting, interpreting and collecting contemporary art from across Australia and around the world. It also has a MCA Store where you can find unique gifts, and a MCA Café featuring modern Australian cuisine with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. Other great art galleries you should also check out are Art Gallery of NSW, White Rabbit Gallery and State Library of NSW (cool old library and sometimes it has special exhibitions).

NSW, Australia

outdoors

Blue Mountains

One of the greatest things about living in Sydney is that the nature is never too far away. About 2 hours drive or train ride away you will find yourself surrounded by serenity, lush eucalyptus trees and natural waterfalls. The Blue Mountains, home to the famous Three Sisters rocks, offers some of the most dazzling and dramatic views over the deep valleys that were formed over millions of year ago. Check out the different walk options, relax by one of several waterfalls, and visit the towns nearby.

Glebe, NSW

other

Glebe Markets

Who doesn't love a good bargain? The best way to seek out affordable and unique items is to go to one of the many weekend markets across Sydney. Many of them have a mix of second hand items, hand crafted products and fresh produce. Glebe Markets is one of the more popular markets showcasing a great selection of fashion items and incredible food.

La Perouse, NSW

outdoors

Congwong Beach

If you are visiting Sydney in Summer, you can't leave the city without going for a dip in the many beautiful beaches Australia is renowned for. Bondi is great, but really, Sydney has more than 100 beaches, go for somewhere different and less crowded. My pick is the Congwong Beach at La Perouse. You can access the beach by bus from the city. It is a calm beach that looks out to Botany Bay, giving you the illusion that you are at a secluded area. You can also walk out to the historic Bare Island which is a fantastic spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. Continue walking down the coast from Congwong Beach is a nudist beach calls Little Congwong Beach, if that's more your scene.