Top 5 Sightseeing things to do in Sydney

Sightseeing things to do in Sydney

Sydney is a city full of many amazing sights and tourist attractions for a memorable hens weekend for those coming from out of town. Checking out the stunning Sydney Harbour should be a top priority for everyone as there is a lot to see and do.

Check out Australian art, history and culture at various museums and galleries. Journey through the streets for entertaining pub crawls and delicious food. Hop on a boat on the harbour to check out Taronga Zoo or journey on the Harbour Bridge for the best views of the city. No matter your interests, we have some fun and enjoyable sightseeing things to do in Sydney on a hens weekend away in.

Here are 5 sightseeing things to do in Sydney and experiences to enjoy in Sydney Harbour or nearby. The best news? Some are absolutely free of charge and will be the most memorable!

1. Climb the Harbour Bridge

Cost: Prices start at $328 for adults and $149 for children.

Top of our sightseeing things to do in Sydney is the famous bridge climb is the only way to experience the iconic views of the harbour of Sydney and the masterpiece that is the Sydney Opera House. It’s not for the faint of heart though, as the journey up is between 2.5 – 3.5 hours depending on the climb you choose. The climb involves prolonged stair climbing on ladders, and at times you walk on uneven surfaces and through narrow passageways. But the challenge of climbing to the top is well worth it!

You will have your photo taken by a professional photographer the experience and the memories really will last a lifetime. Every trip to Sydney Harbour is never complete without a bridge climb with friends or family. It really is something you will remember for many years to come.

2. Opera house to Royal Botanic Gardens Walk

Cost: Free

This is a top choice for those who love the outdoors and nature. Start at the stunning Sydney Opera House and take some photos. The views across the Sydney Harbour Bridge are perfect from this location too. Then take a 15 to 30-minute stroll to the magnificent Royal Botanic Gardens. This beautiful oasis in the city is home to many fascinating species of plants.

You can walk around at your own leisure and even relax for lunch on the grass with a picnic. They even have cafes and restaurants to enjoy too. You can go on a free tour within the gardens, learning about Aboriginal culture and spot a variety of native and exotic birds, mammals, reptiles and spiders who live there. The gardens open at 7 am during all months of the year, but closing times will vary. The best part? Entry is free!

3. Explore The Rocks

Cost: Free

Part of your day exploring The Rocks is one of the best things to do near Sydney Harbour. Not only will you walk through historic laneways but you also get wonderful views of Sydney Harbour from pubs and restaurants in the area. There are markets to check out every weekend from 10am – 5pm with artisan clothing and homeware and gourmet street food.

A walk up the cobblestone laneways to Cumberland street where you will find the Australian Heritage Hotel.  It’s known for its heritage charm and holds the longest-running hotel license in Sydney (since 1914). This pub is a great spot for a local Aussie beer and a meal. Try their seriously delicious and famous emu, crocodile and kangaroo pizzas. Another favourite place for lunch in the rocks is the Glenmore Hotel. This popular watering hole has impressive 180 views of the harbour and is a great place to enjoy with friends.

4. Taronga Zoo

Cost: Online price Adults: $45.90 day ticket Concession: $35.10 Children: $27
Infants (under 4): Free

No trip to Sydney is complete without time spent at the famous Taronga Zoo. Jump on the ferry at Circular Quay and enjoy a short 12-minute cruise across the harbour. It’s open daily from 9.30 – 5pm and you could easily spend a few hours exploring here. This gorgeous zoo is great for all ages and is home to over 5000 animals from over 350 species. Many of these animals are threatened or endangered and wildlife keepers do an amazing job of protecting and caring for them.

There are conservation management plans in place for species such as the Sumatran Tiger and Asian Elephants. Some highlights of a trip to Taronga Zoo is the giraffe feeding, where you can see them enjoying a carrot or two. A journey on the Sky Safari offers you a birds-eye view of many of the animals and the views of Sydney Harbour are breathtaking. For a more up close and personal experience you can book an animal encounter. Try the unforgettable Koala encounter – venture into their exhibit with a zookeeper for a private talk to learn more.

5. Sydney Jet

Cost: Children $49 Adults $89 Family (2A + 2C) $229

Last on our list of sightseeing things to do in Sydney, is Sydney Jet is a fun thrill ride on a powerful and fast-moving boat. It’s a great option for those who seek an adrenaline rush and really take sight-seeing to the extreme. The 30-minute ride departs from Circular Quay and takes you on a massive hot lap of Sydney Harbour. On the ride, the experienced driver will take you under the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, past the famous Opera House and then you will fishtail all the way to the beautiful Watsons Bay.

Expect lots of radical spins and sweeping slides at insanely high speeds. Lucky you’re wearing waterproof overalls to take the brunt of all that water! You head back to where you started via Bradley’s Head, Kirribilli and Luna Park which is a great way to see the renowned sights of Sydney Harbour. To capture the moment each jet boat has high-tech cameras on board which takes still images and videos of all the fun. These can be purchased for an extra cost at the end of the ride and make for a wonderful souvenir.