17 Iconic Sydney Attractions Everyone Must See At Least Once

Some of the most magnificent landmarks on Earth arrive as must-see Sydney attractions.

The sails, the Coat Hanger, the shimmering harbour — it all comes together to create one of the world’s most recognisable scenes. Sure, Sydney offers much more than its tourist traps, such as impeccable dining experiences, hard-to-find yet achingly hip bars, breathtaking coastal walks and dreamy day spas to unwind in, but the most iconic Sydney attractions are must-experiences at least once in your lifetime. We’ve narrowed down the best of the best to create your ultimate Sydney bucket list.

1. BridgeClimb Sydney

Don’t let the mandatory onesie deter you. Grabbing a shot of oneself, arms outstretched, atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a cherished moment for every visitor. BridgeClimb Sydney facilitates the adventure, offering a series of experiences.

a family enjoying BridgeClimb, Sydney — Conquer the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Sydney Harbour Bridge climb has attracted familiar faces over the years including Prince Harry, Oprah Winfrey, Jamie Oliver and Kylie Minogue, perched 134 metres above the harbour to marvel in the city’s beauty. Choose from 2.5-hour to 3.5-hour small group tours or if you’re keen on getting up there alone, or with a special somebody, go for a private experience complete with post-climb dining options.

the BridgeClimb Sydneyexperience overlooking Sydney Harbour — Marvel at the breathtaking harbour views from above. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Sydney Opera House Tour

Arguably the most famous of all Sydney attractions, the Sydney Opera House is captivating from every angle – including inside. There’s a range of Sydney Opera House tours and experiences that take you behind the scenes of whatever you’re into.

an aerial view of the SydneyOpera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge — Take in the iconic views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. (Image: Destination NSW)

In awe of the sheer craftsmanship? The Architectural Tour is a great pick. Fascinated by the arts? The Backstage Tour has your name on it. The in-depth experiences shed a whole new light on the attraction’s brilliance, providing a newfound appreciation for one of the world’s most unique structures.

3. Sydney Harbour Cruise

It’s beautiful to gawk at but getting out on the glistening harbour is one of the most enchanting Sydney attractions you’ll ever experience. Soothing waters are surrounded by standout structures including big guys like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Kirribilli House and Taronga Zoo as well as palatial properties and dramatic headlands.

Sydney Harbour Boat Tours with city skyline views, Sydney Harbour — Hop on a Sydney boat tour. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are a bunch of reputable operators offering delightful full-day or half-day Sydney cruises as well as lunch and dinner experiences. Investigate Captain Cook Cruises , Magistic Cruises and Sydney Harbour Boat Tours .

a close-up shot of Sydney Harbour Boat Tours, Sydney Harbour — Cruise past the iconic Sydney Opera House. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Raging Waters Sydney

The former Wet’n’Wild Sydney is alive and kicking as Raging Waters Sydney , the city’s biggest water-based amusement park. Retaining the former park’s drawcards including its signature wave pool, Sydney’s ultimate 62-acre sunshine-friendly fun zone features more than 40 slides and attractions as well as a dedicated area for bubs.

people enjoying the huge water slide at Raging Waters, Sydney — Tackle the waterslides at Raging Waters Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW)

Some of the tallest and fastest water rides in the world can be found inside this Sydney attraction, making it worthy of a bucket list destination for adventure-seekers of all ages.

friends and family enjoying the rides at Raging Waters Sydney, Prospect — It’s a guaranteed good time. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Luna Park Sydney

While we’re on the hunt for heart-racing fun, add Luna Park Sydney to your must-visit list. Its giant beaming face on the northern side of the harbour was constructed in 1935, just three years after the Sydney Harbour Bridge opened to traffic, so it’s deeply embedded in the city’s history.

the Luna Park Ferris wheel at night — The Luna Park Ferris Wheel lights up the harbour at night. (Image: Destination NSW)

Additionally, some of the buildings within this Sydney attraction are so cherished that they’re officially protected by the National Trust. What also makes this place unique is while you’ve got to pay for the rides, park entry to Luna Park Sydney is free so you can soak up its magic on a shoestring.

a family walking into Luna Park Sydney, Milsons Point — It’s the perfect day out with your family. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Sydney Tower Eye

Those afraid of heights will have to muster some courage for this one. The Sydney Tower Eye registers as the southern hemisphere’s second-tallest observation tower, making it one of the most extraordinary Sydney attractions. Jump into one of its lightning-fast elevator rides to the Observation Deck, positioned 250 metres above ground, to spy soaring views of the entire city and beyond.

a family enjoying the Sydney Sky Tower Skywalk at sunset — Make it to the top of the second-tallest observation tower in the southern hemisphere for sunrise. (Image: Destination NSW)

Feeling extra brave? Grab a ticket to SKYWALK, a 60-minute outdoor guided walk off the top of the building. The more timid can also indulge at Infinity, serving a la carte and tasting menus, and Bar 83, built with floor-to-ceiling windows.

two people posing at Sydney Sky Tower Skywalk at sunset — Get 360-degree views of the entire city. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. The Sydney Ferry

Could there be a more scenic public transport network? The Sydney Ferry system operates throughout Sydney Harbour and Parramatta River, transporting visitors right across the city. It’s a budget-conscious way to soak up some of the city’s most beautiful vistas as 38 wharves are open.

the Friendship Ferry passing under Sydney Harbour Bridge — Pass beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge onboard The Sydney Ferry. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sniff out Freshwater, travelling the Manly ferry service, to experience the fleet’s oldest continually serving vessel. The more modern RiverCat, HarbourCat and SuperCat varieties also offer memorable modes of transportation across Sydney’s iconic waterways.

the views of The Sydney Ferry across the harbour bridge — The Sydney Ferry zips its way around Sydney’s iconic waterways. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Bondi Beach

It’s the beach so famous it demands its own reality TV show. Bondi Beach is one of the most iconic Sydney attractions, luring visitors from around the globe to its golden sand and aqua blue surf.

an aerial view of the scenic Bondi coastline — Take in dreamy coastal views at Bondi Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

There’s plenty to explore along the stretch, from the Instagram-friendly Bondi Icebergs Pool at the southern end and cultural centre of Bondi Pavilion, to all the boutiques, bars and eateries scattered within the suburb’s bustling streets and the cafe culture of the northern end. No matter where you cruise to, Bondi Beach’s hypnotising waters play the dreamiest of backdrops.

surfing in Bondi Beach — Surf and play at Bondi Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. Eat Street in Parramatta

The thriving commercial capital of Sydney’s west is home to Church Street, otherwise known at Eat Street , and some of the most delectable international dishes found in the city. Choose from Greek souvlakis, Italian carbs, Vietnamese Pho, Chinese noodles, ribs, tapas, burgers, waffles and more as you tour this Sydney attraction during the day and long into the night.

friends enjoying pizza at Mama and Papas along Eat Street, Parramatta — Bond over pizza at Mama and Papas on Eat Street, Parramatta. (Image: Destination NSW)

Art installations and plenty of al fresco dining make for atmospheric feasting conditions no matter your cravings. (Hot tip: Skye Suites Parramatta is an excellent place to bed down while in town)

people dining at Bay Vista restaurant, Eat Street, Parramatta — There are plenty of dining options, including the Bay Vista restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

10. The Rocks Market

Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 5pm, George and Playfair Streets in The Rocks come alive with The Rocks Market . Selling everything under the sun since it first launched more than 30 years ago, the Sydney attraction offers stall after stall of food, artworks, clothing, homewares, jewellery and more.

Split up via category, it serves as streamlined retail therapy as live music and entertainment bring further good vibes. It’s undoubtedly one of Sydney’s best markets but also a longstanding domestic standout.

The Rocks Markets during Australia Day 2016 — Score a handmade treasure from the stalls at The Rocks Market. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Barangaroo Reserve

Acknowledging Aboriginal culture and Australia’s First Nations people, Barangaroo Reserve is a relatively new must-experience compared to the other Sydney attractions on this list. Launching as public parkland in 2015, the six-hectare space features 75,000 native plants and offers cultural tours to educate visitors on how sacred the land really is.

the Nawi Cove, Barangaroo Reserve — Nawi Cove is surrounded by ancient sandstone. (Image: Destination NSW)

Pack a picnic or just wander around the grounds as views of Sydney Harbour elevate the destination to dazzling heights. A network of cycling and walking trails also provide picture-perfect activity for the extra active.

a couple walking along Barangaroo Reserve — Take in dazzling views of the harbour as you stroll around Barangaroo Reserve. (Image: Destination NSW)

12. Manly

Bondi isn’t the only iconic Sydney beach suburb. The city’s surf culture thrives in the northern beaches, led by Manly, a Sydney attraction that attracts thick crowds daily. And if the sun’s out, visitors swarm Manly Beach as well as its neighbouring gems including Shelly Beach, Fairlight Beach and Little Manly Beach.

Capture a magical sunrise over Queenscliff and Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

Once you’re done lying horizontally, hit the energetic mecca of bars, cafes and restaurants that line the streets between Manly Wharf and Manly Beach, plus trendy boutiques selling one-of-a-kind designs and treasures.

a couple spending the day at Fairy Bower Pool, Manly — Relax by the water at Fairy Bower Pool, Manly. (Image: Destination NSW)

13. South Head

The scale and sheer beauty of the Tasman Sea and Sydney Harbour are perfectly encapsulated at South Head located in Watsons Bay in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

the Hornby Lighthouse at South Head, Watsons Bay, Sydney Harbour National Park — The Hornby Lighthouse is perched on a cliff at South Head, Watsons Bay. (Image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW)

Home to extraordinary natural wonders including giant cliffs, historical relics, blue-on-blue vistas, essential fish and chips and the odd bout of whale watching if you time your whale-watching visit right, South Head is a marvel in every sense. The red and white striped Hornby Lighthouse , the third lighthouse ever built in NSW, is a non-negotiable selfie stop.

an aerial view of South Head, Watsons Bay, Sydney Harbour National Park — South Head features one of the finest coastal walks in Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW)

14. Cockatoo Island

Stepped in history, Cockatoo Island housed convicts in the 1800s but before then, it was a meeting place for First Nations people. Since the early days, it’s been used as a shipbuilding and repair facility, educational facility for children and more.

the Cockatoo Island, Sydney by day — Explore the historical landmarks at Cockatoo Island. (Image: Destination NSW)

One of the most enriching Sydney attractions to add to your itinerary, the island is now filled with artefacts for visitors to explore as well as a distinct aura that floods you the moment you step onto the land. It’s almost as though its haunted by the fascinating characters of its past. Guided and self-guided tours help to decode its magic.

the view of the Sydney skyline at night as seen from Cockatoo Island, Sydney — Cockatoo Island looks magical at night. (Image: Destination NSW)

15. The Strand Arcade

Luring the most fashionable from as far back as 1892 when it first opened its doors, The Strand Arcade is a beautiful shopping complex in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. The Victorian-style arcade helped cement Sydney as a retail destination and is now heritage-listed. Its original shopfronts are stunningly recreated as exact replicas.

Boutique stores inside the Strand Arcade — You’ll find boutique stores inside the Strand Arcade. (Image: Destination NSW)

As for the stores, expect the finest of indulgences including premium Australian brands like Dinosaur Designs, Rebecca Vallance, Scanlan Theodore, Haigh’s Chocolates and Aesop.

the entrance to Strand Arcade from Pitt Street Arcade, CBD — Marvel at the heritage-listed Strand Arcade. (Image: Strand Arcade)

16. Harry’s Café de Wheels

No visit to Sydney is complete without a visit to Harry’s Café de Wheels at some stage of the day (or very late at night). The Woolloomooloo institution has been dishing up flaky pastries with potato mash and mushy peas, and hot dogs, since 1936 when it opened as a caravan out the front of the suburb’s naval docklands.

Harry's Cafe de Wheels stand selling Harry's famous pies, Woolloomooloo — Drop by Harry’s to try the famous pies. (Image: Destination NSW)

Over the years, high-profile names have sampled its spoils including Frank Sinatra, Elton John and Richard Branson. Its success has spawned several offshoots right around the city.

Neon sign at local pie haunt Harry's Cafe de Wheels in Woolloomooloo — Harry’s Café de Wheels is a local institution. (Image: Destination NSW)

17. Bondi Beach and Icebergs

You’ve seen the iconic surf rescue show, now it’s time to hit up the beach yourself (staying between the red flags, please). Bondi Beach is also home to the iconic Icerbergs restaurant and swimming pool. Do yourself a favour and book in for lunch and enjoy some delicious modern Australian fare, or, take a refreshing dip in arguably the world’s most beautiful saltwater pool.

Icebergs swimming pool at Bondi Beach — Take a dip in the Bondi Icebergs pool. (Image: Destination NSW)

Discover the best things to do in Sydney.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

17 iconic Sydney attractions everyone has to see at least once