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)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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)

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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.

The outback is calling, and the adventure is made all the easier with this hot new AAT Kings’ tour.

It’s the desert palette of rust-red earth and vast cobalt sky that calls you at first, for where better to get away from it all than the outback? Of course, once you start driving, taking note of all the weathered pubs, dusty tracks and tiny towns held together with humour, resilience and more corrugated iron than ever deemed possible, something else grabs a hold of you: the idea that far from the celebrated icons and landmarks associated with Australia, you’re finally immersed in an authentic slice of local life that few have ever experienced.

Ancient landscapes, proud pastoral histories, ghost towns, culinary powerhouses and a rich Indigenous heritage; there are plenty of facets to life on the land. The best way to experience all of the above with both ease and like-minded friends? AAT Kings’ new Outback New South Wales Adventurer, a 9-day small group tour. This Sydney-return itinerary is designed to connect travellers not only with iconic outback destinations, but with the characters, culture and experiences that bring each place to life.

Highlights? The Adventurer has more than a few, but here are eight to start.

1. Broken Hill

See the striking art at Living Desert and Sculptures. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Welcome to Broken Hill, where mining history, outback eccentricity and a surprisingly rich arts scene unite in a rusty desert landscape. In Australia’s first heritage-listed city, exploration is quickly rewarded. Begin with a guided walking tour taking in the city’s grand Victorian and Art Deco architecture. Later, enjoy visits to both the Broken Hill City Art Gallery and the Living Desert and Sculptures – the perfect place to enjoy the changing colours of an outback sunset. Of course, no visit to Broken Hill is complete without a stop at the historic Palace Hotel Broken Hill, famous for its role in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Happily, it makes for the perfect spot for dinner.

2. White Cliffs

people in a mine in white cliffs nsw — Strap on your hardhat and head underground. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Strap on your hardhat and start spending your imaginary fortunes; White Cliffs, Australia’s oldest commercial opal field, is begging you to come in search of rare pineapple opals. Admittedly, you’re much more likely to find white opals, but the true gems of White Cliffs – where much is built underground to escape the desert heat – are everywhere.

Here, you’ll descend 13.5 metres underground into a working mine to learn about the region’s heritage, and observe how miners continue the search for these prized gemstones. Perhaps you’ll even find a couple yourself?

3. Mungo National Park

mungo national park nsw outback — Spend time in the striking, lunar-like landscape of Mungo National Park. (Credit: Destination NSW)

With its lunar-like landscape made up of ancient, dried lake basins and sculpted sand and clay formations, a drive into UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park is somehow two things all at once: uniquely Australian with vast outback skies, and somehow otherworldly, as though you’ve been dropped off by spaceship. At its heart lies the iconic Walls of China, a 30-kilometre sand-and-clay lunette shaped by thousands of years of erosion.

Understanding more than 40,000 years of Barkindji, Mutthi Mutthi and Ngiyampaa history begins with a visit to the Visitor Centre, and concludes with a sunset tour led by local Aboriginal guides. A key experience? Learning about the discovery of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady. At 40,000+ years old, these are among the oldest human remains found anywhere in the world.

4. Kinchega National Park

kangaroo in Kinchenga National Park nsw — Meet the locals of Kinchega National Park. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Some come to Kinchega National Park for its iconic Darling River landscapes full of birdlife and haunting river red gums; others visit for its rich First Nations and pastoral history. Your visit will encompass all of the above, with a guided tour (part of AAT Kings’ MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience) designed to give a deeper understanding of Barkindji cultural heritage, history and traditions.

Walk with local guide David as he shares ancestral knowledge and creation stories, and explains how native plants – through bush food and bush medicine – have sustained Indigenous communities for thousands of years. Then sit back and enjoy those views alongside native tea and sweet treats.

5. Griffith

chef at zecca restaurant in griffith — Treat your tastebuds to ‘the food bowl of Australia’. (Credit: Destination NSW)

How can you say no to a visit to a destination widely regarded as ‘the food bowl of Australia’? Shaped by fertile farmland and home to approximately 75 per cent of New South Wales’ wine grapes, this is a day to roll up your sleeves and enjoy the best gastronomy the state has to offer. Think vineyards, cellar doors, cafes and restaurants largely shaped by its multicultural heart (Griffith is not only home to over 60 nationalities, but has the highest proportion of Italian ancestry anywhere in Australia).

6. Mudgee

exterior of lower wines in mudgee nsw — Visit some of Mudgee’s best wineries. (Credit: Destination NSW)

Nestled by the Cudgegong River, Mudgee packs a big punch for a heritage country town, having carved a reputation for itself as one of the country’s leading (and award-winning) wine regions, a key epicurean destination, and a regional arts centre growing in both visibility and vibrancy.

Take a moment to enjoy the town’s 19th-century charm before heading to Lowe Family Wine Co. for a guided tasting of organic and biodynamic wine, followed by a relaxed lunch featuring a feast of homegrown and local produce. Will you walk away with bottles of Mudgee’s iconic reds under your arms? It’s a distinct possibility.

7. Silverton

see the living ghost town of silverton on AAT Kings new NSW outback tour — See the living ghost town of Silverton.(Credit: Destination NSW)

A once-booming silver mining hub, the dystopian setting for Mad Max 2, and now a tranquil settlement that’s home to around 50 people; Silverton is considered a living ghost town and remains a sight to behold.

Take time to explore its heritage streets (and perhaps take a look at the quirky Mad Max 2 Museum) and the Silverton Hotel, an iconic outback pub, before a visit to Silverton Gaol & Historical Museum. It’s home to a wealth of colonial artefacts, early mining equipment and stories from the outback’s pioneering past which will serve to anchor you firmly in place.

8. Shear Outback

man working at shear outback in nsw — Get a glimpse behind the wool curtain. (Credit: Destination NSW)

If you ever find yourself singing, “click go the shears boys, click, click, click…”, you’ve come to the right place. Shear Outback, an award-winning tourist and education attraction located in Hay, brings to life the traditions and stories of one of the outback’s most enduring industries: sheep shearing.

Here, in the heart of the Riverina, you’ll enjoy live shearing demonstrations, meet the shearers, shedhands, sheepdogs and yes, sheep, who come together to show guests exactly what it takes to provide Australians with all that glorious wool.

Discover more of Outback NSW with AAT Kings. Visit aatkings.com.

17 iconic Sydney attractions everyone has to see at least once

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

1. BridgeClimb Sydney

2. Sydney Opera House Tour

3. Sydney Harbour Cruise

4. Raging Waters Sydney

5. Luna Park Sydney

6. Sydney Tower Eye

7. The Sydney Ferry

8. Bondi Beach

9. Eat Street in Parramatta

10. The Rocks Market

11. Barangaroo Reserve

12. Manly

13. South Head

14. Cockatoo Island

15. The Strand Arcade

16. Harry’s Café de Wheels

17. Bondi Beach and Icebergs

Flying from Sydney Airport today? Get there early to avoid disruption

A private sauna with a sea view: inside Elysium Manly’s new wellness suites

Your ultimate guide to the best bottomless brunches in Sydney

Transport NSW says Sydney ferries will not be free after all

This new tour takes you to the best and most unexpected parts of NSW’s outback

1. Broken Hill

2. White Cliffs

3. Mungo National Park

4. Kinchega National Park

5. Griffith

6. Mudgee

7. Silverton

8. Shear Outback

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

1. BridgeClimb Sydney

2. Sydney Opera House Tour

3. Sydney Harbour Cruise

4. Raging Waters Sydney

5. Luna Park Sydney

6. Sydney Tower Eye

AI Prompt

7. The Sydney Ferry

8. Bondi Beach

9. Eat Street in Parramatta

10. The Rocks Market

11. Barangaroo Reserve

12. Manly

13. South Head

14. Cockatoo Island

15. The Strand Arcade

16. Harry’s Café de Wheels

17. Bondi Beach and Icebergs

Flying from Sydney Airport today? Get there early to avoid disruption

A private sauna with a sea view: inside Elysium Manly’s new wellness suites

Your ultimate guide to the best bottomless brunches in Sydney

Transport NSW says Sydney ferries will not be free after all

1. Broken Hill

2. White Cliffs

3. Mungo National Park

4. Kinchega National Park

5. Griffith

6. Mudgee

7. Silverton

8. Shear Outback