Sydney is jam packed with fun things to see and do – from amazing beaches and trendy bars, to unique neighbourhoods made for aimless wandering. Not sure where to start? Our local city guides are sharing some of their top picks for what not to miss on a visit to Sydney.
As the long-time home to Sydney’s bohemian crowd, Newtown in the trendy inner west offers an array of cheap eats, small bars, and eclectic shops including recycled fashion and thrift shops. When you’re done shopping, wander through some of the back streets to see the street art that changes daily. Newtown is also one of the LGBTQ community’s favourite hang outs, especially at night when you can catch drag shows at the famous Imperial Hotel or hang out with the colourful crowd at the Newtown Hotel (or any of King Street’s small bars).
Glebe Point Road in Glebe is jam packed with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and markets, and is within walking distance of Sydney’s famous fish markets and the newly-renovated tram sheds. Try the Glebe Foreshore Walk for some stunning water views. Glebe Point Road also has one of the highest concentrations of vegan eateries in Sydney. Try Gathered Kitchen for some quick bites, and head down to Badde Manors for coffee and cake.
Home to Sydney’s urban indigenous community, as well as a thriving bar and art scene, Redfern is taking it’s place as one of the new hip suburbs in Sydney. The small bars have tons of character, and the most famous of which, the Bearded Tit, has an impressive drinks menu. You can also find some of Sydney’s most eclectic art and performance spaces here.
In the geographical centre of Sydney lies Sydney’s second city, and it has literally everything including UNESCO world heritage sites, stunning riverside walks, and food from all around the world, as well as a burgeoning theatre and cultural scene. Take the river ferry from Circular Quay or take the train and get off at Harris Park station and discover Sydney’s own Little India. This is a great place for foodies who love to sample world cuisines.
Surrounded by giant Norfolk Island pine trees, Manly Beach is a favourite among Sydneysiders looking to relax on hot summer days. This quintessentially Australian suburb may have a laid-back feel, but there’s plenty going on. Try a surfing lesson with the Manly Surf School or do the 10-kilometre walk to the Spit Bridge past the hidden beaches, or just walk along the Corso soaking up the atmosphere. Manly has plenty of cafes and places to eat and drink and is a great option for those looking for a fun day out and about.
Short on time or just want to feel like a Sydney local? Urban Adventures offers a wide variety of city tours led by locals who know the best sights, bites, and hidden gems that visitors rarely find on their own. For a particularly local experience, our New York Times Journeys: The Other Side of Sydney – Where Sydneysiders Play, Shop, Eat and Drink tour provides a great overview of the city well beyond the Central Business District.