Kirribilli Sydney – Harbour Views, Markets and North Shore Village Life

“Kirribilli is where the harbour reveals itself most generously , and from a suburb so close to the bridge, so full of beauty, it’s hard to believe it’s still within a ferry ride of the city centre.”

Sydney’s Most Beautiful North Shore Village

Kirribilli occupies a small peninsula on the northern shore of Sydney Harbour, directly under the arch of the Harbour Bridge, and it is one of the most enviably located communities in the world. The suburb is compact, quiet, and extraordinarily beautiful,  streets of Federation homes lead down to harbourside parklands, waterfront restaurants, and ferry wharves with views of the Opera House and the CBD skyline that visitors to Sydney’s north shore regard as among the finest in the city. It is where the Prime Minister of Australia maintains a Sydney residence (Kirribilli House), which says something about how desirable this postcode has always been.

Kirribilli Markets

On the fourth Saturday of each month, the grounds of Bradfield Park host the Kirribilli Markets,one of Sydney’s finest monthly markets, combining a quality selection of vintage clothing, handmade goods, antiques, plants, and artisan food stalls with one of the most extraordinary settings of any market in the city. The backdrop of the Harbour Bridge arching overhead and the harbour shimmering below makes the Kirribilli Markets genuinely unique, and the surrounding neighbourhood rewards a morning of exploration before or after the market itself.

Lavender Bay and Blues Point

Kirribilli connects with the neighbouring waterfront precincts of Lavender Bay and Blues Point, which together form one of the most spectacular stretches of harbour foreshore on the North Shore. Wendy’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay,  a remarkable private garden created and tended by artist Wendy Whiteley in the railway cutting below her home,  is one of Sydney’s most beautiful and unexpected public spaces. Blues Point Reserve at the tip of the McMahons Point peninsula delivers one of the finest views in all of Sydney, with the Bridge, the Opera House, and the city skyline in one perfect frame.

Getting to Kirribilli

Kirribilli is served by the Kirribilli ferry wharf, with regular services to and from Circular Quay taking approximately 10 minutes. By train, Milsons Point station on the North Shore line is a short walk from the neighbourhood. The walking route across the Harbour Bridge on the eastern footpath delivers you directly to the Kirribilli area, making a walk across the Bridge and a morning in Kirribilli and Lavender Bay one of Sydney’s finest spontaneous itineraries.

Discover more on our Sydney Neighbourhoods guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kirribilli?

Kirribilli occupies a small peninsula on the northern shore of Sydney Harbour, directly across the water from the city and close to the northern end of the Harbour Bridge. It is one of the closest North Shore neighbourhoods to the CBD.

Why is Kirribilli known for its views?

Because of its position facing the city across the harbour, Kirribilli offers some of Sydney’s finest views of the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the skyline. Nearby lookouts and foreshore paths at Lavender Bay and Blues Point are especially rewarding.

How do you get to Kirribilli?

The most scenic way to reach Kirribilli is by ferry to Milsons Point or Kirribilli wharf, and it is also easily accessible by train to Milsons Point station. From there the village and its lookouts are a short walk.

Does Kirribilli have a market?

Yes. The Kirribilli Markets are a popular regular event known for fashion, art, food and general goods, held near the waterfront. Market dates and hours can change, so check the current schedule before visiting.

Is Kirribilli worth visiting?

For its harbour views alone, Kirribilli is well worth the short ferry or train trip. It rewards a relaxed wander along the foreshore, a visit on a market day, and time simply taking in one of the best outlooks over the harbour and bridge.