Sustainable Sydney at a glance
Sydney ranked 7th in the world and 1st in Asia Pacific in the 2026 Global Destination Sustainability Index, out of 81 destinations. It is Sydney’s highest ranking yet. The easiest ways to travel kindly here are simple: ride the ferries and trains, walk, shop local and join community events. Read the Destination NSW announcement.
Why Sydney ranks among the world’s most sustainable destinations
The Global Destination Sustainability Index compares cities on environmental, social and economic sustainability, how the destination is managed, and how local suppliers perform. In 2026 Sydney placed 7th of 81 destinations with a score of 87.06, and 1st in Asia Pacific. The entry was a joint submission by Business Events Sydney, Destination NSW and the City of Sydney.
For visitors, that means a city where it is easy to get around without a car, with plenty of free green space, harbour walks and community life to enjoy.
Simple ways to travel kindly in Sydney
Get around by ferry, train and light rail
Sydney’s public transport covers most places visitors want to go. Tap on and off with an Opal card or a contactless bank card or phone. Plan trips at Transport NSW. A harbour ferry is a lovely, low-cost way to see the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the water.
Walk and paddle
Many of Sydney’s best views are free on foot: the harbour foreshore, the Royal Botanic Garden and the coastal walks along the eastern beaches. For a guided start, try a Sydney walking tour, or get out on the water under your own power with kayaking in Sydney.
Shop local and support small businesses
Weekend markets, local cafes, galleries and makers keep money in Sydney’s neighbourhoods. Choosing small local tours and businesses helps the people who make the city special.
Join community events that bring people together
Some of Sydney’s best experiences are free community gatherings. See our Together for Good community events, including Carols in the Domain on Saturday 19 December 2026.
Respect Country, wildlife and nature
Sydney is on the traditional lands of Aboriginal peoples, including the Gadigal of the Eora Nation in the city centre. Take time to learn about the culture, stay on marked paths, leave wildlife alone, carry a refillable water bottle and take your rubbish with you.
Questions visitors ask
Is Sydney a sustainable travel destination?
Yes. In the 2026 Global Destination Sustainability Index, Sydney ranked 7th in the world and 1st in Asia Pacific out of 81 destinations, its highest ranking yet (Destination NSW, 28 September 2026).
We want to see Sydney without a car. What is the easiest way?
Use Sydney’s trains, ferries, light rail and buses. You can tap on and off with an Opal card or a contactless bank card or phone. A ferry ride across the harbour is one of the nicest ways to see the city.
What can we do in Sydney that is free and low impact?
Walk the harbour foreshore, explore the Royal Botanic Garden, do a coastal walk, browse a local market, or join a free community event such as Carols in the Domain.
How can we make our Sydney trip kinder to the city?
Travel on public transport, carry a refillable water bottle, choose small local tours and makers, stay on marked paths, leave wildlife alone and take your rubbish with you.
Source for the ranking: Destination NSW, “Sydney ranks among world’s top 10 sustainable destinations”, 28 September 2026.
