Sydney Day Tours: Explore the City’s Charms
The vibrant surroundings of Sydney feature must-see destinations packed with things to do.
Whether local to Australia or visiting from afar, working out how to fit in as much adventure as possible when exploring the Sydney region is at the top of everyone’s list.
Add these amazing day trips to your Sydney itinerary.
Blue Mountains
Head to the mountains and fill your camera roll or social media feed with exquisite shots of rolling hills, waterfalls and classic rural vibes. Fill up on tasty country treats on a day trip or escape to the country and settle in for a night or two at a cosy heritage cottage.
Hunter Valley
Australian wine may be the top reason for your visit, and the Hunter Valley will deliver. The local food will grab your attention if you are not looking to savour the grapes on a cellar door tour. Cap off a gastronomic adventure by savouring the surroundings with hot air ballooning and horse riding through the vineyards.
Palm Beach
The locals call it ‘Palmy’, but you might know it as paradise. Swim, surf, or walk to Barrenjoey Lighthouse for spectacular views. Break up the hour drive north of Sydney by stopping at The Boathouse cottage on the water for coffee, scones and strawberries.
Royal National Park
Head south of Sydney for quintessential Aussie bush, secluded swimming spots, stunning cliffs and spot whales during whale watching season. Also, watch for ancient engravings by ancestors of traditional owners.
Southern Highlands
Rolling hills and forests south of Sydney from the Southern Highlands, an idyllic escape from the city with classic Australian sights and flavours. Along the trail of antique shopping, markets and historic buildings, you will find the biggest drawcard for many visitors, the Bradman Centre, a museum honouring Sir Donald Bradman, the Australian cricket legend.
South Coast
South of Sydney, the Grand Pacific Drive leads you out over the water on the Sea Cliff Bridge and into picturesque seaside towns, including Wollongong and Kiama. If time permits, cycle or walk your way through stunning coastal walks and cycleways in the region, or stop for a round of golf, where you will most probably be joined by some famous Australians – kangaroos!
Shoalhaven Region
A bit further south of Sydney gets you to the Shoalhaven region, a hub of cosy country towns, classic heritage pubs, and delicious local produce. After winding your way on a food tour, head to the white sandy beaches to relax and dip in the clear waters.
Byron Bay
Kick back and chill in ‘Byron’, Australia’s most famous beach town. A dream blend of natural luxury, wellness, and village-style chilled vibes, Byron is the destination for travellers seeking a truly Australian holiday. In the idyllic beach town, take to the water to surf or swim with dolphins, discover the hinterlands, and remember to act cool if you spot a world-famous celebrity.
Hop on, Hop off Bus
The Big Bus Sydney is the perfect way to take in all the major sites of Sydney. Get an introduction to the best of Sydney on day one of your visit, or take a grand circuit to see the sites one final time before your holiday ends. Also, it is a perfect way to rest your feet or save time getting from one attraction to another. Gaze at all the impressive iconic buildings and monuments, and of course, spectacular views of the harbour from the comfort of open-top double-decker buses. Choose from several routes – or make time for all – and hop on board for door-to-door service to the best sights, along with onboard commentary in 8 languages.
Sydney Opera House Tour
It looks amazing on the outside, but wait till you see what’s inside! Step beneath the ‘sails’ of this iconic building on your visit to Sydney. Take a tour, venture backstage, have a memorable dining experience in one of several restaurants, bars and cafes, or take in a show of music, theatre, dance, or opera.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Tour
Get a 360-degree view of dazzling Sydney and the sky at your fingertips as you climb 134 metres above the ground on the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Rise early to climb at dawn to catch an amazing sunrise, during the day to see Sydney in full swing, at sunset or at night to see the city lights sparkle. If you are unsure, the Sampler tour will get you halfway to the top, or you can accelerate your climb with an Express option. For something unique, join a weekend sunset session complete with live acoustic music, join the Karaoke Climb (Mandarin) at Chinese New Year, or declare or renew your vows with the Wedding package.