Things to do in Sydney
Looking for fun things to do in Sydney? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this guide has something for everyone.
For many tourists landing in Australia, Sydney serves as their initial stop. The nation’s most populous city is an absolute gem, offering a gorgeous skyline, an enchanting harbour, first-rate beaches, and high-quality museums.
Not only is Sydney visually stunning, but its diverse cultural mix also lends it a dynamic and youthful vibe. For newcomers to the city, figuring out what to see and do in Sydney can be quite daunting. Given its numerous iconic sights, deciding where to begin can be challenging. Moreover, travelling in Australia is not exactly budget-friendly. For backpackers navigating Sydney, it’s particularly challenging to discern which activities won’t empty your wallet.
Inexpensive Activities in Sydney
Even for those familiar with Sydney, each visit reveals new experiences. On my latest trip, I chose to stay in the city centre, exploring the most economical ways to enjoy a few days.
After some investigation, I nailed it down. I compiled this comprehensive guide featuring 15 cost-free activities in Sydney, ranging from complimentary city walking tours to visiting impressive art galleries to coastal hikes.For those looking to venture beyond the city without breaking the bank, there are also budget-friendly Blue Mountains tours that offer incredible scenery and nature escapes just a short ride away.
Dive into the vibrant heart of Sydney and discover a treasure trove of free attractions! From the serene Royal Botanic Gardens to the cutting-edge Museum of Contemporary Art, from the bustling Darling Harbour to the sprawling Centennial Park, downtown Sydney has endless possibilities. And the best part? They’re all free!
Free Harbor Activities in Sydney
Participate in a No-Cost Guided
Walk Similar to other global destinations, Sydney offers various cost-free walking tours. This is an excellent method to delve into the city’s past and gain invaluable tips from a resident.
The format will be familiar if you’ve participated in such walking tours in Europe. You join a pre-arranged group at a specified meeting point and stroll around the city for about 2-3 hours, with a few short breaks interspersed.
These Sydney tours are free to join, although tipping the guide at the end is encouraged but entirely optional.
Sydney beckons with a delightful duo of walking tours, one for the morning and one for the afternoon!
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes!
Here are organisations offering daily free walking tours in Sydney:
I’m Free Sydney Times: 10:30 am and 2:30 pm (Sydney tour) 6:00 pm (Rocks tour) Meeting point: Town Hall Square (Sydney tour) Cadman’s Cottage (Rocks tour).
Constructed in 1898, the elegant Queen Victoria Building has been transformed, serving various purposes such as Sydney Markets, a concert venue, the municipal library, and city council offices. Once at risk of demolition, it now thrives as a bustling hub housing 150 shops, eateries, and cafes spread across its four levels.
The building is accessible between 09:00 and 18:00 daily. The ideal way to experience its charm is to sip coffee and soak up the atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is also accessible within the building.
Those keen to delve into the building’s rich history can partake in guided tours that cost AU$ 15 per person and last approximately 45 minutes. These tours kick off at 11:30 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, starting from the Concierge Desk located on the ground floor.
Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 09:00 – 18:00
Sunday and Public Holidays: 11:00 – 17:00
Location: 455 George Street (Adjacent to Town Hall)
Nearest Train Station: Town Hall
Explore the Queen Victoria Building
Marvel at St Mary's Cathedral Architecture
Behold the majestic St Mary’s Cathedral, standing proudly on the edge of Hyde Park on College Street. This historic gem holds the title of being the oldest church in the entire country!
The church’s roots trace back to 1788 when Captain Arthur Phillip first settled in Australia. Construction officially began in 1821. The original cathedral was lost to a fire in 1865, and the current Gothic-style structure was an ongoing project that wasn’t completed until 2000.
When you visit, don’t miss the chance to admire the intricate stained glass windows and the magnificent pipe organs. The accessible entrance is a perfect addition to a budget-friendly Sydney itinerary.
Hours: Monday to Friday: 08:30 – 17:00
Location: Central CBD on St Mary’s Road
Closest Train Station: St James Station
If outdoor adventures are your thing, Sydney has got you covered. The iconic coastal walk from Coogee to Bondi is among the city’s must-do activities. This scenic 6km trek connects some of Sydney’s most celebrated beaches and features stunning viewpoints, quaint cafes, lush parks, hidden coves, and inviting sandy shores.
Though the trail technically starts at Maroubra and concludes at Bondi Beach, you can enjoy it from either end. It’s a moderately easy walk, but carrying water is advisable. Refilling stations are conveniently located along the route.
If you want to immerse yourself in the beach holiday atmosphere fully, stay at a hostel on the beach of Kouga.
Getting There: Buses are available to both Bondi and Coogee beaches.
Note: There’s no direct bus route between Bondi and Coogee. Use bus 313 or 314 to travel between Coogee and Bondi Junction; from the city, take a train to Bondi Junction.
The Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk
Experience Romance at Observatory Hill
On Observatory Hill, you’ll be treated to a jaw-dropping panorama that will leave you in awe. Feast your eyes on the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour as they stretch out in all their glory.
It’s a dreamy spot that will leave you in awe.
Pack some cheese and crackers and relax, watching the world pass by. The area features a grassy park, public art installations, a dome, tennis facilities, and restroom amenities.
Evenings, particularly at sunset, offer an exceptional experience as the city lights up, rendering the view truly enchanting.
Location: Upper Fort St, Millers Point
Nearest Train Station: Circular Quay
Scaling the Sydney Harbour Bridge can be pricey, but traversing it on foot is free. As one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, missing it would be a mistake.
The bridge features pedestrian pathways on both sides, offering varied perspectives of the harbour. Opened on March 19, 1932, it connects Sydney’s Central Business District to the North Shore and consists of eight lanes for vehicles and two rail lines.
Famously nicknamed “The Coathanger” for its arch design, the bridge took eight years and 1,400 workers to complete for $4.2 million. You’re flanked by a staggering 53,000 tons of steel as you walk.
Location: Sydney Harbour
Nearest Train Stations: Milsons Point Station (Northside)
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Experience Street Performances at Circular Quay
Your Sydney experience isn’t complete without visiting Circular Quay, a bustling location in the heart of Sydney Harbour and the city’s most photographed site.
Circular Quay is not only a hub for exceptional views of iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Still, it is also a ferry terminal to locations like Manly, North Sydney, and Darling Harbour.
One of our favourite activities here is listening to the mesmerizing Aboriginal music street musicians perform. When you’re in the area, take a moment to enjoy the enchanting sounds of the didgeridoo performed by skilled indigenous artists.
If the music moves you, feel free to drop some coins as a donation or even purchase their albums.
Strolling through the Royal Botanic Gardens is among Sydney’s top experiences. It’s a tranquil oasis where you can stop and smell the roses, situated close to the Sydney Harbour Opera House and offering stunning city and harbour views.
For those interested in botany or eager to learn more, the Royal Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre is a resourceful stop.
Explore Madrid on a captivating journey – embark on a free guided tour from the heart of the city or venture on a whimsical self-guided walk!
Step into a world of blooming beauty! The gardens enchant visitors daily, with hours that change like the seasons.
Visit their official website for the latest timings.
Nearest Train Stations: Martin Place or Circular Quay
The Royal Botanic Gardens
The Rocks Discovery Museum
The Rocks Discovery Centre is a three-story museum that offers a comprehensive look into the history of The Rocks area, stretching from its early days to the present. Once known as a less affluent and grimy area, The Rocks has transformed into a vibrant neighbourhood featuring some of Australia’s top bars and restaurants within its vintage brick buildings.
This family-friendly museum is located in a renovated 1850s sandstone warehouse. Its exhibits are highly interactive, with touchscreen displays and audio-visual aids that make history come alive. We strongly recommend this venue as one of Sydney’s excellent free activities.
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 – 17:00 (closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day)
Location: Kendall Lane, The Rocks (entry via Argyle Street)
Nearest Train Station: Circular Quay Station
Visit a Free Art Gallery
One of the city’s highlights is the ability to explore some of its most remarkable art galleries at no charge.
Discover the wonders of the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, where admission is free!
Each gallery provides a unique and captivating experience. Even if you’re not an art lover, a brief visit can be eye-opening. The Art Gallery of NSW showcases a mix of modern, indigenous, and contemporary art within a neoclassical building established in 1871. The Museum of Contemporary Art, located by the water near Circular Quay, features a more modern design.
While some special exhibitions might have an entry fee, finding out what’s available during your visit is worth it.
Location: Art Gallery Rd, near the Botanical Gardens
Nearest Train Station: St James Station
Sydney Opera House
Behold the grandeur of the Sydney Opera House! This iconic structure stands proudly beside the majestic Harbour Bridge, captivating the eyes of all who lay sight upon it.
Ideally placed on Bennelong Point, at the terminus of Circular Quay, the Opera House offers stunning vistas of the harbour and the bridge itself.
On a magical day in October 1973, the magnificent Opera House, born from the visionary mind of acclaimed Danish architect Jørn Utzon, dazzled the world with its grand inauguration.
Recognized as one of the globe’s most illustrious venues for the performing arts, it welcomes over 1.2 million visitors each year for various performances, including concerts, theatre, and symphonies.
Experiencing this architectural marvel up close is a must-see in Sydney and New South Wales. For those keen on exploring its interior, numerous informative tours are available. Alternatively, simply appreciating it from the exterior ranks among Sydney’s top free activities.
Location: Bennelong Point, Circular Quay
The nearest Train Station is Circular Quay
Visiting Australia wouldn’t be complete without a picnic or a barbecue, affectionately known as “barbies.”
Bicentennial Park offers 40 hectares of natural beauty, from mangrove swamps to rolling hills and lakefront meadows. The park is roughly an hour away by train and offers all necessary amenities like picnic shelters, free electric BBQs, playgrounds, and restrooms. Ample parking is also available if you decide to drive.
Various walking paths are present, and for an elevated view, climb the Treillage Tower. There’s even a cafe and a bike rental shop on-site.
Keep tabs on their event calendar; the park hosts various activities throughout the year.
Hours: Daily from 06:00 – 19:30
Location: Herb Elliott Avenue, Homebush Bay
Nearest Train Station: Olympic Park Station or Concord West Train Station
Enjoy a Day at Bicentennial Park
Explore Various Markets in Sydney
Sydney is well-known for its vibrant weekend markets. Whether or not you’re interested in shopping, these markets are worth a visit.
Paddy’s Markets
This bustling Sydney market offers everything from unique souvenirs and stylish clothing to mouth-watering food items.
Hours: Wed-Sun: 10:00 – 18:00
Nearest Train Station: Town Hall or Central Stations. Walk to the market.
The Rocks Markets
Spend your weekend strolling through this market, perhaps buying some treasures or enjoying coffee.
Hours: Sat & Sun: 10:00 – 17:00
Nearest Train Station: Circular Quay
Bondi Markets
This weekend hotspot offers a range of items from vintage apparel to handcrafted jewellery and art pieces.
Hours:
Saturday: 09:00 – 13:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00
Location: Near Bondi Beach
How to Get There: Take the train to Bondi Junction, then the 333 bus to Bondi Beach. Walk to the markets.
Rozelle Collectors Market
Open only on weekends, this market specializes in vintage and second-hand items.
Hours: Sat & Sun: 09:00 – 15:00
Location: Rozelle Public School, 663 Darling Street, Sydney
How to Get There: Buses 440, 433, 445, or any in the 500 series.
Although Bondi Beach takes the cake for Australia’s most well-known shoreline, we have a soft spot for Manly Beach and often suggest it as one of Sydney’s top beach destinations.
While Bondi can get overwhelmingly crowded, especially on hot days or weekends, Manly provides a more relaxed atmosphere and additional space to escape the masses.
Manly Beach is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, featuring pristine golden sands, tall trees, a lively boardwalk, and an array of excellent cafes and eateries that stretch along the beachfront.
The Corso, a pedestrian-only street, is your gateway to the beach, filled with numerous boutiques and art galleries to explore.
For those looking to explore Sydney’s Northern Beaches further, Manly serves as an ideal starting point. It’s one of the most beautiful areas in New South Wales.
So, why not take a ferry over and spend the day? If you’re interested in learning to surf, we recommend doing it in Manly rather than Bondi. It’s a fabulous way to spend a day in Sydney.
Getting There: Take a ferry from Circular Quay to enjoy splendid views of Sydney Harbour.
Spend Time at Manly Beach
Stroll in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is an expansive green space covering 40 acres in Sydney’s city centre and is the city’s oldest public park.
Surrounded by major Sydney attractions like St Mary’s Cathedral and the Archibald Fountain, the park is a popular spot for locals to unwind during lunch, feed the birds, or relax.
Location: Elizabeth Street
How to Get There: The closest train stations are Museum Station and St James Station.
Budget-Friendly Transportation in Sydney
Upon your arrival in Sydney, one of the first things you should do is obtain an Opal Card. This card is your ticket for buses, trains, and public ferries. You can load it with funds and use it to cover your transportation costs.
Opal Cards can be purchased at any 7/11 store, shops displaying the Opal logo, and at key train stations such as Town Hall and Central. You can also reload your card at these locations. Utilizing an Opal Card for your travel needs benefits you from daily fare caps and a special $2.50 rate per person on Sundays.
Travelling on a Sunday
The Family Funday promotion offers unlimited travel on buses, trains, and light rail at a mere $2.50 per person, and children under the age of 4 can travel for free. How amazing is that! You can purchase these special tickets at newsstands, convenience stores, and train and ferry ticket counters.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to consult the information desk or your accommodation’s front desk.
Sydney Visitor's Handbook
FAQ
What are some free activities to do in Sydney?
You can enjoy free walking tours, visit art galleries, stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, explore The Rocks Discovery Museum, and take the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk.
How can I explore Sydney Harbour on a budget?
Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge for stunning views, visit Circular Quay for free street performances, and take advantage of the $2.50 Sunday public transport fare cap with an Opal Card.
Where can I enjoy Sydney’s beaches without the Bondi crowds?
Manly Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere, scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay, and great cafes along the waterfront.
Are there budget-friendly markets in Sydney?
Yes — try Paddy’s Markets, The Rocks Markets, Bondi Markets, and Rozelle Collectors Market for unique finds, fresh food, and local crafts.
What’s the cheapest way to get around Sydney?
Get an Opal Card for discounted fares and daily caps. On Sundays, enjoy unlimited travel for just $2.50 per person.
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