Located on Australia's east coast, Sydney boasts sunny beaches, beautiful parks, incredible architecture and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. Hitting the sweet spot between easygoing and exciting, this dynamic city is the most visited by tourists from across the world. Sydney is a true-blue metropolitan city of the 21st Century, with a heady blend of different cultures and places. You could be walking down the lively streets of Paddington one moment and enjoying a meal at the Vietnam-inspired Cabramatta just 10 minutes later.
Apart from the exhilarating spirit of the city, there's much you can enjoy in Sydney, like climbing to the top of Harbour Bridge, trekking up the Blue Mountains or going on a peaceful cruise. If you're planning to spend two days in Sydney, our itinerary will help you experience the city in the best way possible.
Weekend in Sydney - How To Spend Your Day
Weekend in Sydney - Detailed Itinerary
Visit the Iconic Attractions in Sydney
Circular Quay
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Opera House
The first stop in your Sydney adventure is Circular Quay, the perfect showcase of this city's spirit; vibrant, buzzing with activity and always beautiful. Circular Quay functions as the city's primary ferry terminus and is situated in the heart of Sydney Cove, known to be home to one of the first settlements in Australia. Presently, Circular Quay functions as the gateway connecting tourists and locals alike to major attractions in Sydney like The Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and more. Apart from serving as a transport hub, Circular Quay also gets much of its appeal from all the outdoor eateries available nearby. It’s the perfect place for a scrumptious breakfast overlooking the soothing waters of Sydney Harbour.
- Make sure to keep your purse strings tight! Sure, you can go on a walkabout, see the popular attractions, and click Instagrammable pictures; but keep in mind, that the more touristy a place is, the costlier it will be, especially in terms of food and beverages.
- Get a proper list of attractions that you would like to visit around Circular Quay so that you do not miss out on any of them.
- Circular Quay is a major hub for all kinds of cruises and tours. Make sure you get the details and timings of those you wish to explore.
- Indulge your taste buds with the wide selection of regional and international cuisines at the many dining facilities around Circular Quay.
🇦🇺 Local Travel Tip 🇦🇺
Do not miss out on the spectacular views while at Circular Quay. You can take a walk along the foreshore or visit the Royal Botanical Gardens for this purpose.
Restaurant Recommendations
Time for breakfast? Fret not, there are many good restaurants around the area. Our personal recommendations include:
Ground Control Cafe | MCA Cafe | Black and White Espresso Bar - The Rocks
After a hearty breakfast at Circular Quay, continue on to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Located just 1.5 km from the Quay, the bridge looms over Sydney Harbour and is visible from every part of the Quay. Established in 1932, the Sydney Harbour Bridge was the brainchild of engineer JJC Bradfield and turned out to be a huge source of employment during the Depression period. Often described as a 'coat hanger' by locals, this bridge has a massive presence and also doubles as an adventure attraction. Looking for a breathtaking view? Climb to the top! Get pictures clicked at the top of the bridge with iconic Sydney landmarks in the background and also learn interesting insights about the bridge from the climb leader.
- Anyone above the age of 8, 1.2 meters or more in height, who is generally healthy and has a spirit for adventure is allowed to climb.
- Make sure you have eaten enough before the climb and well hydrated. You must have a blood-alcohol reading below 0.05 to climb. .
- All your personal belongings must be stored in the locker rooms along with the camera and Go Pro.
🇦🇺 Local Travel Tip 🇦🇺
You can walk across the bridge from either direction, and it takes between 15-30 minutes reckoning on the pace you set. There’s a security fence all the way but you’ll be able to poke your camera through the gaps and capture shots.
Continue your Sydney expedition by walking to the Sydney Opera House. This legendary establishment is a landmark that defines Sydney. Established in 1973, the Sydney Opera House is a premiere performance venue and hosts some of the most famed artists from around the globe. Identified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this monument is an archeological marvel with its notable white, sail-shaped structure. You have the option of either exploring the opera house on your own or opting for a guided tour. The latter is a great option especially if you are interested in learning more about its fascinating past. The Sydney Opera House’s visiting hours are between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Ticket prices depend on the performance you're watching, but generally start from AUD $47.
- Bada Gili is a light and music show that involves a projection on the shells of the Sydney Opera House. The show lasts for 7 minutes narrating the stories of history and culture of Australia's First Nations and is best watched from the Monumental steps.
- For those looking to take souvenirs from the Sydney Opera House, the gift shop has an excellent collection of gifts. The most bought item from here is the Sydney Lego set, but if you are on a budgeted trip the 3D wooden puzzle is a great buy.
- The Sydney Opera House loves kids and has many activities and programs for them particularly during the school holidays.
- .Your chance of visiting all the theatres on a tour decrease as the day comes to an end as they have performances lined up and do not allow guests to enter.
🇦🇺 Local Travel Tip 🇦🇺
The Sydney Opera House lets visitors walk around freely in the premises. If the theatre's does not have a show running, you can go inside and marvel at the interiors. You can click as many photographs as possible, use their restrooms and enjoy the view from the monumental steps.
Restaurant Recommendations
Time for dinner? Fret not, there are many good restaurants around the area. Our personal recommendations include:
Portside Sydney Opera House | Museum of Contemporary Art Australia Cafe | Guylian Belgian Chocolate Café
Experience the Must-See in Sydney
Skydiving
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
Bondi Beach
Kings Cross
Begin your second day in Sydney with a life changing skydiving experience. Witness breathtaking views of the city from 15,000 feet and prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime. What follows next is hard to describe: free fall from the sky at the speed of 200 km/hr for about 60 seconds and experience the joy of literally letting go! You'll pull the parachute one minute before landing and reach the ground safely with the help of the trained jumpmaster. The skydiving institute’s support team will fill you in on safety procedures and basic guidelines to follow. This experience will be memorable lifelong!
- The possibility of a skydive happening largely depends on the weather. While Sydney is mostly blessed with great sunny weather most of the time, there are always exceptions.
- The dress code required to skydive is simply comfortable clothing.
- Along with a restriction on wearing boots or heels, the experience provider will also provide you with pair of jump pants and if required, with fleece and gloves.
- The activity is allowed only for individuals aged more than 12 years. For minors between the ages of 12 and 18, a guardian’s consent and presence is required.
🇦🇺 Local Travel Tip 🇦🇺
Beginners are not allowed to skydive alone. A tandem instructor will strap themselves to you and control your decent to ensure you have a safe first experience
Take a breather after the exhilarating skydive experience and make your way towards the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. Since its opening in 2006, this zoo has been home to different species of animals, birds and reptiles with 10 different zones dedicated to a few special families. These zones include Devil's Den, Butterfly Tropics, Gumtree Valley, Wallaby Cliffs, Kangaroo Walk-About amongst others. A special highlight of visiting this zoo is that you can get close to the koalas and even click selfies with them! While at the zoo, you'll also get to meet the endangered Tasmanian Devils and Rocky, the saltwater crocodile. The zoo is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and last entry is at 4:00 PM. Entry fee starts from AUD$35.
- Book your tickets to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo online in advance to eliminate the hassle of standing in long queues at the ticket counter and get direct access to the attraction.
- Wear a hat and sunscreen at all times when visiting WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.
- Wear comfortable shoes to the zoo as you may have to walk a lot inside the attraction.
- Ensure that your camera and mobile phones are charged so you do not miss any opportunity of clicking pictures at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.
- Pack your lunch if you want to save money on the meals.
- Supervise the children and maintain safety whenever they are close to the animals in the zoo.
- Visit the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo early in the morning to avoid crowds and explore the attraction at your own pace.
🇦🇺 Local Travel Tip 🇦🇺
Carry a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated and refill it every time from the water coolers placed inside the zoo.
Restaurant Recommendations
Time for lunch? Fret not, there are many good restaurants around the area. Our personal recommendations include:
No trip to Sydney is complete without a stop at the renowned Bondi Beach. Located on the eastern side of the city, Bondi Beach is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Australia. Its clear blue water blends with the endless expanse of equally blue sky. Apart from the breathtaking scenery, this beach is also famous for hosting various sea-facing restaurants, shops and hotels. There's nothing quite like sipping a beer on a warm day overlooking the ocean. You can also go on a 2.5 mile walk along the cliff tops above Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte and spot some whales in the ocean. A great way to discover and explore Bondi Beach -- especially if it's your first time -- is through a guided tour. The beach remains open from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM and entry is free.
- Get an Opal card as you land in Sydney, as it makes public transport easy.
- The best way to explore the Bondi surroundings is on foot.
- Attend free local events. ‘What’s on Sydney’ has a list of free and cheap events.
- You can also find hostels that offer the travellers a chance to work for accommodation. Like in exchange for a few hours of cleaning, you get a free bed.
- Get free internet at places like libraries and McDonalds, as the internet in Australia is very slow.
- Drink at backpacker bars as they offer drinks at a nominal price.
- Uber is cheaper than the local taxi and is a better way to commute if you do not want to wait for a bus or train.
🇦🇺 Local Travel Tip 🇦🇺
Try to opt for Couch surf. Accommodation in Australia can be quite pricey but if you plan your trip in advance, you can find some amazing Couch Surfing hosts all through Australia.
End your time in Sydney by visiting Kings Cross. Once known as the drug and red light capital of Australia, this locality has evolved to a rich and vibrant precinct. Geared more towards adults with its assortment of nightclubs, lively bars and cafes, Kings Cross is a great place to let loose. If time permits, you can visit certain popular landmarks like Piccolo Bar, Old Fitzroy Hotel, Elizabeth Bay House, The Les Girls Building and El Alamein Fountain. Featuring a riot of colours and culture, Kings Cross is the perfect destination to unwind at the end of your trip.
- Kings Cross neighborhood is a rough-and-ready alternative to the clean-cut Sydney CBD.
- Well-paved sidewalks mean that Kings Cross is easily accessible for wheelchair users.
🇦🇺 Local Travel Tip 🇦🇺
Just like in any Red Light District, be mindful of your belongings and avoid exploring Kings Cross alone at night.
Restaurant Recommendations
Time for dinner? Fret not, there are many good restaurants around the area. Our personal recommendations include:
Spend a Weekend in Sydney Under AU$ 130
Day 1 :Combo Deal: Taronga Zoo Entry with Sky Safari Ride & 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Cruise
AU$79
Day 2 : Blue Mountains Scenic World Pass
AU$51
Total
AU$ 130
Book your Sydney Attractions tickets on Headout, and spend just AU$130 on your 2 day vacation in Sydney! Hit up all the prime attractions in the city and save more while you explore more.
Public Transportation In Sydney
You don't have to worry about travel within the city given Sydney's well-connected transport network. Here are your top options:
- Light rail: Sydney's light train network connects Sydney's central business district to major suburbs. The light rail line operates across a 12.8 km route and has 23 stops. There's also a 24-hour service connecting Central to The Star, Australia's second largest casino. The Sydney light rail network runs from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM on Sat-Thu and 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM on Friday. The line is operated by Trabsdev and uses the smartcard-based Opal ticketing system. You can get your Opal card over the counter at thousands of retailers or on the Opal website.
- Bus: An integral part of Sydney's public transport network, buses are the easiest way to travel to most of the eastern and northern suburbs. Apart from tourists, a lot of locals make use of the bus network for daily commute. You can either buy tickets for individual journeys from one of the many ticket kiosks located throughout the city or opt for the convenient Opal card which can be used for all transport options. For those traveling after hours, NightRide is a special bus service that runs specifically from 12:00 AM to 4:00 AM.
- Ferry: You can't visit Sydney and not embark on a ferry ride. They are great for everyday commute due to the absence of traffic. Ferry services in the city are operated by both public and private vendors. The public ferry services covers eight routes and are ideal for moving in and around the Harbour area. You can buy tickets from vending machines available at Circular Quay, Manly and Darling Harbour. Tourists can also opt for private ferry services in the city.
- Sydney Metro: The latest addition to Sydney's vast public transport network, the metro currently operates only on one line, covering 36 km with 13 stops. You can use your Opal card to travel using the metro.
If you prefer traveling directly from Point A to B, opt for taxi services. Currently, over 6000 taxis serve the New South Wales area. Taxis are also available through private app-based taxi services in the city.
Where To Stay in Sydney?
The city offers numerous accommodation options for travelers with different budgets. Here are our top picks:
Luxury
- Park Hyatt Sydney
- Intercontinental Sydney
Address: 7 Hickson Road, The Rocks, NSW 2000, Australia
Why Choose: Located a stone's throw away from Sydney Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay, Park Hyatt is without a doubt the perfect place for a luxurious stay. With amenities like a spa, concierge, on-site restaurant, pool and more, your stay at Park Hyatt is all but guaranteed to be memorable.
Address: 117 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Why Choose: Intercontinental Sydney is located in Circular Quay, overlooking the Sydney Opera House. Given its strategic location, you are assured of seamless travel to all nearby attractions including The Rocks, Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay and more! That the hotel is luxury redefined is the cherry on top!
Mid-range
- Greenwich Inn Sydney Hotel
- The Alison Randwick
Address: 196 Pacific Hwy, Greenwich NSW 2065, Australia
Why Choose: Perfect for tourists, this casual hotel is just a 13 minute walk from St. Leonards Station and 7 km from Taronga Zoo. The hotel is also just 8 km away from Sydney Opera House. Amenities include Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, covered parking, breakfast buffet and more.
Address: 136-138 Alison Road, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia
Why Choose: The Alison, located in Randwick, is a great option if you're looking to sightsee and be close to other attractions in the city. The boutique guesthouse offers a fine mix of comfort and charm with premium bedding, free Wi-Fi and more.
Budget
- Woolbrokers Hotel
- Glenferrie Lodge
Address: 22 Allen St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
Why Choose: The biggest selling point of the Woolbrokers Hotel is its location. The reasonably priced hotel is located within walking distance of attractions like the Sydney Tower Eye, Circular Quay, Harbour Bridge, Sydney Fish Market and more!
Address: 12 Carabella St, Kirribilli NSW 2061, Australia
Why Choose: This 19th Century heritage guesthouse is located on a tree-lined street in Sydney's fashionable Kirribilli neighborhood and offers proximity to attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and more.
Tips & Hacks For Making The Best of 2 Days in Sydney
- While you can buy individual tickets for some modes of transport, your best bet would be to get an Opal card. This smartcard can be used on trains, ferries, buses and the Light Rail. You can top up your Opal card at train stations, convenience store, and online (if you're registered).
- If you get a hotel in the Central Business District (CBD), you can actually walk to most of the popular attractions. The Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, Circular Quay and other landmarks are all within walking distance of the CBD. Walking through the streets of Sydney will also afford you a deeper understanding of the city.
- Sydney is a city of early risers and most cafes open by 7:00 AM. You can go on a walk during the wee hours of your morning to avoid both tourist traffic and harsh sunlight.
- Sydney is generally warm and humid and you should pack accordingly. Bring a pair of jeans, a couple of shorts, swimming trunks or bathing suit, some t-shirts, a pair of flip flops, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. If you're going during the monsoon season, also pack an umbrella or raincoat.
- When it comes to food, Sydney will not leave you disappointed. It offers a glorious mix of cuisines including chicken schnitzel, pad thai, kebabs, meat pie, laska, Brazilian barbeque and much more. A local breakfast favorite is avocado on toast. Also give vegemite -- a food spread famous in Australia -- a try.
- Wi-Fi is pretty weak in Sydney and you'll need to purchase to a hotspot device to access the internet at all times.
- Smoking is a big No in most parts of Sydney and a single pack costs a whopping AUD$27. If you smoke, look out for areas with designated smoking zones.
- There are a couple of free art galleries you can visit if time permits. These include the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Art Gallery of New South Wales amongst others.
FAQs: Weekend in Sydney
However, 2 days in Rome is a sufficient amount of time in order to see all the 'musts', including the Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. In addition – if you plan well – you can get just a bit off the beaten path and explore the city center deeper, which will make your trip so much more memorable
Take public transit. To turn Sydney into budget Sydney start by taking public transit.
Use your Opal Card to save more. An Opal Card is the tap pass you can use to pay for public transit in Sydney.
A harbor tour for $5.85. Tour Sydney Harbour by ferry.
Walk and soak in the city.
Sydney is a very casual city, and so low-key clothing is recommended for visitors. Tourists can take a few pair of jeans, some loose-fitting t-shirts, skirt or shorts in the summer, dressy slacks, comfy walking shoes, dressy high heeled shoes or sandals, or a few casual dressy tops.
If you are planning on doing at least three attractions, definitely get the Sydney Pass. It will save you money. We did the Hop On Hop Off Bus, Taronga Zoo and Sydney Opera House Tour.
September to November: The spring season (September to November) is the driest and ideal for outdoor exploration activities as well as activities like bushwalking and cycling
