Sydney is one of Australia’s most happening cities & is quite popular among the tourists worldwide because of its abundant attractions and numerous things to do & see. Sydney offers so many experiences (from sightseeing, water sports, food, and live entertainment to shopping) that you can easily spend days exploring Sydney. This is also the main reason that people find it really hard to plan their itinerary when spending just 24 hours in Sydney. What to see and what not to, can cause a lot of confusion and distress.
This guide is for people who are short on time & want to see the best of Sydney. If you are thinking of spending only 24 hours in Sydney, use our itinerary and make the most of it.
Most of the attractions and places we have listed are close to each other with a few exceptions, so it will be a good idea to rent a car for a day. Sydney is full of transportation options –metro and taxis – yet we suggest you rent a car, especially if you have a group of family members or friends. With a rental car at your beck and call, you will have the option to move about at whim. Many big rental car companies offer 1 day car hire deals at really great prices. Feel free to use the booking form to check out the rates.
Start your day at Sydney Tower Eye
Located in the middle of Sydney’s retail precinct, Sydney Tower Eye is the highest viewpoint in the city. Since you will be joining the morning crowd while visiting Sydney Eye Tower, it is better to do so after having breakfast as Sydney Tower Eye doesn’t have a café or a bar. However, like some people you can also visit the attraction on empty stomach if you are okay with snacks from self-serving kiosks.
From the viewpoint’s circular platform you will have the opportunity to witness some of the most amazing 360 degree views of the city. From Opera house, Harbour Bridge to Blue Mountains & beyond, it’s a great place to click a panorama. It opens everyday at 9 AM (except in holiday season) otherwise it would have been the classic sunrise point! It will save you time if you buy the tickets in advance.
Next, it is shopping time…
Sydney Tower Eye is located right next to Pitt and Market Streets. So, though it may feel quite early for shopping, the most logical thing will be to visit the Market Street rather than coming back later. Just exit the Sydney Tower Eye and make way towards Sydney’s most popular Market Street.
In the Market Street, you will find a lot of shopping venues from high-end stores to small establishments and department stores where you can shop to your heart’s desire. From Australian to international products, Market Street has it all.
The Art Gallery of NSW & other classic sites
After visiting the Market Street, head towards the Art Gallery of New South Wales. It is just 6 or 7 minutes drive from Market Street via King St. It is counted among the finest attractions of Australia and is one of the largest public galleries in the country. In existence since 1874, the gallery has collections of Asian, Australian, western art and Aboriginal masterpieces.
Royal Botanic Garden
After spending an hour or two at Art Gallery of NSW & its architecturally important buildings and fabulous art collections, now it’s time to visit the Royal Botanic Garden which is just 1 or 2 minutes drive from the art gallery. Opened in 1816, Royal Botanic Garden is sprawled on 74 acres of land; it is a heritage site and a very well known scientific institution. Located on Sydney Harbor, it remains open throughout the year and the entry is free of cost.
Sydney Opera House
Next on the list is Sydney Opera House. It is a world renowned architectural marvel and has multiple venues that host about 1500 performances annually. Make sure you have lunch before driving to the attractions next in line.
Sydney Zoo & SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
Sydney Zoo is a great place for animal lovers & those who are visiting Sydney with kids. It is 10 minutes drive from Sydney Opera House and if you are coming from Sydney CBD, it is located at a distance of about 38 km.
If you have interest in aquatic animals, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is just 40 minutes drive from the zoo.
Though Sydney Zoo is a treat to animal lovers, if you want o see Australia’s largest Zoo, head towards Taronga Zoo. The Zoo is located on Mosman & you will have to get on a ferry to reach it.
Relax at Bondi Beach
After such a hectic day, it is time to relax a bit and what better place than the famous Bondi Beach. The drive from Sydney Zoo to the beach is about 1 hour long via M4.
In case you weren’t able to get something to eat, Bondi Beach has some great array of cafes and restaurants. So before you walk down the beach for a relaxing stroll, find a café or a restaurant, have a good revitalizing meal and a coffee. Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is one of its main highlights.
Enjoy the sunset at HARBOUR BRIDGE
Though there are many places where you can go for a sunset experience, Harbour Bridge is the best. Sydney Tower Eye is also a good option but we are assuming that you would not want to visit it again.
The drive from Bondi Beach to the Harbour Bridge is about 30 minutes long via New S Head Rd.
Have Dinner in Sydney’s historic precinct
For dinner, nothing is better than The Rocks, which in addition to Sydney’s historic precinct is also quite popular.
The location offers a lot of options where you can drink and dine.
Some of the recommended spots are The Cut or Sake Restaurant and Bar. However, if you feel like walking through a cobbled-stone courtyard, make sure you visit The Argyle.
Before retiring for the night enjoy live music at SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
Sydney Opera House is always abuzz with events and live performances. After dinner visit the Opera House & enjoy some live music and entertainment. Afterwards if you feel like having a cocktail, you can go to The Glenmore – it also offers some amazing views of the harbour.
Where to stay the night in Sydney?
Original Backpackers Sydney & The Village Glebe are two good budget-friendly stay options we suggest; they have good customer reviews & reportedly offer good facilities.
How to find parking?
Most of the venues we have listed have their own or nearby parking areas.