Avid travelers, backpackers, and digital nomads are elated that Australia recently opened its doors for international travel. We are sure that Sydney, the capital city of New South Wales, is at the top of many bucket lists.

Syndey, also known as The Emerald City, is a booming metropolitan along an iconic Eastern Australian Harbor. It has much to offer tourists, from beautiful gardens to stunning neo-gothic architecture to a lively nightlife scene.

We have compiled a couple of Sydney’s top tourist attractions below that you can visit for less than a day.

Bondi Beach

This world-famous Australian beach is a must-see. It is a great spot to catch some waves and sunbathe with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Many lively bars, nightclubs, and restaurants are also steps away from Bondi Beach Park. There are also numerous hotels, luxury beachfront resorts, and vacation home rentals (including a couple seen on Netflix’s Original series Instant Hotel).

Photo by: nicoisola

Sydney Harbor Bridge

Sydney Harbor Bridge, which connects the city to the outer suburbs, is a stunning arch-shaped structure first built in the 1930s. Visitors can drive, walk, or even climb across the iconic bridge. Scaling the Sydney Harbor Bridge is a pastime for many adventurous travelers.

Photo by: kyledrysdale

Hyde Park

At the heart of Sydney’s business district, you will find Hyde Park. It is the oldest park in Australia, complete with striking water fountains, grassy picnic spots, and a whimsical wisteria arbor. In addition, check out St. Mary’s Cathedral, conveniently across the street. The historic landmark is a prime example of Neo-gothic architecture with beautiful stained-glass windows.

Photo by: celina.sydney

Sydney Opera House

No trip to Sydney would be complete without a visit to the iconic opera house. Whether you are catching a show or walking by for a photo-opt, you will surely want to see the unique building. It was first constructed in the late 1950s, taking about fourteen years to complete the breathtaking shell-shaped structure.

Photo by: mattbarryimages

Royal Botanic Garden

Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens is an oasis nestled inside a cosmopolitan city. It is home to thousands of plants, including native and international varieties. Be sure to check out Calyx and a few noteworthy exhibitions include Inside The Tide, which teaches visitors about marine and coral life, and a live-action production of Tinkerbell and The Dream Fairies.

Lastly, be sure to stop by Piccolo Me to try out botanical-flavored ice cream and other yummy desserts.

Photo by: onceuponacraving_

The Rocks

The city’s historic district, The Rocks, must be on your Sydney trip itinerary. It was previously home to the Australian Aboriginals and, later, Chinese and Irish immigrants. The Rocks is a terrific place to learn about aboriginal culture, eat tasty food, listen to live music, and snag unique souvenir items. 

Photo by: sydney.shotz

Sydney Tower Eye 

The Sydney Tower Eye is an ideal location to catch panoramic views of the entire city. It is over 300 meters tall, making it the tallest building in Sydney. Plus, the observation deck is right by the Westfield Shopping Center. So, you can embark on a pleasant shopping trip after checking out the Sydney Tower Eye.

Photo by: caphtchathemoment