Sydney Itinerary: How To Spend 7 Days In Sydney

Sydney is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the world. It should be on the bucket list of every jet setter. Not only is the famous Opera House a must-see, but the whole city is full of unforgettable views, delicious food, and incredible attractions.

With so much to choose from, I would understand you might be worried about missing out during your trip. You could spend months here and still not run out of things to do in Sydney.

Still, you don’t want to leave feeling like you hadn’t gotten a real taste of all that makes Sydney such an incredible city.

That’s why I’ve put together this Sydney Itinerary for 7 days. Whether you have 7 days or only one day in Sydney, you’ll be able to say you made the absolute most of your trip to this world city.

Looking for a place to stay in Sydney, read my extensive article on the best areas and where to stay in Sydney here.

The Ultimate Sydney Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney Harbour, Opera House And Harbour Bridge

Of course, on Day 1 you'll want to see the biggest landmarks in Sydney, the Opera House, and Harbour Bridge.

When you head for Circular Quay, prepare for crowds. This is easily the most crowded area in Sydney, especially if you’re coming at the height of tourist season.

If you want to get a perfect Instagram shot during this part of your trip, try to get here by 7 am. Likely you won’t be alone, but you’ll avoid the worst of the crowds.

You should plan on spending your entire day in this area. There are tours of the Opera House, you can climb Harbour Bridge, or leave with a guided walking tour of Sydney.

Since this area is the heart of the CBD (the Central Business District) there is way more than a day’s worth of activity in and around Circular Quay. Don’t worry if you don’t see everything on your first trip.

History buffs should take the time to do the Opera House tour, which discusses the life and challenges of the architect behind the iconic building, and usually includes a trip through areas of the Opera House that are closed to the public.

Enjoy the view of the main stages, the ceramic interior, the inner and outer beauty of the Opera House. Even if you don’t know anything about the history or significance of the Opera House, the tour is worth it to get to see it up close and personal.

Alternatively, you can head to the other side of Circular Quay and spend a few hours exploring Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art, which is located in The Rocks, a historic neighborhood with beautiful laneways underneath the Harbour Bridge.

Browse the open-air markets, eat some street food, visit some of the oldest pubs in Sydney or indulge in fine dining restaurants with views of the harbor and Opera House, the Rocks is a wonderful introduction to the old, historic Sydney.

Read also: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Sydney's Oldest Quarter The Rocks

Sometime during the afternoon, you should make a trip over to the Opera Bar for a drink. It’s a little pricey, but the atmosphere is not to be missed.

You don't want to miss the sunset over Circular Quay. There are many options for sunset dinner cruises out of Sydney Harbour if you want to take a look at the city from the water. The views are incredible.

Or, if you’re looking for another taste of the city’s history, head to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair to overlook the city from a famous landmark. The views are incredible, you’ll almost always see a professional photographer or two hard at work.

Not a bad slice of Sydney in a day.

Day 2: Bondi Beach & Coastal Walk

No Sydney Itinerary would be complete without spending a day at Bondi Beach. Even if you’ve never heard of Bondi Beach, Sydney’s most famous beach, you’ve probably seen pictures.

The view from Bondi is simply incredible. You won’t see the ocean the same way after seeing it at Bondi.

The beach itself is almost always a crowd draw, so try to keep your gear to a minimum. Bring a beach towel and a bag with your other necessities (including a change of clothes for after swimming). This photo was taken in the winter months, but during the busy summer, the beach certainly gets packed! Still, it’s well worth the trip.

If you fancy, book a surfing lesson or bring your own board if you are already a pro, or wander through the open Bondi Markets on the weekend. Harry’s in Bondi is an iconic brunch spot.

I highly recommend heading over to the Bondi Icebergs to watch the swimmers, and maybe order some food, they offer seasonally inspired specials and it’s definitely some of the best restaurant ocean views around.

You should plan at least a couple of hours to make the walk from Bondi to Coogee. This coastline walk has some of Sydney’s best ocean views, not to mention beautiful rock formations and 2,000 year old Aboriginal rock carvings, and swimming opportunities as well as small food stalls to stock up on snacks.

The Bondi to Coogee walk takes about two hours one way, but I would plan on a little more time. You aren’t going to want to walk it straight through. Give yourself about 2.5-3 hours and take the time to dip in the swimming locations, grab a bite to eat in Bronte Beach or Coogee at the end, and admire the view.

You can easily take the bus or an Uber from here back to the CBD, no need to walk the trail all the way back.

Once you’ve gotten enough of the beach, or need to get out of the sun, there are plenty of great options for food and shopping nearby. If you need a little retail therapy, head over to Bondi Junction.

This shopping district has a wide variety of shops and restaurants. It’s easy to spend a few hours exploring the Junction. Just make sure you’ve set a budget for the day or you might find yourself going home with more than you bargained for!

Even if you only have 2 days in Sydney, you’ll have the sense of really gotten to see some of the best this coastal gem has to offer.

Day 3: Manly Beach

Day 3 is when you can really start digging into Sydney. You’ve seen some of the biggest landmarks, spent a day at the beach, and probably picked up a souvenir or two. But, an itinerary for Sydney shouldn’t limit you to the big tourist attractions.

While Sydney’s attractions are undeniably fun, sometimes you just need a break from the crowds. Fortunately, taking a trip over the Manly Beach will avoid the crowds at Bondi beach, while still offering breathtaking views and amazing swimming.

I’m pretty sure Manly Beach would still take up this much time even if my Sydney Itinerary was only 3 days.

Like Bondi Beach, there's also a beautiful coastal walk you can walk, the Manly to Spit walk is well worth your time if you like nature and being outdoors. The distance between Manly and Spit bridge is a bit over 6 miles (10 km), so you should plan several hours if you want to take this coastal walk. For reference, most people walk about 3 miles an hour, so plan on 3-3.5 hours each way.

But, you don’t have to just power through this walk. If you want to, you can make a whole day of it and spending it exploring the walk and surrounding area. 

The coastal walk also offers more than just good views. Like the Bondi to Coogee walk, you can stop in for a swim, hit shops and stalls along the way, and generally have a good time. 

Plus, the Manly to Spit coast walk features 1,000-year-old carvings from the aboriginal people of Australia.

There are plenty of restaurants near both Manly Beach and Spit Bridge. Clonny’s at Clontarf is a local favorite café halfway through the walk. Their produce is locally sourced, and they offer several gluten-free options as well.

If walking isn’t your jam, have a browse along The Corso with all its shops and restaurants and watch the buskers. Manly has a huge beach to spread out, go for a dip or give surfing a try. Nearby Shelly Beach is also heaven for a snorkeling tour.

Are you a Home and Away fan? Then it’s time to soak up the Summer Bay lifestyle and join a tour to see the film set and maybe some of the filming and cast members! Book your official Home and Away Tour here.

You could spend hours exploring the area around Manly Beach alone, there are so many views and new places to explore. I don’t want you to miss out, so it gets a full day on my Sydney itinerary. Even if you only have 3 days in Sydney, you should spend some time around Manly beach.

Day 4: Explore Newtown, Surry Hills And Paddington

Of course, Sydney sightseeing isn’t the only thing to do while you’re here. The suburbs around Sydney are a huge part of the culture here, each with their own flavor and specialties.

If you have the opportunity, you should definitely spend some time exploring a little further from the CBD.

Newtown is one of the cultural hearts of the suburbs. It has a big student community and therefore a young and bohemian vibe. Shopping down King Street is dominated by interesting boutiques, used bookstores, and vintage shops where you can pick up a set of vintage clothes. Later, head over to Mary’s for one the best burgers in town or visit Bella Brutta for some very creative pizza toppings.

Or, hold off on lunch until you make it over to Surry Hills and enjoy some of the best contemporary Asian food at Chin Chin. Don't order dessert though, you'll want to save that for Gelato Messina.

While Surry Hills is known for its quality restaurants, there’s certainly more to this suburb than eating. Catch a play at Belvoir St Theater, or head over to Oxford St for some more quality vintage clothing.

From here you are pretty much crossing into the neighborhood of Paddington already. I especially like visiting the Paddington Reservoir Gardens, if you have time that is. Every Saturday, they have extensive markets around the church and primary school next door featuring over 200 stalls with home wares, clothes, jewelry and other knick knacks.

If you find yourself still in Surry Hills in the evening, it’s worth doing a bar tour. There are many different themed bars where you can get some fantastic drinks. You can go to a traditional pub or a Japanese themed bar with good food as well as delightful cocktails.

Better yet, head to Kings Cross and for the clubs. Fortunately, clubbing in Kings Cross won't cost an arm and a leg, despite being some of the best nightlife anywhere. If you're a night owl, this is the destination for you.

I’d certainly highlight Kings Cross even in a Sydney Itinerary for 4 days.

Or, if you happen to be in town on a Friday, head over to Chinatown. The weekly night market offers just about everything you can think of and is some of the most fun you can have on a Friday night. No, I’m serious!

Chinatown is worth a visit anytime, but don’t skip the night market on Little Eat Street if you have a chance.

Day 5: Watson’s Bay

Now that you've spent a few days in the city, no 7 day Sydney Itinerary would be complete without taking you to Watson’s Bay.

After 5 days in Sydney, it's probably time for something a little lighter, like beautiful views in Australia's oldest fishing village. I'd highly recommend taking the ferry from Circular Quay to get to Watson’s Bay. Not only is the ride beautiful, but that will give you another chance for the perfect photos of the Opera House and Circular Quay’s other landmarks.

Plus, if you leave early in the day, you might just avoid the crowds.

The ferry will take you across Sydney Harbour. Stop in at Doyle’s on the Beach for a fantastic seafood lunch with a view of the ocean. Or, if you aren't quite ready for lunch yet, head up to Hornby Lighthouse on South Head Lookout.

Hornby Lighthouse was built in 1858. It's an iconic red and white lighthouse, perfect for some Instagram shots. If you happen to be in Australia in winter, this is also a fantastic place for whale watching. Of course, the views overlooking the ocean are breathtaking at any time of year, whales or not. This Sydney Itinerary has taken 5 days, I would be remiss not to recommend the lighthouse.

Next, take a trip down to Watson's Bay Boutique Hotel. You may want to stay till evening as well since this location also features a Beach Club.

They also host a wide variety of events, from weddings to photos with Santa. If you’re looking to do something special while in Sydney, Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel may be the place to do it.

Be sure to stay through sunset, since this is one of the best spots for a fantastic sunset sky in Sydney.

Day 6: Best Sydney Attractions

You’ve now spent 5 days in Sydney. It’s time to head back to some of the best attractions the city has to offer. You might be wondering how many more places there are to visit in Sydney, but don’t worry, there are plenty more. I can’t fit them all on this itinerary!

Some Sydney attraction highlights are:

• A day or sunset kayak tour of Sydney Harbour,
• Breakfast with Koalas at WILD life Zoo,
• The Chinese Garden of Friendship in Darling Harbour
• Sydney Tower Observation Deck.

Or you could carve out your own destinations. Didn’t get a chance to do the Harbour Bridge Climb on day 1, you can do it today!

Want to go back to Chinatown or spend some more time in Newtown? Go for it. Want to get away from your fellow tourists for a bit? Head to Balmoral Beach or Bradleys Head for a quieter experience close to Sydney Harbour.

But there are a few places I have to mention if you're still looking for places to visit in Sydney, Taronga Zoo and the Sea Life Aquarium both stand out.

Taronga Zoo is open from 9:30 to 5, every single day of the year. More than a great zoo, it also offers views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. There are also plenty of must-see views from the cable cars leading up to the zoo itself. Jump the queue and book your tickets ahead online.

Once inside, you can see tigers up close on Tiger Trek, watch giraffes with the Opera House as a backdrop, and visit the newest additions to the zoo, the Capybaras.

Or, if a regular zoo tour doesn’t appeal, sign up for an all-day experience. The Keeper for a Day and Cadet Keeper programs will give you, and your kids, a behind-the-scenes look at what Zoo Keepers do, and how they care for the animals.

Taronga Zoo also helps fund and inspire a wide range of conservation efforts. Many of their tours, like Tiger Trek, also include information about how your choices can help protect and preserve rare endangered animals. Your shopping choices really matter, and you’ll have more reasons to care after getting up close to Taronga’s Sumatran tigers.

Sydney’s SEA Life Aquarium is a must-see for ocean lovers, even if you’ve been to one of SEA Life’s other locations. They also have a commitment to conservation and especially focus on the marine habitats surrounding Australia.

With over 700 species of fish in the Aquarium, there’s a little something for everyone. Some exhibits re-create the Great Barrier Reef, the Harbour environments, and even shipwrecks. Spend time on the Penguin Expedition, or in Shark Valley.

The Aquarium is family-friendly. But, it’s not just for kids. Adults will be mesmerized and astounded by the beauty and variety of ocean life contained in the Aquarium.

You can also see some animals up close, all year round, not to mention special events and occasions held at the Aquarium. Afterwards, explore around Darling Harbour, a laid-back neighborhood by the water attracting many families with children.

Whatever you do, I had to mention these key locations, a Sydney Itinerary for 6 days would be lacking without them.

Day 7: Top Day Trips From Sydney

By day 7, you may be wondering what’s left to see in Sydney. There’s plenty more you won’t have explored, trust me, there isn’t time to do it all in only 7 days. But, if you’re going to be here that long, you should spend at least one day outside the city.

Take a day trip away from the hustle and bustle and see more of Australia’s incredible landscape, hikes, and attractions.

At the top of my list of day trips from Sydney is the Blue Mountains National Park. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and has some of the most beautiful mountains in the world. History buffs and those interested in Australia's cultural heritage will want to take the time to seek out some of the aboriginal paintings and carvings in the park.  

Hikers have access to 140 kilometers (approx. 87 miles) of trail, ranging from beginner to expert difficulty.

Almost everyone will enjoy the breathtaking blue-tinted mountains that overlook the Eucalyptus forests. The Eucalyptus itself is responsible for the blue haze in the air, the color giving the mountains their name.

The Eucalyptus trees also scent the air in places. Their mild scent adds ambiance and mystery to the park's vistas, waterfalls, and aboriginal paintings.

The Three Sisters rock formation is only the start of the photo opportunities, available for professionals and amateurs alike. To get to see all of the attractions of the Blue Mountains in one day, I recommend going on a group tour like this one.

Or, if you’re looking for something more physical, try yourself at rock climbing or book a horseback tour of the park.

Now, after 7 days in Sydney, and especially after finishing with a trip to the Blue Mountains, you’ll probably want something more relaxing. I certainly would! It’s time to head to Sparadise, the Japanese Bath House in the Blue Mountains.

Fair warning, you can't just drop into Sparadise. They require bookings in advance, and you should plan to spend at least a few hours here. It might pay to rent a car for the day to be extra flexible. The Blue Mountains are not big and you can easily drive around yourself, there are plenty of signs.

This place is a true hidden gem. Converted from a Tudor house, Sparadise offers traditional herbal baths, outdoor spring-water bathing, hot and cold spring baths, massage, and a Japanese Zen Garden.

While you're here, take some time to go over to the teahouse. Freshly brewed and expertly blended and prepared tea is a treat you shouldn't miss. They offer a wide selection. There's something here for you even if you usually think tea is just fancy leaf water.

Honestly, if you have a few extra days at the end of your trip, I’d recommend getting a room here. They offer rooms in the Tudor house itself, as well as in individual cabins.

Taking some time to relax and rejuvenate at the end of your vacation will help you process and appreciate everything you've done while in Sydney.

If the Blue Mountains aren’t quite what you’re looking for, there are plenty of other day trips available. The Hawkesbury River Cruise is beautiful and follows a historically significant route with plenty of notable locations.

Another great day trip from Sydney is to the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s oldest wine regions. Visit local vineyards and combine it with a lovely lunch on this day tour. If you want to plan something extra special, take a 2-hour helicopter return flight to the Hunter Valley and enjoy a gourmet three-course lunch including a bottle of wine and wine tasting on this exclusive tour.

Or, head to Royal National Park if you’re a cliff and beach lover. Royal National Park has incredible views and also offers snorkeling, whale watching, fishing, and other ocean pursuits. Don’t miss to visit the infamous Figure 8 Pools! You can book your full-day trip right here.

It’s also lovely to make your way over to The Southern Highlands, to Kangaroo Valley or over to Fitzroy Falls, which are in the hinterland of Wollongong. If you are looking for the opportunity to see Australian native animals in their natural habitat, this is one of the best day trips you could wish for.

Sydney Itinerary – Final Words

You may have noticed that this is an action-packed seven days. I’ve tried to fit as much into this Sydney itinerary as possible. The truth is, you could probably take much longer than 7 days trying to fit in everything on my list, but that’s a good thing! It means there will be more for you to do when you come back!

Hopefully, you have a better idea of what to do in Sydney during your next Australian vacation. If you love it here half as much as I do, I know you’ll want to come back for more.

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