Dreaming of spending a week in Sydney but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place! This 7-day Sydney itinerary will make sure you experience the best this impressive city has to offer. From sipping coffee in cozy cafes to exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems, I’ve got your perfect week all mapped out. So, pack your bags, grab your sunnies, and let’s get started!
This comprehensive 7-day Sydney, Australia itinerary will guide you through an extraordinary week exploring one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
7-Day Sydney Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and City Highlights
Day 2: Iconic Sydney Sights
Day 3: Bondi Beach
Day 4: Taronga Zoo and Sydney Harbour
Day 5: Day Trip to the Blue Mountains
Day 6: Manly Beach
Day 7: Culture and History
Best Area To Stay In Sydney
The best area to stay in Sydney largely depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your visit. For those looking to be at the heart of the city’s attractions, the CBD (Central Business District) and Darling Harbour offer convenience and easy access to landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Circular Quay is perfect for waterfront views and proximity to ferry terminals. Bondi Beach is ideal for beach lovers seeking a coastal atmosphere with plenty of dining and nightlife options.
Best Time To Go To Sydney
Sydney is a wonderful year-round destination, so choosing the best time to visit depends on your priorities and what you hope to experience during your trip.
Summer (December to February)
Pros:
- Warm weather – perfect for beach activities like swimming and surfing.
- Longer daylight hours for exploring outdoor attractions.
- Lively atmosphere with festivals and outdoor events.
Cons:
- Peak tourist season.
- Crowded beaches and attractions.
- Higher accommodation prices.
- Occasional heatwaves.
Autumn (March to May)
Pros:
- Mild temperatures – ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Lower tourist numbers compared to summer, making it easier to explore attractions.
- Stunning autumn foliage in parks and gardens.
Cons:
- Weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain showers.
- Some attractions may have reduced operating hours.
Winter (June to August)
Pros:
- Mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F).
- Lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.
- Good for indoor cultural activities like museums, galleries, and theaters.
Cons:
- Cooler temperatures may not be suitable for beach activities.
- Shorter daylight hours limit outdoor exploration.
Spring (September to November)
Pros:
- Mild and pleasant weather – great for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- Blooming flowers and blossoming trees create a colorful landscape.
- Shoulder season rates for accommodations.
Cons:
- Spring can be windy, affecting outdoor activities like boating or beach visits.
- Crowds may increase toward the end of spring.
Getting Around Sydney
Getting around Sydney is pretty straightforward thanks to an excellent public transportation system.
Airport Train
Traveling to and from Sydney Airport is hassle-free with the Airport Link train. It’s fast, frequent, and connects directly to the city center. The best part? You can use your contactless credit card to tap on and off, eliminating the need for an Opal card.
Buses
Sydney’s bus network is extensive and convenient, making it easy to travel between different neighborhoods and attractions. From Circular Quay, buses to popular spots like Bondi Beach offer frequent services.
Ferries
Exploring Sydney by ferry is a must. The ferry from Circular Quay to Manly, for example, gives you awesome views of Sydney Harbour and is an easy way to reach Manly Beach.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Sydney. If you prefer getting straight to your destination without the fuss of finding parking or navigating public transport, they’ve got you covered.
Walking
I absolutely love walking around Sydney! It’s such a great way to explore the city at your own pace, soak in the sights, and discover cool spots you might miss otherwise.
Day 1: Arrival & City Highlights
Morning: Arrive in Sydney
Arrive in Sydney in the morning. Check into your accommodation—ideally somewhere central like the CBD or Darling Harbour.
Afternoon: Circular Quay and The Rocks
Head straight to Circular Quay, the hub of Sydney’s waterfront. As you walk along the quay, the Sydney Opera House comes into view—trust me, it’s even more impressive in person!
Next, wander over to The Rocks, Sydney’s historic district. The cobblestone streets and old sandstone buildings give this area a unique charm. Pop into the Museum of Contemporary Art for a quick cultural fix or explore the quirky shops and markets.
Tip: If you’re visiting on a weekend, make sure to check out The Rocks Markets. They offer a variety of food stalls, unique souvenirs, local crafts, and live music.
Evening: Dinner with a View
For dinner, head to the Opera Bar, right by the water, and enjoy your first night out with the city’s most famous attractions as your backdrop. The food’s great, and seeing the Opera House and Harbour Bridge lit up at night is a must.
Day 2: Iconic Sydney sights
Morning: Breakfast and Sydney Harbour Bridge
Start the second day of this seven-day Sydney itinerary with breakfast at a local café — try The Fine Food Store for a delicious meal in a cozy setting. Then, make your way to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. If you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for the BridgeClimb and enjoy panoramic views of Sydney.
Afternoon: The Rocks and Darling Harbour
After your climb, return to The Rocks to explore more. Visit the Rocks Discovery Museum to learn about the area’s Aboriginal heritage and colonial history. For lunch, head to one of the historic pubs —The Lord Nelson Brewery, for instance, is a terrific choice with its own craft beers.
Spend your afternoon at Darling Harbour. This lively area is home to attractions like the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. Or, enjoy a walk around the waterfront, stopping to watch street performers and checking out the shops.
Evening: Barangaroo Reserve
In the evening, head to Barangaroo Reserve, a pretty waterfront park that’s terrific for watching the sunset. For dinner, try a restaurant in Barangaroo’s dining precinct — Barangaroo House offers fantastic food in stylish surroundings.
Day 3: Bondi beach
Morning: Bondi Beach
Begin your day early and catch the bus to Bondi Beach, Sydney’s most famous stretch of sand. Grab breakfast at a charming café like The Depot — you won’t want to miss their Instagram-worthy pancakes.
Tip: If you’re traveling from Circular Quay to Bondi Beach, catch bus number 333. No need for an Opal card; just use your contactless credit card to tap on and tap off. It’s super convenient and saves you the trouble of buying a separate ticket.
Afternoon: Coastal Walk and Coogee Beach
After breakfast, it’s time for the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. This 6-kilometer trail offers amazing views of the coastline, with plenty of spots to stop and take photos. When you reach Coogee, reward yourself with lunch at the Coogee Pavilion. Their rooftop bar is great for relaxing with a drink and enjoying the scenery.
Spend the rest of the afternoon at Coogee Beach. The waves here are perfect for a swim, and the laid-back atmosphere makes it a nice place to unwind.
Evening: Beachside Dinner
As the afternoon winds down, return to Bondi for dinner at one of the many beachside restaurants. North Bondi Fish offers a fabulous seafood menu and beach views — it’s the ultimate way to end your day by the ocean.
Day 4: Taronga Zoo, Mosman Bay, & Sydney Harbour
Morning: Taronga Zoo
Start day four of this 7-day Sydney itinerary with a visit to Taronga Zoo. Hop on the ferry from Circular Quay and reach the zoo in about 12 minutes.
Once you arrive, spend your morning exploring the zoo’s many exhibits. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Australian animals like kangaroos, koalas, and platypuses up close.
Afternoon: Lunch and Mosman Bay
Following a fun morning at the zoo, head to Mosman Bay for lunch. The Mosman Rowers’ Restaurant has delicious food and the best water views. After lunch, check out a scenic walking trail nearby, like the Cremorne Point to Mosman Bay Walk, where you can see the harbor and city skyline.
Evening: Sunset at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair
Head back to the city and make your way to the Royal Botanic Garden. Find your way to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a historic sandstone rock cut into the shape of a bench. It’s one of the best spots to experience an Australian sunset in Sydney, with unobstructed views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Bring a blanket and a picnic, and settle in to watch the sky change colors as the sun sets.
Day 5: Day Trip to the Blue Mountains
Morning: Departure & Featherdale Wildlife Park
Get an early start for day 5 of your Sydney itinerary – a day trip to the Blue Mountains. It’s about a two-hour drive from the city, so consider renting a car or joining a guided tour.
First stop: Featherdale Wildlife Park. This is an excellent place to see Australian wildlife. Snap a picture with a cuddly koala, pet friendly kangaroos and wallabies, and check out the smallest of all penguin species, the Little Penguin. It’s an experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your Sydney itinerary.
Continue your trip to the Blue Mountains, heading toward the charming town of Leura. Here, stop for a quick brunch and grab a few snacks for the rest of the day. I highly recommend trying the French Toast at Sparrows, a cozy local spot with excellent coffee.
Afternoon: Explore the Blue Mountains
After brunch, make your way to Echo Point in Katoomba for one of the most notable views in Australia—the Three Sisters rock formation. The dramatic cliffs and sweeping valleys will take your breath away.
Next, drive to Cahill’s Lookout for a different perspective of the Blue Mountains. This less-visited lookout shows off the Megalong Valley and is a nice place to escape the crowds. Spend your afternoon stopping at various overlooks or hiking some of the scenic trails nearby.
Fun Fact: The Blue Mountains get their name from the bluish haze that hangs over them. It’s caused by the release of eucalyptus oil from the trees, and when the sunlight hits it, it scatters in a way that makes everything look blue from a distance. It’s like nature’s own special filter!
Evening: Return to Sydney
In the late afternoon, make one final stop at Lincoln’s Rock. This lookout provides lovely panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and is an ideal spot for some last-minute photos.
Day 6: Manly Beach
Morning: Ferry Ride and Manly to Shelly Beach Coastal Walk
Kick off your day with a quintessential Sydney experience — a ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly. I recommend taking the Manly Fast Ferry for a quick ride that only takes about 20 minutes. You’ll get remarkable views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and the beautiful coastline along the way.
Once you arrive, grab a coffee and an acai bowl from Palmó Artisan Açai. Their fresh, colorful bowls are the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.
After breakfast, walk along the scenic Manly to Shelly Beach coastal path. Shelly Beach is a hidden gem, nestled in a protected marine reserve. If you’re up for it, bring along your snorkel gear. The crystal-clear waters make it well-suited for a refreshing swim or snorkeling.
Afternoon: Beach Picnic
By now, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Wander back to Manly and order some classic fish and chips from a local takeaway restaurant — Manly Fish Market is my recommendation. Find a spot on the sand, spread out your towel, and enjoy a beachside picnic.
After lunch, take some time to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you choose to swim, surf, or lounge with a good book, Manly Beach is the best place to decompress. Its laid-back vibe is contagious, and you’ll soon find yourself in full relaxation mode.
When you’re ready to take a break from the sun, head to The Corso, Manly’s pedestrian street. This area is filled with boutiques, surf shops, and quaint cafés. Do a bit of shopping and pick up some unique souvenirs, cute beachwear, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll. And don’t forget to treat yourself to gelato from Anita Gelato – they have so many delicious flavors to choose from, but my favorite is the salted caramel toffee!
Evening: Dinner at Manly Wharf
Finally, head to Manly Wharf for dinner on the waterfront. The wharf is home to some great dining options – Hugos Manly is a popular choice, known for its pizzas and fresh seafood.
When you’re ready, catch the ferry back to Circular Quay. The nighttime ferry ride offers a magical view of Sydney’s skyline.
Day 7: culture and history
Morning: Museums
Begin your final day of this 7-day Sydney itinerary at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. It has a bit of everything—Australian, European, and Asian art that goes back centuries. Take your time strolling through the galleries, soaking in the famous artworks, and getting a feel for Australia’s artistic heritage.
Alternatively, you could go to Australia’s oldest museum, the Australian Museum, near Hyde Park. It’s packed with cool exhibits on natural history, indigenous cultures, and ancient artifacts. Check out the interactive displays to learn about Australia’s wildlife and rich Aboriginal traditions.
Afternoon: Hyde Park, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and Shopping
Stroll through Hyde Park, Sydney’s green heart, and visit St. Mary’s Cathedral, a stunning Gothic Revival-style church.
As another option, you could swing by the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) for a shopping break. This beautifully restored 19th-century building houses both luxury boutiques and charming shops. Here you can pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts to remember your visit to Sydney.
Evening: Dinner in Chinatown
For a flavorful finale to your seven-day Sydney adventure, head to Chinatown in Haymarket. You’ll find bustling streets filled with authentic Chinese restaurants serving up a range of mouthwatering dishes. From dumplings and seafood to savory stir-fries, Chinatown has something to satisfy every craving.
Summary
This seven-day Sydney itinerary is packed with some of the city’s best sights and experiences. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at Bondi Beach, exploring the historic Rocks district, or dining in Chinatown, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy. I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Sydney!
Are you looking for other destinations to add to your Australia itinerary? Read my 3 Day Adelaide Itinerary for more inspiration!
What’s your favorite Sydney spot? Comment below and let me know!
