15 Tourist hotspots in Sydney that live up to the hype

The vibrant city, of Sydney, is a place for all. It is full of sophisticated spots like the iconic Opera Houses, inviting beaches, and trendy areas like The Rocks and Darling Harbor. The people of Sydney are known for their fashion-forward attire, British-style sarcasm accompanied by an easy-going attitude. The city is positively brimming with dense bush forests. A 2-hour drive north there is a Hunter Valley which is Australia’s oldest wine region, continuously producing delicious wines.

In Sydney you will find some beautiful attractions that you just cannot miss! Places like Do The Sunset Bridge Climb, Hit The Beaches, and Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and many more. Continue reading to know more.

1. Do The Sunset Bridge Climb

First launched in October 1998, the Bridge Climb has welcomed more than four million climbers since the moment of its completion. A great place to enjoy breath-taking views of the city, it offers an unforgettable experience. You can even gain unique insights into the cultural history and the engineering of this world-renowned architectural marvel on your visit.

2. Hit The Beaches

Home to more than 100 beaches, Sydney is almost unparalleled in the entire world in terms of the quality of its beaches. Most of these beaches are located along the city’s Pacific Ocean coastline and are major tourist attractions. Some of the most internationally renowned beaches in the world such as Bondi, Coogee and Manly can all be found in Sydney.

3. Sea Life Sydney Aquarium

With 13000 aquatic animals belonging to 700 species in six million liters of water, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is the largest collection of Australian marine life and one of the largest aquariums in the world. Among the 14 themed zones of the aquarium is the largest Great Barrier Reef exhibit also. So ready to come face to face with sharks, stingrays, penguins and other fishes in their natural dwelling. One of the best features is the Ocean Tunnel walk which makes you walk with the fishes and animals. You can also dive into the aquarium and swim with the sharks.

4. The Blue Mountains

In about the same amount of time it takes for you to finish a movie on your smartphone, you will reach this area’s Katoomba train station. Driving a car would slightly lessen the travel time. Remember of course not to binge watch and drive, needless to say. Regardless of how you get here, you would definitely enjoy a healthy dose of hiking, bushwalking and abseiling activities during your visit. Other things that thrill seekers can try out is ride the Scenic Railway, which is known to be the world’s steepest railway that goes downhill. For those who don’t have nerves of steel, the Scenic Cableway is the more leisurely option which allows riders to take in views of geographic features like The Three Sisters.

5. Darling Harbour

The harbor extends northwards from Chinatown. It stretches both sides of Cockle Bay to the east which is the King Street Wharf 3. It also touches along the suburb of Pyrmont on the west. It has an amazing entertainment, fascinating museums, incredible wildlife. Of course it has delicious dining options right on the water and there is also that brand-new food precinct. A family-friendly destination is what the Darling Harbor is all about.

6. Sydney Tower

At a whopping height of about a thousand feet, this structure is one of the must-see attractions in the city. Located in the Westfield Shopping Centre, this attraction features an observation deck, among other things. Here, you can enjoy a magnificent 360-degree view around the city. You may even spot the Blue Mountains if the weather permits. The deck itself is a venue for many events which range from food festivals to toy exhibitions. Those with nerves of steel could try out The Skywalk. In this part of the building, you get attached to a harness and equipped with a jumpsuit before heading out and walking at the roof of the observation deck. What makes this walk really exciting is the fact that the “floor” you’re walking on is made of transparent glass.

7. Feast Your Eyes At The Art Gallery Of NSW

The museum building’s neoclassical Greek facade and modern rear show how this cultural site equally embraces the old and the new. As you browse through the collections here, you will see that Australian and European art can actually coexist and put on a good show. These artistic creations date back from the 15th century. The 19th century collections, however, are among the gallery’s strongest attractions. Aboriginal and Asian art are also available for those with exotic tastes. Enthusiasts with a more contemporary leaning can watch out for the masterpieces located in the lower floors. The gallery also plays host to lectures, concerts, screenings, celebrity talks and children’s activities.

8. Hyde Park

Covering 350 acres, this place is no pocket park. Trees, a lake, a meadow and ornamental flower gardens adorn this urban refuge. Surprisingly, you don’t have to pay a cent to get in. However, some facilities inside the park do charge rates. The place is so big, you will forget that you are at the heart of one of the world’s busiest cities. Whether you use the park’s biking and walking paths or rent a boat on Serpentine Lake, this place is sure not to disappoint. If you’re feeling rather political, head over to the Speakers’ Corner which has hosted public speeches and debates since the 19th century. After a relaxing moment at this park, cultural hotspots like Buckingham Palace and The National Gallery are just a few minutes away on foot. Harrods and Oxford Street are also nearby for a variety of retail options.

9. Sydney Harbour Bridge

The magnificent bridge on the most admirable natural Sydney harbor is the largest steel bridge in the world. The Sydney Harbor Bridge has an arch based design so it is also called “The Coat hanger”. Imagine Sydney and you will imagine Sydney Harbor Bridge with recognizable Sydney Opera House in the background.

10. Sydney Opera House

Located on Bennelong Point, the building is noted for its distinctive architecture that is easily recognisable (given the proliferation of this design in postcards, posters etc.). A designated UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, this building attracts millions of tourists each year.

11. St Mary’s Cathedral

St Mary’s Cathedral, located in Sydney, was built in dedication to the Immaculate Mother of God. It will sure delight those who are interested in architecture. This is because it is known to be the the largest ecclesiastical building with Gothic style in the whole world.

12. Bondi Beach

The Bondi Beach is known as the world’s most popular beach destination, perfect for those looking to spend their summer vacation. Visitors would surely love the beach as it offers a beautiful view of the sea and fine white sand. Even if it’s not summer, the beach is still a place to visit all year long. It features many bars and shops to hang out on or outdoor activities such as walking or whale watching that visitors would be delighted to do.

13. Chinese Garden Of Friendship

Chinese Garden of Friendship in Sydney truly reflects Chinese culture and heritage. It is not only known for being a symbol of friendship between China and Australia but also because of its serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors should check out the garden which will surely make them feel calm.

14. Bondi To Coogee Coastal Walk

The coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee features stunning views including beaches and parks that offer a place to rest. Along the way, you also see cliffs, bays, and rock pools. There are also cafes, hotels and restaurants which offers dining and takeaways. Although there are some steep gradient paths, generally, the walk is a medium grade urban walk.

15. Explore Sydney Art Galleries

There are loads of art galleries to choose from in this part of Australia. However, the following places are among the best you can visit. If you’re into contemporary art, the hottest scenes are Artspace and Firstdraft. The two galleries are located at Woolloomooloo. Brett Whiteley Studio, on the other hand, contains memorabilia and art of the famous Australian expressionist who passed away at a young age. Campbelltown Arts Centre is the place to be if you’re into artistic collaborations. The Art Gallery of New South Wales, however, is considered to be the city’s premier venue for the arts.