Sydney is so much more than its ‘coathanger’ bridge, opera house and high-rise buildings. The charm of the harbour side lies in its unique neighbourhoods and suburbs, each with their own sense of character and personality. Whatever your interests are, there’s a Sydney to suit. We’ve put together four mini-itineraries to cut a trip here depending on your personality type or mood. All you have to do is find your flight and pick your style: carefree, down to earth, high flyer, or mindful traveller.
Carefree: experience coastal bliss in Manly
Start your day by giving your legs a good workout on The Spit to Manly Walk – a gorgeous 10km hike that winds around the northern side of the harbour. Keep cool by taking breaks at one of the many swimming spots on the walk, such as the hidden Castle Rock – a favourite amongst locals. For a walk that’s less robust, take a stroll from Manly’s Corso down to Shelly Beach where you can enjoy a classic Aussie brunch at the marine-themed cafe, The Boathouse – the raw green veggie bowl with poached eggs, avocado and smoked salmon is to die for. Shelly Beach is also home to the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve – a snorkeller’s heaven. There’s plenty of sea-life to be spotted, including the endangered Blue Groper, a large bright blue fish. Recover from a long day of exploring by the sea with a visit to Fika Swedish Kitchen, an authentic Scandinavian cafe, that serves delectable Insta-famous muffins from Manly local, butterboybake.
Down-to-earth: head (Inner) West
The Inner West is the cultural hub of Sydney that’s stuffed with quirky spots perfect for the down-to-earth kinds. Grab brekky at Brewtown, a cafe famous for its mouth-watering cronuts. Next, walk through the streets of Newtown where you’ll find numerous vintage stores and head over to the dog-friendly Vic on the Park pub to shoot hoops over a few beers. Finish the day like a true local by grabbing dinner at Lentil as Anything – a bustling vegetarian restaurant in a quirky space with local art. The much-loved restaurant is not-for-profit and works on a “pay as you feel” principle. Another option, equally as local, is to grab one of the best burgers in town at Mary’s. End your night on a high by checking out a band or a stand-up show at Enmore Theatre or Factory Theatre in nearby Marrickville.
High flyer: shop up a storm in the CBD
For those wanting to splurge on a high-end Sydney experience, head to the prestigious Queen Victoria Building, which is home to fashion labels like Camilla and Karen Millen. Rest your feet after a day’s shopping in the streets of Barangaroo – Sydney’s new food scene. Feel the celebrity vibe of the fresh dining concepts from some of Australia’s most-loved food talents, including Chef Brent Savage and Sommelier Nick Hildebrandt. We recommend splurging on a delicious lunch at Cirrus, Lotus or Anason. Top it all off by treating yourself with a 5-star hotel stay for an all-time, luxury experience. Our top choices include the Shangri-La Hotel, Qt Sydney, and Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney, all of which offer incredible harbour views.
Mindful: Eastern suburbs
If finding and maintaining zen is a priority for you, veer out to Sydney’s East where you’ll feel right at home with yogis and outdoor lovers. Kickstart your day by taking part in an outdoor yoga class overlooking the ocean at Bondi Icebergs or give aerial yoga a go at Beach Flow Bondi. Recoup after your workout with a healthy bite to eat at one of the many sustainable and organic cafes, like local institution Three Blue Ducks, or other favourites Orchard Street and Bondi Wholefoods. Round out the afternoon by heading to Nielsen Park for a high tea at Vaucluse House, one of Sydney’s few 19th-century mansions, surrounded by its original gardens and wooded grounds.
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