Start your day by visiting two of Sydney's most beautiful outdoor spots. The Royal Botanic Garden is a serene oasis filled with native Australian flora and fauna. Walk around the various themed gardens, including the herbarium, succulent garden, and tropical center. Then, head to the Barangaroo Reserve for a scenic walk by the harbor, with plenty of opportunities to snap photographs of the Sydney skyline.
Escape the city and experience the natural wonders of the Blue Mountains National Park. Admire the dramatic scenery, from the Three Sisters rock formation to the lush rainforest and waterfalls. There are plenty of hiking trails for all levels, and you can also ride the scenic railway or cable car for incredible views. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely meal amidst the stunning backdrop.
Wrap up your trip with a visit to Taronga Zoo, home to over 4,000 animals from Australia and around the globe. Marvel at the majestic elephants, chimpanzees, and big cats, and make sure to catch the daily bird show. Then, take a ferry to Manly Beach, one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Sydney. With its golden sands and clear waters, it's the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or surfing.
The best way to get around Sydney is by public transportation, specifically the train and bus systems that run throughout the city. The Opal card is the most popular way to pay for these modes of transportation, and you can purchase and top up at train stations, convenience stores, or online. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are also available, but they can be more expensive.
Travel Costs: expect to spend $40-$60 on public transportation during your trip (including airport transfers).
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the Hunter Valley wine region, just 2 hours north of Sydney. You can also visit the coastal towns of Bondi or Coogee for a beach day. If you have less time, skip Taronga Zoo or Manly Beach and spend more time exploring other outdoor areas of Sydney, such as Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park or the Sydney Harbour Bridge Walk.
Sydney Airport (SYD) is the main airport in Sydney and is located 8 kilometers south of the city center. It has three terminals, with Terminal 1 serving international flights and Terminals 2 and 3 serving domestic and regional flights. The easiest way to get from the airport to the city is by train, which takes around 15-20 minutes and costs $18.50 for a one-way trip. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, with fares averaging around $45-$55.