8-Day Travel Itinerary for Sydney

  • Day 1: The Rocks
    10 minutes (2 km) from Sydney CBD

    The Rocks is a historic neighborhood in the heart of Sydney, located on the southern shore of Sydney Harbor. It features historic sandstone buildings, boutiques, pubs, and restaurants. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour or join a group tour to learn more about the area's history.

  • Day 2: Sydney Opera House
    35 minutes (4 km) from The Rocks

    The Sydney Opera House is one of Australia's most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour, explore the inside of the Opera House, and take in one of the many performances held in its various theaters.

  • Day 3: Bondi Beach
    25 minutes (9 km) from Sydney Opera House

    Bondi Beach is one of Sydney's most famous and popular beaches, known for its beautiful white sand and clear blue water. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, watch surfers ride the waves, and enjoy the many cafes, bars, and shops lining the beach.

  • Day 4: Blue Mountains
    2 hours (100 km) from Bondi Beach

    The Blue Mountains is a beautiful mountain range west of Sydney, known for its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and picturesque towns. Visitors can take the scenic railway, cableway, or skyway, and explore the many attractions, including the Three Sisters rock formation, Katoomba Falls, and Mount Tomah Botanic Garden.

  • Day 5: Darling Harbour
    1 hour (20 km) from Blue Mountains

    Darling Harbour is a vibrant waterfront district, featuring numerous attractions, shops, restaurants, and museums. Visitors can take a stroll along the harbor, check out the Australian National Maritime Museum, the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and the Wild Life Sydney Zoo, or catch a movie at the IMAX theater.

  • Day 6: Taronga Zoo
    15 minutes (6 km) from Darling Harbour

    Taronga Zoo is one of Sydney's most famous and popular attractions, known for its wide variety of Australian and exotic animals, breathtaking views of the harbor, and numerous activities and events. Visitors can take a guided tour, attend animal shows, and enjoy the many dining and shopping options available.

  • Day 7: Royal Botanic Garden
    25 minutes (10 km) from Taronga Zoo

    The Royal Botanic Garden is a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of Sydney, featuring over 7,500 plant species, stunning views of the harbor and Opera House, and numerous walking trails and picnic spots. Visitors can also explore the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the State Library of New South Wales in the adjacent Domain area.

  • Day 8: Chinatown
    20 minutes (4 km) from Royal Botanic Garden

    Chinatown is a vibrant and colorful district in the heart of Sydney, known for its wide variety of Chinese and Asian restaurants, shops, and markets. Visitors can sample authentic Chinese cuisine, explore the many food stalls and shops, and check out the Chinese Garden of Friendship and the Capitol Theatre.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • The Rocks (2-3 hours, free)
  • Sydney Opera House (2-3 hours, AUD 42)
  • Bondi Beach (3-4 hours, free)
  • Blue Mountains (full day, AUD 25-45 for transportation and attractions)
  • Darling Harbour (2-3 hours, free-admission, additional costs for attractions)
  • Taronga Zoo (3-4 hours, AUD 47)
  • Royal Botanic Garden (2-3 hours, free)
  • Chinatown (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: AUD 114-134

Transportation

Travelers can get around Sydney using public transportation, including buses, trains, and ferries. They can purchase an Opal card for easy and convenient access to all modes of transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available at additional costs. Estimated travel costs range from AUD 10-40 per day, depending on the mode of transportation and distance traveled.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other attractions, such as the Sydney Tower Eye, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the iconic Harbour Bridge. If you have less time, prioritize your must-see attractions and plan your itinerary accordingly.

Airports

Sydney Airport (SYD), also known as Kingsford Smith Airport, is located about 8 km south of Sydney CBD. It is the busiest airport in Australia, serving domestic and international flights from various airlines. Visitors can take the Airport Link train, taxis, or ride-sharing services to get to the city center. Estimated travel time is around 20-30 minutes, and costs vary depending on the mode of transportation and destination.

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