10-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Sydney

Day 1: Exploring the Harbour

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Rocks

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Rocks café, enjoying a classic Aussie brekkie while soaking up views of the Harbour Bridge.
Stroll around the historic precinct to explore local markets.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sydney Opera House

Take a walk to the iconic Sydney Opera House and snap some photos; feel free to join a free guided tour if available.
Walking distance from The Rocks.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Royal Botanic Garden

Wander through the stunning Royal Botanic Garden, enjoying the lush landscapes and scenic views of the harbour.
A short trail from the Opera House.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Food Market

Grab some inexpensive, delicious street food at a food market such as the Sydney Fish Market.
Take a bus or ferry to the Fish Market.
AUD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Darling Harbour

Stroll around Darling Harbour, where you can enjoy the vibe, visit local attractions, or simply relax by the waterfront.
Take a short walk from the Fish Market.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Budget Eatery

End your day with a filling meal at a budget eatery, such as 'The Little Snail', for a delicious pasta dish.
Easily accessible by public transport from Darling Harbour.
AUD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art and Culture

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bourke Street Bakery

Indulge in a pastry and coffee at Bourke Street Bakery, a local favourite for freshly baked goods.
Take a bus or train to Surry Hills.
AUD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Enjoy a free visit to the Art Gallery of NSW, which features both Australian and international art.
A short bus ride from the bakery.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hyde Park

Pack a picnic or grab something from a nearby café and enjoy lunch in the tranquil surroundings of Hyde Park.
Walking distance from the Art Gallery.
AUD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

The Domain

Take a leisurely walk through The Domain and enjoy the beautiful gardens, often with events or performances.
Walk straight through from Hyde Park.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the NSW State Library

Explore the historic architecture and free exhibitions at the State Library of New South Wales.
Head back via public transport.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Spice I Am

Finish your day with a delicious Thai meal at Spice I Am, known for its tasty and affordable dishes.
Short bus ride or walk from the library.
AUD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Local Beaches

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a breakfast at a nearby café like The Paper Mill, popular for its brunch options.
Conveniently located in your area.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bondi to Coogee Walk

Take the bus to Bondi Beach and embark on the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, which offers stunning ocean views.
Catch a bus from your accommodation to Bondi.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Coogee Beach

Once you reach Coogee, enjoy lunch at a beachside café, such as Coogee Pavilion, with great views.
Walking distance from Coogee Beach.
AUD18, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at Coogee Beach

Spend some time relaxing on the beaches of Coogee, swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying beach games.
Free access to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Sydney

Catch a bus back to Sydney, allowing a chance to rest after your beach day.
Easily accessible from bus stops near Coogee.
AUD4, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

Enjoy a fresh seafood meal at The Sydney Fish Market, where you can find various options at reasonable prices.
Take a bus to the Fish Market.
AUD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains, Australia

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Accommodation

Grab a quick breakfast from your accommodation before heading out.
Prepare for an early start to your Blue Mountains adventure.
AUD8, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Train to Katoomba

Catch a train from Central Station to Katoomba, the gateway to the Blue Mountains.
Check current train schedules for convenience.
AUD10, 2 hours

10:00AM

Echo Point Lookout

Arrive in Katoomba and make your way to Echo Point for breathtaking views of the Three Sisters.
Walk to Echo Point, approximately 30 minutes from the station.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Bushwalking in Blue Mountains National Park

Explore various walking trails in the National Park, immersing yourself in nature’s beauty.
Choose well-marked trails from Echo Point.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack a small picnic lunch to enjoy outdoors amidst the gorgeous scenery.
Purchase ingredients in advance or from local shops.
AUD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Scenic World

Experience unique views of the Blue Mountains with a ride on the Scenic Railway or Cableway (entry fee applies).
Head back towards Katoomba’s town.
AUD40, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return Train to Sydney

Catch a train back to Sydney after an adventurous day.
Check return train schedules as you plan to leave.
AUD10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Pizzeria

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria like 'Pizza Organic' back in Sydney for a relaxed end to the day.
Conveniently close to your accommodation.
AUD18, 1 hour
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Day 5: Cultural Immersion

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at A Cafe

Start your day with breakfast at 'Café Sydney' offering delightful brunch specials with a view of the Harbour.
Easy to get to using public transport.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Museum of Contemporary Art

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, where you can enjoy free exhibitions of stunning local and international art.
Walking distance from Café Sydney.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Exploring Barangaroo Reserve

Take a leisurely stroll through Barangaroo Reserve, a beautiful waterfront park showcasing native Australian flora.
Short walk from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Barangaroo

Grab lunch from one of the many food vendors at Barangaroo, with plenty of budget-friendly options.
Choose from a variety of vendors along the waterfront.
AUD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Old Customs House

Visit the historic Old Customs House; check for free exhibitions that might be on display.
Take a short bus or walk from Barangaroo.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Scenic Ferry Ride

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the harbour, allowing beautiful views of Sydney’s skyline.
Catch the ferry from Circular Quay.
AUD7, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Rosy’s

Finish your day on a budget with a filling meal at Rosy’s, known for its affordable and tasty dishes.
Return to your accommodation area afterwards.
AUD18, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxation and Nature

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chiswick

Enjoy a fresh and healthy breakfast at Chiswick in Rushcutters Bay, famed for its produce.
Take the bus or a short walk from your accommodation.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Taronga Zoo

Take a ferry to Taronga Zoo for a day filled with wildlife encounters (entry fee applies).
Ferry ride across the harbour to the zoo.
AUD47, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the Zoo

Grab lunch at one of the zoo's cafés, enjoying views of the city and animals.
Conveniently located within the zoo.
AUD19, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Taronga Zoo

Spend the afternoon exploring various exhibits and learning about the local wildlife.
Follow the zoo's map for efficient navigation.
Free with entry fee, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return Ferry to Circular Quay

Take a ferry back to Circular Quay, enjoying the gorgeous views on your way.
Ferries depart frequently.
Free with entry fee, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Pub

Choose a local pub for dinner, such as the 'Lowenbrau Keller', known for its generous portions and good prices.
Easily accessible from Circular Quay.
AUD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Beach Day at Manly

Manly Beach, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Manly

Buckwheat pancakes or an acai bowl await you at a local café along Manly Beach.
Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Beach.
AUD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Relax on Manly Beach

Spend the morning soaking up the sun or swimming in the waves at the picturesque Manly Beach.
Free access to the beach.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Manly Corso

Take your pick from the many casual eateries at the Manly Corso, with great budget options.
Just a short walk from the beach.
AUD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Walk Along the Coastal Path

Explore the scenic Coastal Path, offering stunning views of the coastline and opportunities for wonderful photos.
Take a walk from Manly Beach towards Shelly Beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return Ferry to Sydney

Catch the ferry back to the city, enjoying the views of the Sydney Harbour.
Ferries run regularly throughout the day.
AUD10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Grounds

Wrap up your day with a meal at The Grounds, a hit for its atmosphere and affordable menu.
Easy access from the ferry station.
AUD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Adventure and Shopping

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Savour breakfast at a helpful café in the CBD before beginning a busy day.
Conveniently located for morning visitors.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Paddington Markets

Shop for local crafts and food at Paddington Markets on Saturdays, an exciting local experience.
Take the bus to Paddington.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch in Paddington

Grab lunch from any of the local food stalls or cafés in Paddington.
Various options are available.
AUD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Sydney Tower Eye

Head to the Sydney Tower Eye for a fantastic view over the city (entry fee applies).
Public transport option available to the CBD.
AUD28, 1 hour

3:00PM

Walk at Darling Harbour

Return to Darling Harbour for some more relaxing time by the waterfront.
A short bus ride away.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at a Local Fast Food Joint

Finish up with a budget-friendly dinner at a local favourite fast food chain, such as Grill'd.
Conveniently located near Darling Harbour.
AUD15, 1 hour
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Day 9: Beaches and Relaxation

Bondi Beach, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Icebergs

Enjoy breakfast by the Bondi Beach at Icebergs, offering sea views as you dine.
Take public transport to Bondi.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bondi Markets

Wander through Bondi Markets, where you can find local crafts and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
A short walk from Icebergs.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Relax on Bondi Beach

Spend the rest of the morning relaxing on Bondi Beach, sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the surroundings.
Free access to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bondi Beach

Grab lunch from a food stall or café along the beachfront.
Conveniently located nearby.
AUD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Coastal Walk from Bondi to Bronte

Embark on a scenic coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte Beach, enjoying the picturesque views.
Pathway connects the two beaches.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Beachside Café

End your day with a relaxing dinner at a beachside café, enjoying fresh seafood.
At Bronte Beach.
AUD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Final Day in Sydney

Sydney, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Flour and Stone

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Flour and Stone, known for its incredible pastries and coffee.
Easily accessible by public transport.
AUD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit a Cultural Market

Experience a cultural market like Wentworth Park on weekends, showcasing local crafts and foods.
Take a train or bus to the location of the market.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Last Lunch at Central Station

Enjoy a final taste of Sydney with lunch at a food court nearby Central Station.
Just a short walk from the train station.
AUD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Pack and Relax

Spend your last hours relaxing and packing at your accommodation before departure.
At your lodging facility.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Final Farewell Dinner

Have a farewell dinner at a local diner, reminiscing about your amazing Sydney experience.
Choose a local spot near your accommodation.
AUD20, 1.5 hours
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