Comprehensive 21-Day Sydney Itinerary: Explore the Best of Australia’s Iconic City

Day 1: Iconic Sydney Sights

Sydney, Australia on August 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Grounds of Alexandria

Enjoy a delicious, rustic breakfast at this famed café known for fresh market produce and beautiful garden setting. Opens 7:00am.
AUD25, 1h

9:30am

Sydney Opera House Tour

Explore one of the world’s most iconic buildings with a guided tour that reveals its history and architecture. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
AUD42, 1h

11:00am

Walk Circular Quay and Royal Botanic Garden

Stroll along Circular Quay to see beautiful harbour views then relax or wander the lush Royal Botanic Garden next to the harbour.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Opera Bar

Dine with outstanding views of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House while enjoying fresh seafood and casual fare. Open 11:30am-10pm.
AUD45, 1h

2:30pm

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the top of the bridge on this guided climb adventure. Multiple climbs daily until sunset.
AUD308, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Quay Restaurant

Indulge in fine dining with spectacular views of the harbour, renowned for modern Australian cuisine. Reservations recommended.
AUD150, 2h

Day 2: Northern Beaches Escape

Sydney, Australia on August 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Manly Wharf Hotel

Enjoy waterside breakfast at this popular waterfront venue in Manly Beach. Opens from 7:00am.
AUD30, 1h

9:00am

Manly Ferry to Circular Quay

Take the scenic 30-minute ferry ride from Manly to Circular Quay with stunning views of Sydney Harbour. Regular services from 6:00am.
AUD15, 30m

10:00am

Explore Manly Beach and Walk to Shelly Beach

Relax at Manly Beach and take a short coastal walk to the sheltered Shelly Beach popular for snorkeling.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Boathouse Shelly Beach

Dine beachfront with fresh seafood and casual meals in a relaxed tropical beachside atmosphere.
AUD40, 1h

2:00pm

Visit North Head Sanctuary

Hike Baldwin’s Head trail with excellent views over the ocean and city skyline. Open daylight hours.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Hugo’s Manly

Enjoy Italian cuisine with waterfront views, a perfect spot to watch the sunset and evening harbour lights.
AUD60, 2h

Day 3: Blue Mountains Adventure

Katoomba, Australia on August 13, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at Leura Cafe

Start early with a hearty breakfast at this charming cafe in Leura village before heading into the mountains.
AUD25, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Blue Mountains

Drive or take the train to Katoomba, the gateway to Blue Mountains National Park, approximately 2 hours from Sydney.
AUD15, 2h

10:30am

Scenic World – Skyway & Walks

Ride the Scenic Skyway for panoramic views, take the Scenic Railway and boardwalk through ancient rainforest. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
AUD49, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Yellow Deli

Enjoy wholesome, fresh food with a cozy rustic vibe in this Blue Mountains local favorite.
AUD35, 1h

3:30pm

Echo Point Lookout & Three Sisters Walk

Visit the famous Three Sisters rock formation and stroll through scenic trails with breathtaking views.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at Darley’s Restaurant

Dine at this elegant spot in historic Leura with gourmet contemporary cuisine focused on native ingredients.
AUD85, 2h

Day 4: Sydney Coastal Walks

Sydney, Australia on August 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bills, Bondi

Enjoy a light but delicious breakfast famous for ricotta hotcakes and fresh juices. Open 7:00am-4:00pm.
AUD30, 1h

8:30am

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Scenic 6km coastal walk passing beaches, cliffs, parks, and historic sites. Best done early to avoid crowds. Open public access.
Free, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Coogee Pavilion

Beachfront dining with diverse menu options in a casual, stylish atmosphere. Open 12:00pm-9:00pm.
AUD40, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at Coogee Beach

Swim or sunbathe at this popular relaxed beach perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Sydney CBD

Travel back to central Sydney to prepare for evening activities.
AUD12, 30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mr. Wong

Savour contemporary Cantonese cuisine in an elegant two-level venue downtown. Book ahead for popular times.
AUD90, 2h

Day 5: Culture & Museums

Sydney, Australia on August 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kaffeine, Surry Hills

Enjoy specialty coffee and hearty breakfast options in this stylish coffeehouse. Opens 7:00am.
AUD20, 1h

9:30am

Art Gallery of NSW Visit

Explore extensive collections of Australian and international art in a beautiful setting. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Tea Room QVB

Lunch in a stunning heritage building with courtyard views and refined sandwiches and teas.
AUD35, 1h

1:30pm

Australian Museum

Discover natural history and indigenous culture exhibitions with insightful displays. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
AUD15, 2h

4:00pm

Walk through Hyde Park

Relax and stroll through Sydney's oldest park filled with fountains and fig trees.
Free, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Bennelong Restaurant

Fine dining inside the Opera House with emphasis on Australian flavors and stunning harbor views.
AUD140, 2h