Sydney may be famous for its beaches, but there’s actually a whole heap of fun alternative things to do in Sydney that don’t involve getting sand in every backpack you’ve ever owned. Not to mention stuff to do when the temperature is dropping below ten degrees, which coincidentally I did NOT come to Australia for. It’s a hard life. Here’s a pick of my faves;
Free walking tours
This is perfect if you’ve just arrived in Sydney, as a lovely local can show you around some of the famous spots in the city and give you an insight into Sydney’s history. The guides will also give you some pointers with other things to do, including tips on restaurants and transport. The walking tours are free, but it’s common for walkers to give a tip at the end for what you think the tour was worth.
Holey Moley
A mini-golf course inside a bar. This is genius if you ask me. I suggest 9 holes instead of 18 if you’re a lightweight and I think it’s probably illegal to play without a visor.
Luna Park
Luna Park is the big lit-up amusement park you can see from the harbour bridge. The best way to jump on all the rides, including dodgems and the Ferris wheel, is probably with an unlimited or tourist pass. If rides aren’t your thing, there’s plenty of opportunity to win someone a teddy – proven to be the number one way to impress a girl (I think).
Toronga Zoo
Visit some native Australian animals such as koalas and Tasmanian devils, with the backdrop of the opera house and the harbour bridge. Bonus option – stay in safari style tents overnight and take behind the scenes tours with the zoo keepers.
Shopping
Aside from all the standard chain stores, there are loads of unique places to shop in Sydney. Newtown is amazing for vintage finds and boutique stores, while Bondi, Haymarket and Glebe are just a few of the suburbs hosting markets each weekend. It’s Australia, so it’s compulsory to check out the surf shops and invest in some beach wear for when it FINALLY warms up.
Walking
Sydney has heaps of great walks around the city, for when you fancy an easy stroll or a more challenging hike. If you don’t want to travel too far, the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee is an easy, must-do walk. Manly is just a ferry ride away and the starting point of the Manly to Spit walk – it’s fairly flat so not too strenuous, but you’ll definitely deserve a pint after the 10km stretch. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, there are tonnes of hikes in the Royal National Park, which is a short drive out of Sydney or accessible via train/ferry.
Ride a horse around Centennial Park
This has to be the most relaxing way to soak up the views in Centennial Park (waaay better than running). Pop over to the equestrian centre on Lang Road – there are a couple of places where you can borrow a steed for an hour to explore the park.
Escape Rooms
Grab a bunch of mates and get locked inside a room full of clues and objects that can be used to help you escape. You have around 50 minutes, so pick the brainiest friends you can find.
Canyoning in the Blue Mountains
This one might be best saved for summer, but it makes a change from getting smashed by waves at the beach (apparently it’s called surfing). There are a few different companies who are able to guide you, but a good place to start is the Blue Mountains Adventure Company. You can book full days or half days and make it as challenging and adventurous as you like.
Brunch
One of my favourite things about Sydney is that everyone seems to be obsessed with brunch. Whether you’re veggie, vegan, gluten-free or just want a big old fry up, there is bound to be an insta-worthy brunch spot nearby. For even more fabulousness, make it a bottomless brunch. There are loads of deals around for these, but my favourite so far is bottomless Bellinis at The Winery in Surry Hills.
CHECK OUT TOP TEN ESSENTIAL PLACES FOR BACKPACKERS IN SYDNEY
