10 Awesome Things I Love About Sydney, Australia

People always thought Sydney is the capital of Australia because of its central vibe, well I cannot blame them! Canberra (OZ’s capital) can be elegant but dull and boring if you are into action. Sydney has always been on my bucket list given its stature as one of the most livable cities in the whole world. I am excited to share the ten things I love in Sydney, Australia.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Sydney.

1. Sydney Opera House

This iconic landmark mirrors Australia’s creative and technical achievement. It’s like you’ve never been to Australia if you didn’t see this one. It’s the first tourist spot that I’ve visited after the 15-minute train ride from the airport. You can see quite some tourists everywhere; some even went for the inside tour.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Sydney Opera House.

Travel Jock Tip: If you love the history behind architectural wonders like this, join the free walking tour every day at 10.30 am and 2.30 pm. It will be a 3-hour tour that will showcase the sights and what about it. Of course, you can meet new friends as you go to a group.

Related Article: Looking for affordable accommodation? Check out our Ultimate List of Best Hostels in Australia

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge

Aside from the opera house, Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s popular and most-photographed landmarks. There’s also a “Bridge Climb” that could take you to the top of the bridge where a breathtaking view awaits you. I didn’t get a chance to try it myself because of the freezing-cold winter, but they say it’s one of the must-do’s you shouldn’t miss. Harbour Bridge is also popular on New Year’s Eve; this is where they place the fireworks to kick off the new year.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Travel Jock Tip: Another option, if you want to have a great panoramic shot of Sydney Harbour Bridge, is to visit the Pylon Lookout for just $11 and get picture-perfect views and learn the history of the Bridge.

3. Double-Deck Train

I was so amazed at Sydney’s train system especially the double-decker coach, which brought me to the city in just 15 minutes. One of my favorite thing to do on my travels is to commute and observe the locals in their everyday lives. Sydney boast a good land transport system from these double-decker trains; they also have light rail trains to some downtown areas and of course efficient bus.

Travel Jock Tip: Plan your trip and get an opal card that can be used in all their public transport system so less hassle in buying tickets now and then. Catch also the free CBD shuttle (route 555) runs every 10 minutes on a loop from Central Station to Circular Quay via Elizabeth and George Streets.

4. Saint Mary’s Cathedral

One of the first things I look for during my travels is the churches so I can say a prayer and thank the Lord for the blessing of traveling. I must say, there are beautiful Catholic churches in Australia; one, in particular, is St. Mary’s Cathedral beside Hyde Park.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Hyde Park.

Travel Jock Tip: Walk across the road to check out Hyde Park’s open green space and enjoy the view of people having their picnic or lunch break.

5. Bondi Beach

Pulverized golden sand, surfer waves, and crystal clear waters… Bondi Beach welcomes you all year round to let you experience one (or more!) laid-back Aussie day. I loved my stroll from Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk that offered no-less than spectacular sights. Of course, I should’ve been here in summertime (and promise myself to be back and bring my swimming trunks) but still I enjoy the view in the winter season but fret not if you want to swim as I saw few people who swim, surf and enjoy the waves. There’s also the Iceberg pool club at the side where you can enjoy pool facilities.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Bondi Beach.

Travel Jock Tip: Ride the eastern suburbs line to Bondi Junction then connects with buses to Bondi Beach.

6. Nightlife in Sydney

The Kings Cross is considered the red-light district of Sydney. Since there are reports of violence during the night, I opted to check it in the afternoon. I tried one of the bars near my hostel at Oxford Street, and I loved the multi-cultural crowd, the karaoke night, and late-night fun moments.

Travel Jock Tip: Before checking out the night scene, catch the Sydney opera house and Harbour Bridge at night with lights. It’s also fun to see the themed night lights if a festival or event is happening.

7. Riding the Ferry

Aside from trains, light rails, buses, and cabs, another option for transportation is the ferry. It is very convenient for residents and tourists who want to go to nearby zoos, Harbour Islands, and a theme park (Luna Park) from the business district. Plus, it offers a great view of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Travel Jock Tip: You can also catch a sunset cruise with breathtaking the view. If you can shell out the amount of cash, there are different packages to choose from.

8. University of Sydney

While scouting for schools where I could get a Master’s degree, I fell in love with the University of Sydney. Founded in 1850, Australia’s first university is known to be one of the country’s most prestigious and is ranked as the world’s 27th most reputable university in the world. Also called Sydney Uni or Sydney University prides a Victorian gothic architecture building.

Travel Jock Tip: If you are a museum lover then definitely check out the inside galleries like Nicholson Museum which has a massive collection of artifacts like The Colosseum and Macleay Museum which holds the oldest natural history collection in Australia. Therefore free by the way.

9. Royal Botanic Gardens

With massive parklands, every state of Australia has a Royal Botanic Gardens. One can be found adjacent to the Sydney Opera House. Again, it gives another good angle of the iconic landmark. Walk from the Opera House to Mrs. Macquaire’s Chair for the best vantage point. You may also bring your lunch or wine and relax with the view and serenity of the place.

Travel Jock Tip: Check out also the Art Gallery of New South Wales which is few meters walk from Royal Botanic Gardens. This is Australia’s leading art museums with winning contemporary art collections.

10. Darling Harbour

I enjoyed walking in this large recreational and pedestrian precinct where you could find major public facilities and attractions in Sydney. Lively, interactive, fun, and entertaining that is perfect for the family. Catch Bayside restraints, cafes, and nightlife. Kids will also enjoy the large playground, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, IMAX, Carousel, Powerhouse Museum, Wildlife Sydney Zoo, and more. This is also a shopping haven for everyone because of the numerous shops around. Big Ferris wheel, the Chinese garden, and Madame Tussauds wax museum are also not to miss.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Darling Harbour.

Travel Jock Tip: Darling Harbour is just 10 minutes walk from Sydney Central Business District so just enjoy the walk and get a good view from the Pyrmont Bridge.

About the Writer

TJ Correa. I am working as a program producer in a radio station, but my alter ego “Travel Jock” keeps my feet uncontrollably and wants to explore the world and love freedom and independence. I am currently battling with my heart and mind if I should stay in a stable career with limited vacation leaves or embark on a risky journey of traveling the world with no limits.

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