Sydney Tourist Attractions

There are many fabulous things to see in Sydney - tourist attractions, museums, art galleries, historic landmarks, beautiful parks, breathtaking beaches and more. Our complete guide features interesting articles, pictures and videos to help you choose the sights and destinations you'd like to see during your visit. Each attraction is easy to access by public transport. You'll find verified directions complete with walking directions from the nearest station making it easy to create your own sightseeing tour.

Some of the top places to see in Sydney include the renowned Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Bondi Beach, Government House and more. Fun places for the entire family to visit include the Powerhouse Museum, the Australian National Maritime Museum, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Taronga Zoo, and the Sydney Tower observation deck. Those are just for starters. Browse through all of the Sydney attractions below and discover which ones you don't want to miss.

Parks, Gardens, Beaches and Views

Auburn Botanic GardenAuburn Botanic Garden

Nearest Transport Station: Auburn Station

A little over a half hour on the train followed by a walk of about the same amount of time is well worth the effort to visit this beautiful themed garden. Auburn Botanic Garden features 24 acres of beautiful gardens representing a variety of different themes. In addition to the gardens, you will also be greeted by a variety of indigenous animals as well as an aviary. ..... read more

Bondi BeachBondi Beach

Nearest Transport Station: Bondi Junction

Every visitor to Sydney should be sure to make time in their itinerary to see its most famous beach. Whether you want to enjoy a swim or try your hand at surfing in the turquoise waters, or just feel the warm white sand between your toes as you stroll barefoot along the shore, you are sure to love this spectacular stretch of beach that spans over one kilometre. There are lots of great places to eat adjacent to the beach. ..... read more

Centennial ParkCentennial Park

Nearest Transport Station: Bondi Junction

This large 470 acre park was home to the official inauguration of the Australian Federation in 1901. An extensive network of walking paths will help you discover the parks many features including formal gardens, wetlands and ponds, wooded areas and some historic buildings. .... read more

Chinese Garden of FriendshipChinese Garden of Friendship

Nearest Transport Stations: Exhibition | Museum

You'll enjoy exploring these beautiful gardens located at the northern end of Sydney's Chinatown. Designed by Chinese landscape architects, the gardens are accented by a variety of Chinese sculptures and architectural backdrops. ..... read more

Cockatoo IslandCockatoo Island

Nearest Transport Station: Darling Harbour | Circular Quay

In addition to historic builidings, this UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the middle of Sydney Harbour offers pleasant greenspace, BBQ and picnic facilites, and fantastic views and even overnight glamping. ..... read more

Featherdale Wildlife ParkFeatherdale Wildlife Park

Nearest Transport Stations: Blacktown | Doonside

This wildlife park is one of the top private zoos in the country. Here you will enjoy seeing a wide range of animals and plants that are native to Australia in a very natural setting. ..... read more

Hyde ParkHyde Park

Nearest Transport Stations: Capitol Square | St. James | Museum

With its very central location, you will probably find yourself criss-crossing this historic Sydney park on foot as you make you way to various nearby attractions. The 40 acre park is home to numerous monuments, memorials, a large fountain and themed gardens. ...... read more

Koala Park SanctuaryKoala Park Sanctuary

Nearest Transport Station: Pennant Hills

You'll thoroughly enjoy seeing and capturing some great photographs of these cuddly looking critters in their natural surroundings at this Sanctuary that played an important role in helping preserve the species. ..... read more

Lane Cove National Parkane Cove National ParkLane Cove National Park

Nearest Transport Station: Chatswood

If you want to experience a genuine Australian wilderness area you should come and explore this 1500 acre park that straddles a long section of ravine. This rugged wilderness is a world apart from the suburbs that border it along both sides and it is a great place to view and photograph some of the abundant wildlife that resides within its boundaries. ..... read more

Manly Beach and the Manly Scenic WalkwayManly Beach and the Manly Scenic Walkway

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

A fun and scenic ride on the public ferry from Circular Quay, Manly Beach is a great place to spend a day. There is much more than just the fabulous beach here; there is shopping and dining galore and additional attractions including a Sea Life Sanctuary, museum and art gallery. If you enjoy walking or hiking and come prepared you can easily spend the best part of a day making your way along the Manly Scenic Walkway. ..... read more

Observatory ParkObservatory Park

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

This park is located on a historical site on top of a hill that overlooks the Sydney Harbour. It is a great place to go to enjoy some first rate views and while you are there you can also check out the historical Sydney Observatory which dates back to the mid 1800s. ..... read more

Sydney Olympic ParkOlympic Park

Nearest Transport Stations: Olympic Park | Olympic Park Wharf

This huge park is Sydney's legacy from the 2000 summer Olympics. Covering 1060 acres, the park contains many facilities and features a wide range of events and activities throughout the year; many of them free. It also features walking trails, playgrounds and has some lookouts and views. ..... read more

Parramatta Park and Old Government HouseParramatta Park and Old Government House

Nearest Transport Station: Parramatta Station

Home to the oldest remaining public building on the continent, Parramatta Park is a World Heritage Site. The 260 acre park is also very scenic making it a great place for a break from the city. ..... read more

Royal Botanic GardensRoyal Botanic Gardens

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

The result of almost two centuries of work dedicated to the study of botany, these renowned Sydney Gardens are a definite must-see during your visit to the city. Their premier location makes them hard to miss. The Gardens are also home to the magnificent Government House. The views are awesome as well. ..... read more

Sydney Harbour Bridge and Pylon LookoutSydney Harbour Bridge and Pylon Lookout

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

You can enjoy some great views of the harbour just by walking across this iconic Sydney bridge, but for even better views, a small fee will give you access to the southeast pylon lookout from where you will enjoy a vantage point that is 285 feet above the water. ..... read more

Sydney TowerSydney Tower

Nearest Transport Stations: Capitol Square | St. James | Town Hall

For the ultimate view of a city, the logical place to head is to the highest point. In Sydney that would be the Sydney Tower which is the 2nd tallest such tower in the southern hemisphere. ..... read more

Watsons BayWatsons Bay and Sydney Harbour National Park

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Watsons Bay, with coastal walks that display stunning views both of the Gap and South Head, sits on the harbour side of the tip of the South Head peninsula, separating the Tasman Sea from Sydney Harbour. ..... read more

Landmarks and Architecture

Central Railway StationCentral Station

Nearest Transport Stations: Central Station

Like many major cities, the Central transportation hub often features a building of considerable grandeur. Sydney is no exception with its impressive Central Station built in 1906 from sandstone blocks and toped with a clock tower. ..... read more

Customs HouseCustoms House

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

This must see building started out with two stories in 1845 with the additional stories being added in later years. Featuring Georgian design and sandstone construction this historic building has some neat surprises for you inside. ..... read more

Fort DenisonFort Denison

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Located on a small island in the harbour this historic site is operated by the NSW Parks and Wildlife Service. You can learn about the intriguing history of this Sydney landmark with a tour of its museum. ...... read more

Garrison ChurchGarrison Church

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Construction of this beautiful historic church began in 1840. It came to be commonly known as the Garrison Church as a result of the many regiments that attended from the nearby Garrison at Dawes Point Battery. ..... read more

Government HouseGovernment House

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Adjacent to Sydney Opera House and adjoining the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, Government House is a small castle of gothic revival architecture designed by the same architect that was involved in the design of Buckingham palace in London. It is the official residence of the Governer General. ..... read more

Hyde Park BarracksHyde Park Barracks

Nearest Transport Station: Capitol Square | St. James

This historic building located just outside of Hyde Park now serves as a museum about its own history which dates all the way back to 1819. ..... read more

Old Government HouseOld Government House

Nearest Transport Station: Parramatta Station

Situated inside the beautiful 260 acre Parramatta Park, Old Government House is the oldest remaining public building on the continent. Access is available for a small fee from Tuesday through Sunday or you can enjoy a meal at Lachlan's Restaurant located inside. ..... read more

Parliament HouseParliament House

Nearest Transport Station: Martin Place

This colonial building features Georgian architecture and has served a variety of functions starting early in the 19th century. Today it houses the parliamentary chambers of the government of New South Wales. Noon hour tours of the inside are available on the first Thursday of each month when Parliament isn't in session. ..... read more

Queen Victoria Building Queen Victoria Building

Nearest Transport Stations: Capitol Square | Town Hall | St. James

This remarkbable Sydney shopping centre was built during a deep recession at the end of the 19th century. Featuring Romanesque architecture topped with a magnificent centre dome it is perhaps the most architecturally beautiful shopping centres in the world. ...... read more

Saint Andrew's CathedralSaint Andrew's Cathedral

Nearest Transport Stations: Capital Square | Town Hall

Located just south of Sydney's Town Hall, this grand cathedral first opened its doors in 1868. It boasts Gothic Revival architecture, expansive stained glass windows and The largest pipe organ in Australia. ..... read more

St. Mary's CathedralSaint Mary's Cathedral

Nearest Transport Station: St. James Station

Completed over a period of many years, this majestic Sydney landmark also features Gothic Revival Architecture. It is the largest cathedral in the nation. ..... read more

State TheatreState Theatre

Nearest Transport Stations: Capital Square | St. James | Town Hall

Even if you don't get the opportunity to attend a show at the Sydney's famous State Theatre, you can still take a 2 hour guided tour and witness opulent interior of this magnificent theatre first hand. ..... read more

Sydney Harbour BridgeSydney Harbour Bridge

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Visiting Sydney, you simply cannot miss seeing the Sydney Harbour Bridge which is definitely one of the city's most internationally recognized landmarks. To learn more about the history of this bridge and enjoy some fabulous views of the city you may want to checkout the exhibits inside its southeast pylon. ..... read more

Sydney ObservatorySydney Observatory

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Check out the historical Sydney Observatory which dates back to the mid 1800s. You can explore this most interesting historical site for free, or for a small charge you can also have access to the observatory towers and a 3D space movie. You will enjoy some great views of Sydney from the hilltop location. ..... read more

Sydney Opera HouseSydney Opera House

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

When it comes to choosing what to see in Sydney, no introduction is needed for the most iconic Sydney landmark of all, however, delving deeper into the fascinating design concepts and the history of its making will give you an even greater appreciation for this remarkable structure. ..... read more

Sydney Town HallSydney Town Hall

Nearest Transport Stations: Town Hall | St. James Station | Capitol Square

Sydney Town Hall has been home to Sydney's civic government since it's completion in the late 1800s. The hall has many notorious features including its clock tower and also the incredible and massive pipe organ located within its Centennial Hall. ..... read more

Sydney TowerSydney Tower

Nearest Transport Stations: Capitol Square | St. James | Town Hall

This 1014 foot tall tower located in the CBD is the 2nd tallest such tower in the southern hemisphere. An iconic landmark, it is visible from many different vantage points throughout the city. At the top of the tower you will find two observation decks and two revolving restaurants, all offering spectacular views of the city. ..... read more

University of SydneyUniversity of Sydney

Nearest Transport Stations: Central Station | Town Hall | Circular Quay

If you love architecture and older buildings, you will definitely want to spend some time exploring the grounds of the University of Sydney, especially the Neogothic Quadrangle and the Great Tower buildings which were completed back in 1862. ..... read more

Vaucluse HouseVaucluse House

Nearest Transport Stations: Circular Quay | Martin Place | St. James Station

This historic 19th century house and estate are located about a half hour bus ride from the Central Business District, a pleasant escape from the bustle of the city. ..... read more

Theatre, Sports and Entertainment Venues

Capitol TheatreCapitol Theatre

Nearest Transport Stations: Capitol Square | Capitol Square

Saved from demolition in the 1970's, this heritage theatre hosts a variety of great performances. It has a capacity for over 2000 patrons and a large Orchestra Pit. ..... read more

Sydney Olympic ParkOlympic Park

Nearest Transport Stations: Olympic Park | Olympic Park Wharf

This huge park is Sydney's legacy from the 2000 summer Olympics. Covering 1060 acres, the park contains many sports venues and features a wide range of events and activities including films and concerts throughout the year; many of them are free. . ..... read more

The Star Casino and Lyric TheatreThe Star Casino and Lyric Theatre

Nearest Transport Station: The Star

The Star Casino is a large entertainment complex located on the western side of Darling Harbour. It is the 2nd largest casino in Australia. The Lyric Theatre hosts live shows for up to 4000 patrons. The complex also offers a wide range of dining options and shopping too. ..... read more

State TheatreState Theatre

Nearest Transport Stations: Capital Square | St. James | Town Hall

This impressive historic theatre boasts a beautiful auditorium with seating for 2000 guests and it still features the original Wurlitzer Organ that accompanied the early silent movies. ..... read more

Sydney Football StadiumSydney Football Stadium

Nearest Transport Station: Central Station | Museum Station

The Sydney Football Stadium, formerly the Sydney Football Stadium, located in Moore Park, is home to both National and Regional rugby and soccer teams. With seating for up to 45,000 fans it is also a popular venue for some of the big name concerts that come to town..... read more

Sydney IMAX TheatreSydney IMAX Theatre

Nearest Transport Stations: Convention | Town Hall

Sydney's IMAX Theatre boasts the largest movie screen on the planet! Combine that with a full selection of 2D and 3D IMAX movies and powerful surround sound and you get a movie experience unlike any other. ..... read more

Sydney Opera HouseSydney Opera House

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

This iconic Sydney venue actually houses a total of 7 venues under its unique roofs; 2 large venues and 5 smaller ones. The Sydney Opera House is home to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Opera Australia and the Australia Ballet. ..... read more

Sydney Town HallSydney Town Hall

Nearest Transport Stations: Town Hall | St. James Station | Capitol Square

Sydney Town Hall is not only home to Sydney's government chambers and civic offices, it also hosts a variety of exhibitions and entertainment events throughout the year. One of the venues inside is Centennial Hall which is well known for its huge historical pipe organ. ..... read more

Wharf TheatreWharf Theatre

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Operated by the Sydney Theatre Company, the Wharf Theatre actually consists of two compact theatres located on a pier that extends out into Welsh Bay near the Sydney Harbour Bridge. ..... read more

Museums, Galleries and Science

Art Gallery of New South WalesArt Gallery of New South Wales

Nearest Transport Stations: St. James | Martin Place

The grand entrance to this gallery of international and Australian art hints at the incredible collection of works that you will discover once inside. Not only are the works of art displayed large well lit galleries, but there are also some expansive windows inside that provide great views of the city. . ..... read more

Madame Tussauds Wax MuseumMadame Tussauds Wax Museum

Nearest Transport Stations: Pyrmont Bay | Town Hall | Wynyard

Madame Tussauds is famous around the world for its huge collection of amazing life-like wax replicas of renowned individuals from around the world. These are still painstakingly created by skilled artists using techniques that have been passed down for over 200 years. ..... read more

Museum of Contemporary ArtMuseum of Contemporary Art

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

If you love exploring the latest forms of art then you will definitely enjoy visiting the Sydney Museum of Contemporary Art. You will not only see some of the newest creations; the collection showcases a range of art going back about 40 years. ..... read more

Australian MuseumAustralian Museum

Nearest Transport Stations: St. James | Town Hall | Museum

This museum, the first museum in Australia, will immerse you in the world of natural history and culture. The Australian Museum is within easy walking distance of three different City Rail Stations. ..... read more

Australian National Maritime MuseumAustralian National Maritime Museum

Nearest Transport Stations: Pyrmont Bay | Town Hall

The whole family will enjoy getting up close to the boats, ships and other fascinating exhibits on display at the Australian National Maritime Museum located on the west side of Darling Harbour. ..... read more

Fort DenisonFort Denison

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Located on a small island in the harbour this historic site is operated by the NSW Parks and Wildlife Service. You can learn about the intriguing history of this Sydney landmark with a tour of its museum. ...... read more

Museum of SydneyJustice and Police Museum

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

At the Justice and Police Museum, you will be able to examine the history of law, crime and policing in New South Wales. The museum also houses a vast ..... read more

Museum of SydneyMuseum of Sydney

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

When in Sydney, it is only natural that you might want to learn more about the history of this modern metropolis. There is no better place for this than the Museum of Sydney where you will learn many interesting facts going back to the the first days of the British Colony and beyond. ..... read more

Hyde Park BarracksHyde Park Barracks

Nearest Transport Station: Capitol Square | St. James

This historic building located just outside of Hyde Park serves as a museum about its own history which dates all the way back to 1819. ..... read more

Powerhouse MuseumPowerhouse Museum

Nearest Transport Station: Exhibition Stop | Central Station

This is a fun museum with a huge collection of items pertaining to history, design, science, technology, music, industry, transport, decorative arts and space exploration. A number of demonstations, workshops and hands-on exhibits, make this museum a great choice for visitors of all ages. ..... read more

Sydney ObservatorySydney Observatory

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Construction of the Sydney Observatory took place from 1857 to 1859. It is strategically located on the highest ground overlooking Sydney Harbour. The first purpose of the Observatory was to keep accurate track of. ..... read more

University of SydneyUniversity of Sydney

Nearest Transport Stations: Central Station | Town Hall | Circular Quay

The University of Sydney is the oldest University in Australia. It features two excellent museums; the Nicholson Museum of Antiquities and the Macleay Museum as well as the impressive University Art Gallery. ..... read more

Historic Districts and Markets

ChelseaChinatown

Nearest Transport Station: Haymarket | Central Station

Each end of the street welcomes you with an ornate Chinese gateway called a Paifang. You will find a variety of authentic Chinese restaurants along with numerous shops selling everything from ..... read more

Darling HarbourDarling Harbour

Nearest Transport Station: Harbourside | Pyrmont Bay | Town Hall | Wynyard Station

Revived from a derelict railroad marshalling and freight yard, Darling Harbour has been transformed into a vibrant, pedestrian friendly part of the city. It is home to numerous major tourist attractions and features many public events. ..... read more

The RocksThe Rocks

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Every city has its beginnings, and for Sydney and indeed for the colonization of Australia, that beginning happened right here in The Rocks. Today this historic district is an interesting place to explore with boutique shops, cafes, pubs, museums and galleries galore in the many old buildings that have managed to survive through the years. ...... read more

Cockatoo IslandCockatoo Island

Nearest Transport Station: Darling Harbour | Circular Quay

A brief 10 minute ferry ride from Darling Harbour or just over 20 minutes from Circular Quay is historic Cockatoo Island, a World Heritage Site that offers many fun activities and interesting places to poke around and explore. ..... read more

Paddy's MarketPaddy's Market

Nearest Transport Stations: Paddy's Markets | Central Station

Located in the basement area of Market City at the southern end of Chinatown, Paddy's Market is know a a great place to find a bargain from one of the many vendors that set up stalls there. ...... read more

Paddington MarketPaddington Market

Nearest Transport Stations: Central Station | Circular Quay

This longstanding outdoor market place (not to be confused with Paddy's Market above) is open from 10am every Saturday. Venders in as many as 250 stalls market their unique Australian goods while buskers entertain with live music. ..... read more

Pitt Street MallPitt Street Mall

Nearest Transport Stations: Capitol Square | St. James |Town Hall

One of the trendiest and busiest shopping districts in Australia, Pitt Street Mall lines each side of a pedestrian only portion of Pitt Street in Sydney's Central Business District. If you love to shop this is paradise. ..... read more

Zoos Aquariums and Theme Parks

Featherdale Wildlife ParkFeatherdale Wildlife Park

Nearest Transport Stations: Blacktown | Doonside

This wildlife park is one of the top private zoos in the country. Here you will enjoy seeing a wide range of animals and plants that are native to Australia in a very natural setting. ..... read more

Koala Park SanctuaryKoala Park Sanctuary

Nearest Transport Station: Pennant Hills

You'll thoroughly enjoy seeing and capturing some great photographs of these cuddly looking critters in their natural surroundings at this Sanctuary that played an important role in helping preserve the species. ..... read more

Sydney AquariumSEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Nearest Transport Stations: Pyrmont Bay | Town Hall | Wynyard Station

This outstanding aquarium, located on the edge of Darling Harbour, is one of the largest in the world. Besides the many exhibits in the main building you can also witness the world's largest captive shark population in the two huge oceanariums that float inside the harbour ..... read more

Taronga ZooTaronga Zoo

Nearest Transport Station: Circular Quay

Arguably one of the world's most beautiful urban zoos, the Taronga Zoo focuses on conservation and creating a natural environment for the more than 340 species that they care for. A great place to spend a day, the zoo has BBQ and picnic facilities available as well. ..... read more

Wild Life SydneyWILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

Nearest Transport Stations: Pyrmont Bay | Town Hall | Wynyard

The WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo is located on Darling Harbour right next to the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium listed above and combination passes are available. The focus is on wildlife that is indigenous to Australia. In 2007 they won the Australian Tourism awared for the best family focused tourism. ..... read more

Luna Park at nightLuna Park

Nearest Transport Stations: Circular Quay to Milsons Point

Luna Park is an amusement Park situated at Milsons Point, on the North Shore of the beautiful Sydney Harbour. This fun and exciting amusement park first opened October 4th 1935 and ..... read more

Some of the above photos are made available under a Creative Commons license. Photo Credits can be viewed on the detail page for each attraction.

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